In the fast-paced world of educational leadership, it’s easy to get swept up in the daily grind, chasing deadlines and managing crises. But every so often, a piece of wisdom comes along that stops us in our tracks and demands reflection. I believe PJ Caposey’s most recent blog post is one of those moments. Its message is a timely reminder of the critical role we play as leaders—not just in managing, but in inspiring, evaluating, and fostering growth.
As we navigate increasingly complex challenges, Caposey's words remind us that leadership often thrives in moments of discomfort. How often do we, as leaders, lean into the difficult conversations and decisions that challenge us, rather than avoiding them or becoming overwhelmed? Are we willing to carry the weight of leadership by holding ourselves and others to the highest standards, even when it’s uncomfortable? His message calls us to embrace the beauty in this discomfort—not as a burden, but as a powerful opportunity to recalibrate, refocus, and push ourselves and our organizations toward growth and excellence.
The following is copied from his November 17, 2024 blog titled "The Beauty in Discomfort"
Leadership often demands a level of discomfort that’s hard to describe. In fact, I’d argue that it requires consistent, almost constant discomfort. In my 18th year as an administrator, this week has reminded me how relentless that reality can be. I’ve had to step into conversations and make decisions I’d rather avoid—but I continue because of my commitment to personal integrity and, more importantly, my duty to push those around me toward excellence and to uphold the standards we set as an organization.
Too often, leaders—particularly in education—respond to this discomfort in one of two ways. One is to avoid it altogether, which, in effect, is a choice not to lead. The other is to confront it, only to become overwhelmed, discouraged, and disheartened. This role, with all its challenges, can feel too heavy if you don’t understand or find some purpose in that discomfort.
Perhaps the beauty of leadership is found precisely there, in embracing discomfort. We are among the few who have the passion—and the resilience—to see growth in others and in our organizations. It’s not easy, and it’s not for everyone. But for those who can find purpose in this discomfort, there’s something powerful in being someone who can carry that weight. That’s where true leadership lies.
If leadership requires discomfort, then we have to take action within it. Here’s how:
Quit walking past the work. Engage in the conversations you know you need to have, even when they’re uncomfortable. Leadership demands presence and commitment, not avoidance.
Take an inventory. Reflect on when and why you engage and, equally important, when and why you don’t. Recognizing these patterns can push you to become the leader you aspire to be.
Push others to lead. Hold those around you to the same standard. Challenge your fellow leaders to embrace the discomfort and to LEAD, not sidestep the hard work.
Leadership isn’t about finding an easy path; it’s about stepping into the challenge. Find the purpose in that discomfort, and let it drive you forward.
JUST. KEEP. LEADING.
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