I Will, I Can: A Blueprint for Positive Leadership in School Transportation
Eight powerful affirmations for school bus transportation leaders.
In school-district transportation, it can be easy to get bogged down with budget cuts, legislation, and to-do lists that feel a mile long. Keeping a positive mindset is a practice to work on every day. It can have unexpectedly wide-reaching effects on the motivation and dedication of your team and even the students you transport. Former Jefferson County School District Executive Director of Transportation and Fleet Services Greg Jackson created these tools for leaders to foster better cultures that drive superior results.
These principles are affirmations to revisit at the beginning of each day. Over time, you'll see the positive changes that come from keeping a positive mindset.
I will and I can always keep my vision in front of me: Keeping a clear vision of your long-term goals and purpose helps put the small bumps in the road in perspective. Write out a list of your most important goals, and keep them somewhere you can look at daily. Let this serve as the guiding star for every action and decision.
I will and I can continue to run my race: Keep your eyes on your own track, even when other obstacles try to distract you. With the destination in focus, the journey is quicker and smoother.
I will and I can expect good things from my students and colleagues: People around you can feel your belief in them. By setting high expectations, leaders inspire those around them to rise to the occasion and even surpass their own expectations. Positivity, encouragement, and belief are your most powerful motivators.
I will and I can have a positive mindset and erase the negative: Focus on solutions rather than problems, and watch your biggest obstacles shrink down to a more manageable size. Eliminating negativity from your thoughts eliminates it from your actions and words and fosters a supportive and uplifting atmosphere.
I will and I can commit to daily excellence: Hold yourself and others to a high standard every day, and you will be amazed at what you can achieve. Commit to doing the best possible job, from vehicle maintenance to customer service — and watch the effects ripple through your team.
I will and I can stay open to growing and learning: Remain open to new ideas and perspectives. This will encourage your team to feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and expertise, making growth and positive change possible.
I will and I can serve my students and community: A commitment to serving others is at the heart of your role in transportation leadership. Remind yourself that you are called to make a difference in the lives of students and the community at large.
I will and I can keep my passion to safely transport students: Nurture your passion for your work and watch this mindset spread throughout your team. You'll inspire a sense of pride and ownership that motivates others to hold themselves to the highest standards of safety and professionalism.
Remember and repeat these affirmations each day, and you'll see the culture of your department shift before your eyes. Positivity is the undeniable key to fostering excellence, motivation, and dedication among transportation professionals who play such a crucial role in students' lives. Your mindset is your most important tool - so treat it with intention and care.