From the Chief Administrator

I hope you found it as energizing as I did to connect at the All-Staff Meeting and have time to reflect on personal dreams and commitments. The summary of responses to the question I asked, “This year I will…” is captured in the graphic below.

Reading through the comments reminded me of a quote that I came across in a recent blog post:

“It’s very empowering to focus on the things you can do and to try to get the baggage of what you can’t control off your shoulders.”
Ellen Kullman, former CEO DuPont

The many ideas that you are committed to this year such as collaborating, learning and making a difference certainly struck me as optimistic, dedicated and empowered. When we remember all the things we can accomplish, we can use this energy along with our skills to get more things done and to make good on the commitments we’ve made. Similarly, when we find ourselves feeling stressed, drained and discouraged by things we seem unable to influence, let’s help each other refocus on the things we can do and cultivate a mindset where problems and challenges are considered first as potential opportunities.

Thank you for joining in this reflection at the All-Staff Meeting and for the many ways you help create an environment at Heartland AEA where people can find, enjoy and use their abilities to make a difference. 

- Paula