Education leaders do not hesitate or appear fearful in any aspect of their lives. They take the lead despite the possible dangers. It doesn’t mean that they have an absence of fear, it means that they keep pushing forward even when they are afraid. That is what makes brashness such an important leadership trait. It’s like a superpower for education leaders. Brashness does not mean recklessly offending others in the process, it means doing the right thing even if you ruffle a few feathers.

A little brashness is needed

By working on your leadership character and, more specifically, your ability to lead courageously, you can begin to implement a little brashness into your leadership toolkit. Remember, this means making the right decision regardless of how you will be viewed by others. For instance, even if it means being alienated by everyone in their school district, a courageous superintendent will make choices based on what is best for everyone involved, especially the students.

Yes, being brash will mean that you will ruffle a lot of feathers and make you a divisive figure, but when you lead with your heart, good things tend to happen. It’s strange that when people get a brash new leader, most are excited. They will tell you that you are just the person to clean up some of the issues that have been plaguing the organization. They want you to hold people accountable, but when it’s their time to be judged, they sing a different tune. Don’t worry about them, they will be ok. Just keep leading with your heart and doing what is best for the students and not the adults.

Concluding thoughts

Brashness has gotten a bad rap over the years. Most people view it as being overly assertive and downright rude, but I look at it as being a bit harsh, but only when it is the only possible reaction. Sure, I advocate being nice to people, but sometimes people can take your kindness for weakness. Sometimes, they don’t get the message until you show your bad side. Then they realize the importance and seriousness of the matter.