Self-Differentiated Leadership

Being a leader is not easy. Regardless of what we read and what studies may claim, many say there is such thing as a natural born leader. However, some would argue you can develop into one. I tend to see both sides. Taking the jump from a leader to a truly effective leader is what separates those from the pack. Friedman’s Theory of Differentiated Leadership Made Simple (2010) and Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High, 2nd Edition (Patterson et al., 2012) efficiently lays out strategies to have the difficult conversations that will forever appear in any lifestyle.

As a teacher, some may view me as the leader of my 120 students that step into my classroom every year. As a varsity baseball pitching coach, I am often viewed as the leader of my pitching staff. And as a father, my wife and I may be perceived as the leader of our two girls. But this term leader, what does it mean? It sounds strong, I typically prefer to be viewed as the facilitator, as providing the direction, but letting those around me set their own path via exploration. Friedman speaks of self-differentiated leadership being based off our own understanding of ourselves and the relationships and trust that we have built with those around us to confidently make decisions. As a leader, relationships are crucial. One must show they are open to feedback and willing to reflect based off current events and observations of those around them. It is extremely rare for a teacher to plan a lesson and for it to play out as expected. In any setting, there are always endless amounts of variables that are forever changing, a leader but adapt appropriately and confidently. Friedman also references the “emotional triangle” which is a dangerous place to be where a leader shows their vulnerability, if you will, by involving a third party to simply relieve anxiety, therefore introducing doubt in themselves and from those around them (Camp, 2010).

My innovation plan is based on implementing blended learning into the classroom. As I have discussed within my Influencer Strategy and my 4DX Plan, the rollout will begin this upcoming school year with my Algebra 1 team (myself and two other teachers). We are a close-knit group and have the trust of one another. We work collaboratively consistently throughout the year and each share equal ownership in the processes. With this said. the blended learning movement will be coming from my end and I will assume a leadership role of sorts. There will be pushback, that is guaranteed. It is uncomfortable, as it should be, for all parties involved. For this reason, I will be turning to utilizing the crucial conversation guide to ensure that I am staying on course and executing my intended plan appropriately and effectively. Although this will just be with two other teachers to begin, my whole mathematics department will be aware of the movement, so these conversations will be occurring with administrators down to students.

​