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The Law of Process: Leadership is Built Daily, Not in a Day

Leaders push on, even when the way gets messy.
Leaders push on, even when the way gets messy.

Great leaders aren't made overnight. Leadership is a process—one that requires intentional effort, reflection, and growth over time. John Maxwell’s Law of Process reminds us that leadership isn’t about a single moment of success but rather the daily decisions and habits that shape us into effective leaders.


For educators, this truth is especially relevant. The best school leaders—whether teachers, principals, or instructional coaches—didn’t suddenly wake up one day with all the skills and wisdom needed to inspire change. Instead, they committed themselves to a lifelong journey of learning, adapting, and improving.

 

Leadership is a Daily Investment

Think about a master teacher who effortlessly engages students, fosters creativity, and builds a culture of curiosity within their classroom. Or a principal who leads with vision, unites their staff, and cultivates a school community where learning is modeled and thrives. These leaders didn’t get there by chance—they built their leadership ability over time, through continuous learning and intentional practice.


The same principle applies to you. Leadership is like a muscle; the more you train it, the stronger it becomes. If you wait for the "perfect" opportunity to develop leadership skills, you'll always be playing catch-up. But if you commit to the process now, even in small ways, you’ll gradually grow into the leader your school or classroom needs.

 

Small, Consistent Actions Lead to Big Results

Leadership growth happens in the small, everyday moments:

  • The way you handle a difficult conversation with a student or colleague.

  • The time you take to mentor and encourage another teacher.

  • The books, podcasts, or professional development sessions you engage with.

  • The ability to reflect on mistakes and turn them into learning experiences.

  • The consistency of modeling a positive, growth-focused mindset.

Over time, these small actions compound, shaping you into a leader who not only manages but inspires, who not only reacts but anticipates, and who not only teaches but transforms.

 

Embracing the Leadership Process

If leadership is a process, the question isn’t if you’re growing, but how you’re growing. Here are three ways you can embrace the Law of Process in your leadership journey:


1. Commit to Daily Growth

Leadership development doesn’t require hours of extra work—it requires consistency. Spend just 10-15 minutes a day growing your leadership mindset. Read an article, reflect on a leadership challenge, or listen to a podcast on education leadership. The key is to make learning a habit.


2. Seek Feedback and Reflection

The best leaders are self-aware. Take time to reflect on your leadership strengths and weaknesses. Ask trusted colleagues or mentors for feedback on areas you can improve. Instead of seeing challenges as failures, view them as opportunities to refine your leadership skills.


3. Invest in Others

True leadership isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about influence. As you grow, bring others along with you. Mentor a new teacher, share leadership insights with your team, and create opportunities for collaborative growth. By developing others, you strengthen not only your leadership but also the culture of your school.

 

Start Now

Every great leader started somewhere. The difference between those who lead well and those who struggle isn’t talent—it’s commitment to the process. Leadership is built daily, not in a day.


So today, take one step forward. Read something that challenges you. Reflect on an experience. Have a conversation that helps someone else grow. Small steps, taken consistently, will turn you into the kind of leader who doesn’t just manage change—but drives it.


Are you ready to embrace the process? If so, take time to answer the following questions:


1. What is one leadership skill or habit you’d like to develop?

(e.g., improving communication, building trust, mentoring others)


2. What small action can you take every day to develop this skill?

(e.g., reading articles, having intentional conversations with staff, setting time for reflection)


3. How will you track your progress in developing this skill?

(e.g., keeping a journal, finding an accountability partner, creating a checklist)


4. Reflect on a recent leadership challenge you faced.

What did you learn from this experience, and how can you grow from it?


5. Identify one person you trust who can provide you with feedback on your leadership.

What specific feedback will you seek to improve your effectiveness as a leader?


6. Who can you invest in today to help them grow as a leader?

Who comes to mind? Write down a few names to start.


7. How will you support this person’s growth?

(e.g., offering guidance, providing resources, giving feedback)

 


Keep Showing Up, Keep Growing

Leadership isn’t a finish line you cross—it’s a path you walk every day. As educators, our influence is built not in grand gestures but in the small, steady choices we make to show up, lead with integrity, and grow with intention. The Law of Process reminds us that every conversation, every lesson, every challenge is an opportunity to become a stronger, more impactful leader.


So keep investing in yourself. Keep reflecting, learning, and reaching out to others. Whether you're just beginning your leadership journey or have been leading for years, the process never stops—and that’s what makes it powerful. Growth may be slow at times, but it is always moving forward when you’re committed.


You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be present—and persistent.


Because the best leaders aren’t born. They’re built. One day, one choice, one moment at a time.


Now go lead—and keep leading. The process is worth it.

 
 
 

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