Two quotes from the books have stuck with me.
"Do win-win, or don't do it at all." ~ John Maxwell
In my role as school counselor, I work with so many different people - teachers, administrators, students, parents, cafeteria workers, janitorial staff, and office staff. When things get hectic, I sometimes become focused on myself and what I need. I forget all about what the other person needs or how she feels.
While getting what I need may seem advantageous in the moment, it can be devastating to my relationships with others. I must remember - my relationships with others are my #1 asset.For example, when I am doing behavioral plans for students, it is important that I give the teacher as much support as possible. If I just do my part and then say, "Good luck," I have failed. I am creating a win-lose situation. In order to "do win-win," I need to create the plan with the teacher and student, provide ongoing support, and offer as much help as I can.
"Do the things that provide the greatest return." ~ John Maxwell
Almost any counselor will tell you that one of their greatest challenges is a four letter word - TIME. Between staff meetings, guidance, crisis needs, small groups, parent requests, 504 meetings, paperwork, and student needs, I often find myself wondering where my time went. In order to be most EFFECTIVE, I need to ask myself, "What thing(s) do I do that have the greatest impact? What has the greatest return?" I need to focus my efforts on these things.
Every school has different needs, and therefore different tasks will have a different return. After reflecting, I decided that the following tasks have the greatest return at my school:
~ Guidance Instruction
~ Individual Counseling (teacher referred and self referred)
~ Teacher Consultation and Support
