Unlocking Leadership Potential: How to Reclaim Your Time for Greater Impact (Part 2)
November 5, 2025
The second part of this article continues with three more methods educators can use to develop their leadership potential.
4. Say “No” Strategically
Some educators see themselves as servant leaders. There is definitely an emphasis on the “servant” aspect of the phrase, and that means there might be pressure to say “yes” to every request that comes our way.
Learning how to say “no” strategically may feel wrong at first — but it’s really about prioritizing tasks that align with a long-term goal and vision. There are times and seasons for different commitments. So, look at your schedule and realistically assess your availability.
Remember: “no” is a complete sentence, and saying it doesn’t make you a bad person.
5. Invest in Self-Education
Leadership isn’t just about what you teach; it’s also about understanding the broader landscape of education. Dedicate time to educate yourself on the overarching trends, challenges, and innovations in the field.
Subscribe to newsletters, journals, and blogs that are quick-reads but offer substantive information. Attend conferences where you can meet researchers and practitioners whose work will influence the next initiative in your state. This knowledge will keep you in the know and widen your vision of the field.
6. Seek Mentorship
Mentorship is invaluable, but it should extend beyond receiving advice on teaching methods and classroom management. Find mentors in your building or school district who are willing to share their experiences and guide you in your leadership journey. Look for individuals who have navigated the path you aspire to follow — and find mentors who worked outside of education in “the real world.” (This is incredibly important for teachers who went straight from college into the classroom). Learn from the experiences of others, tap into their wisdom, and build relationships that nurture your growth. Know what you don’t know and work on it.
It’s easy to lose yourself in the daily whirlwind of lesson planning, grading, classroom management, professional development, and more. However, if you envision a different role for yourself in the field of education, you must rethink your approach.
Do your job, yes, but get creative and reclaim your time by setting new boundaries. Your vision for the future starts with the intentional steps you take today.