these are our stories
The art of storytelling. There is power in both the telling and the participating. And there is vulnerability in both.
As we participate in others’ stories, let’s be kind. Respectful. And grateful.
Your experience can profoundly affect the people around you whether you are aware of it or not.”
- Brené Brown
At the heart of edgework is storytelling.
Whether in our personal life or our leadership role, showing up authentically as ourselves, succeeding and failing greatly, being brave, and forging our own path is what it’s all about.
Telling our stories allows us to process these experiences, understand what we have learned, and recognize where the journey has brought us. There is power in the storytelling. and not only for ourselves, but also for those around us.
I believe storytelling is essential for personal growth and that “stories are the most important tool in the leader’s toolkit” (Gardner, 2011).
Here’s what interesting about storytelling: It requires courage and viulnerabity. That may seem strange. After all, isn’t it the actions we take and decisions that require the most courage? Isn’t the telling of those struggles and accomplishments the easy part?
I believe it is in the telling of our stories that we once again revisit many of the same emotions we experienced in the journey itself. There is tremendous vulnerability in sharing our passions, mistakes, self-doubt, shame, and confusion. These are all elements that make up our most profound professional and personal growth experiences. And those are not easy to share.
I invite you to share your story of edgework with me. I am here to help you tell your story, as a person and as a leader, as well as share inspirations from others.
Below, I begin with my own journey. I hope you will lean in and join me as a storyteller or as a participant.
Online Exclusive: A Head's Powerful Reflection on Coming Out to His School Community
by Kirk Wheeler, Ed.D.
I am a gay father. I am a gay head of school. I didn’t always have the courage to introduce myself this way. Last year, when I was asked to share my experience of coming out at the Northwest Association of Independent Schools’ Fall Educators Conference, I nearly said no. Actually, I think I may have said no several times. Eventually, I stepped into vulnerability and agreed to share my story. I showed up, and this is the story I told.
Running to Belong with Seattle Frontrunners
We are all in the process of growing and evolving. We all have our edgework. Sometimes, we choose our challenge, and at other times change is forced upon us and we forced to grow. As I continue along my own pathway, I am inspired by others and their journeys of personal and professional growth.
Weiwen is an inspiration to many, and I am proud to share his story of edgework, perseverance, and generosity.