The self-discipline of endurance is a life skill. It is not always the most talented person who succeeds. The people with a can-do attitude and the mindset that they will not stop until they reach their goal will achieve the most exceptional results. They will also know what it feels like to earn it.

Your words are important and powerful. If you think or speak in a fatalistic (no win, lacking confidence) way, your thoughts and words may lead to less than satisfactory results. If you talk and think positively, you have a better chance of influencing yourself and others – especially if you have a plan and skill.

When you find yourself in an area that does not feel or look right, make a wise decision. It may be best to leave.

As a mentor, using effective teaching strategies is essential. There are countless teaching strategies proven to work. When teaching a new safety life skill, sometimes you have to be direct - "Don't touch the top of that hot stove!" However, orders combined with sharing why the information has value will have a better chance of changing behavior.

A topic that always occurred in the assistant principal aspiring principals program was managing time.

I had a plan for the day. I was ready to go. I knew that my schedule permitted a lot of focus on my weekly goals. Nothing was going to get in my way - I was going to get things done.

Lifelong learning provides a foundation of knowledge. With knowledge, a curious mind, and a mission, chances for success expand infinitely.

When something changes in your surroundings, be curious. Ask questions. Specifically, ask the question, “Why?”