The Law of Navigation: Anyone Can Steer the Ship, But It Takes a Leader to Chart the Course

(Part Five in our on-going educational leadership series based on John Maxwell's 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership)

Effective leadership is more than simply managing day-to-day tasks. It’s about having a clear vision for the future and navigating through challenges to achieve it. John Maxwell’s Law of Navigation reminds us that great leaders don’t just react to circumstances—they plan, guide, and anticipate what lies ahead.

For educators, this principle is vital. As a school leader, whether you're a principal, teacher, or instructional coach, you must not only manage your school or classroom effectively today but also chart a course that leads to long-term success for both students and staff.

The Role of a Leader: A Visionary and Navigator

Imagine setting sail on an ocean with no map, no compass, and no clear destination in mind. The journey would be aimless and uncertain. Similarly, without a plan or clear direction, a school or classroom can easily veer off course.

Great leaders in education understand that it’s not enough to react to immediate needs—they must have a roadmap to guide their team forward. A successful leader charts the course, envisions where they want to go, and creates a plan to ensure the entire team moves in the same direction.

The Importance of Planning and Strategy

Effective navigation starts with a plan. But even the best plans need to be flexible to adapt to unexpected challenges. Educators must think strategically, anticipating obstacles and adjusting as necessary. A successful school leader understands that their responsibility isn’t just to manage what’s happening today but to plan for what lies ahead. This could mean:

• Setting long-term goals for the academic year and beyond

• Anticipating challenges that may arise and finding ways to address them proactively

• Encouraging input from staff and students to create a shared vision

• Building a roadmap for how to move forward, even in times of uncertainty

  
  

Strategic planning in education isn’t about rigid, step-by-step instructions. It’s about having a clear vision of what success looks like and taking deliberate steps toward that goal, while also being flexible and open to changes along the way.

The Power of Anticipation

One of the most critical aspects of the Law of Navigation is the ability to anticipate what will come next. As educators, we face many uncertainties: changing student needs, shifting priorities, or external pressures such as budget cuts and policy changes. However, the ability to foresee these challenges and plan ahead can make all the difference.

For example, a principal might anticipate that a new teaching method will require additional professional development for staff. Rather than waiting until the problem arises, a leader can put resources in place early, ensuring the team feels confident and prepared when the time comes. By anticipating what’s needed in advance, the leader ensures that both the students and teachers are set up for success.

Involve Your Team in the Process

While leadership requires charting the course, it doesn’t mean doing it alone. The most effective leaders actively involve their teams in the navigation process.

Great leaders listen, engage, and seek input from their teachers, staff, and even students. They understand that everyone plays a part in reaching the destination, and that diverse perspectives help enrich the decision-making process. By working together, the team becomes united in a shared vision, and everyone knows their role in helping the school or classroom move toward success.

As a leader in education, your role goes beyond managing the daily operations of your classroom or school. You are the navigator, charting the course for both students and staff to follow. It’s your job to create a vision, plan for the future, and anticipate potential challenges along the way. And most importantly, you must take your team with you—ensuring that they are part of the journey and are motivated to reach the destination.

By embracing the Law of Navigation, you can guide your team through challenges and help them navigate the road to success. It takes foresight, strategic planning, and an ability to adapt, but with the right course charted, there’s no limit to where you can go.

Reflection Activity: Chart Your Own Course First

To help you put the Law of Navigation into practice, take a few moments to reflect on your leadership journey using the questions below.

Defining Your Vision

Great navigation starts with a clear destination. As a leader, you need a vision of what success looks like.

1. What is your vision for the future of your school or classroom?

   (Think long-term: What do you want your students and staff to achieve?)

   
   

2. What are the key values that should guide this vision?

   (These could include things like collaboration, creativity, excellence, etc.)

   
   

Developing a Strategic Plan

Once you have a vision, it’s time to create a plan. Strategic planning ensures you are prepared for the journey ahead.

1. What are your major goals for the year?

   (List at least three key objectives that you want to achieve.)

   
   

2. What steps can you take to reach each of these goals?

   
   

   (Break down each goal into smaller, actionable steps.)

   Goal 1: ________________________________________

   Goal 2: ________________________________________

   Goal 3: ________________________________________

   
   

3. How will you involve your team in this planning process?

   (Consider how you will engage teachers, staff, and students in creating and achieving your goals.)

Anticipating Challenges

No journey is without obstacles. The ability to anticipate potential challenges allows you to prepare in advance.

1. What potential challenges might you face in achieving your goals?

   (Consider internal and external challenges, such as changes in policy, budget cuts, or shifts in student needs.)

   
   

2. What proactive steps can you take to overcome these challenges?

   (Think about resources you can provide, ways to engage your team, or strategies for remaining flexible.)

Measuring Progress and Adjusting the Course

Great navigation involves regularly checking your progress and making adjustments.

1. How will you measure progress toward your goals?

   (What metrics or indicators will help you assess whether you are on track?)

   
   

2. How will you adjust your course if something isn’t working as planned?

   (Consider how you will stay flexible and adapt your approach if necessary.)

Leadership Reflection

Effective navigators reflect on their journey. After implementing your plan, take time to reflect on your leadership progress.

1. Reflect on a recent leadership decision you made.

   (What went well? What could have been improved?)

   
   

2. What lessons did you learn from that experience that can help guide your future decisions?

As you consider your role as a navigator for your school or classroom, take time to reflect and engage with the questions above. They are more than just a checklist—they're a compass to help you define your vision, prepare for the journey, and lead with purpose. True leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about asking the right questions, involving your team, and staying the course even when the waters get rough. By thoughtfully charting your path and regularly reflecting on your progress, you’ll not only guide your team toward success—you’ll inspire them to become leaders themselves. As a result, you’ll shift from being a manager of the moment, and become a leader of lasting impact.