If this past week has told us anything, it’s that we are gearing up for another brilliant and thoughtful year. More than that, it will be a year where leadership is more important than ever—where collaborative decision-making, teamwork, strategic planning, and creative use of resources and technologies will be the defining factors of success. Above all, I believe that your own personal well-being is the most important element in how your year will unfold.
On Monday, January 6, our Prime Minister announced he was stepping down. This announcement came on the four-year anniversary of the ‘storming of the Capitol’ in our neighboring USA. Amazon, too, has requested (or demanded) all employees return to work, marking an abrupt halt to the ‘work from home’ era for many. Life is changing rapidly and people are responding to these various changes in many ways; some healthy and some not.
While politics and economies shift, global leaders change, and as initiatives and policies evolve, you have welcomed students, staff, and families back to your schools with grace, open arms, commitment, and dedication. Well done!
You have weathered the fun and frenzy of the winter holidays with family, friends, children, and loved ones. I hope you found time to unwind, nap, get outside, plan, read, connect with friends—and most importantly—that you took time for yourself.
As January unfolds, the primary focus in schools is ‘getting back to routine.’ There is good reason for this. Routines build security and safety; they let students and families know what to expect. At the heart of your work is your “why”-even when the days feel long and challenging.
As leaders, the start of a new year often places us at the center of numerous demands and expectations. Amid the rhythm of returning to routines and the unrelenting pace of school life, it’s vital to acknowledge the weight you carry as leaders. Your role is not only crucial to the success of your school community but also to fostering a culture of care and resilience—one that starts with you.
Leadership in education is rich and rewarding, yet it can also be exhausting. The mental and emotional toll of guiding staff, supporting students, and navigating complex challenges often goes unnoticed. That’s why your well-being isn’t just a personal priority—it’s a leadership priority.
Dr. Gabor Mate, author of In the Realm of the Hungry Ghosts and other works, outlines that we have three systems that regulate our well-being: the immune system, the nervous system, and the emotional system. The roles of these systems are to allow elements that provide nurture and well-being to our bodies and to keep out what doesn’t.
Here are some small but meaningful ways to prioritize your mental health and well-being in this season of renewal:
- Self-Awareness: Being or becoming more self-aware is integral to good mental health. How can you impact the way you are feeling unless you are aware of how you are feeling? As I prepared to write this column, I watched the documentary Stutz. If you are a fan of actor Jonah Hill, watch it; and if you are not, you might want to watch it anyway. The film explores the relationship between Jonah Hill and his therapist Philip Stutz. Stutz reminds us that there are three realities we cannot avoid; pain, uncertainty and constant work. And when we become more aware of the reasons we are feeling the way we do, we come closer to our life force.
In the film, Stutz explains that the relationship we build with our physical body through nutrition, exercise and sleep count for 85 % of your life force, and that when we focus on these, everything else falls into place. He believes that from adversity comes creativity and opportunity (so as I see it, opportunity is endless for principals and vice-principals!
- Set boundaries: Protect time for rest and recovery. Invest in your physical fitness and overall health. Leadership is a marathon, not a sprint
- Make connections: You are not alone in this work. I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many of you during my visits to chapters across the province. You are part of formal and informal networks of colleagues who share your experiences and understand your challenges. Reach out to them. If you haven’t yet explored any of the professional offerings through BCPVPA, perhaps now is the time! Let me or staff at the BCPVPA know if there is something you’d like to engage with—we’re here to support you.
- Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself on tough days. Remember, progress—not perfection—defines great leadership.
- Model well-being: When your team sees you prioritizing your health and sense of balance, it gives them permission to do the same. This creates a ripple effect that can transform the culture of your school.
I love January. I use the first few weeks of the year to define my goals and create plans to work toward them. It’s a time to reflect and intentionally shape the year ahead. While many people have shared with me that January can feel like a “blah” month, I also believe it holds incredible potential for new beginnings. This is your time to settle into your stride—think of it as the warm-up for the marathon ahead.
Thank you for leading with courage, empathy, and strength. Let this year be a testament to the power of well-being, collaboration, and your unwavering commitment to education.
Take care of yourselves and one another. Have a restful weekend, and please stay in touch.
Dr. Shannon Behan