The new normal

When I was single, I had a good routine between teaching and coaching, and I felt like I had control over my life with very few surprises .. Since getting married, having a child, and entering into administration, each day is very unpredictable with lots of surprises. This change is and has been uncomfortable for me at times, even when the change has been good. 
Lately I've been getting a sense that all of us (Sinnott Staff) can feel change in the air between the Common Core, designing of the new learning center, and other district initiatives which can feel uncomfortable. 
One of my best buddies in the whole world is a youth pastor for a large church in Seattle WA and I reached out to him recently for some advice around this topic of change. He said something during that conversation that I'll keep with me forever. Rob said, "Tony you're holding onto the past and what once was. You're not single, teaching, or coaching anymore. You're a Husband, a Father, a Leader and responsible for all that comes along with those things. This is your "new normal". What was normal for you before, is no longer your reality. Embrace this new normal and control the things you can. How you interact with your staff and your family. How you listen. How you take care of yourself so you can be there for others. Surprises and constant change are a part of life in every way. This is your new normal for right now, but this normal will change again. Tony. Step up to your calling and be the person and leader you're called to be!" This hit me like a ton of bricks! Since that conversation, I've really turned over a new leaf. Every time I feel pushed to my limit by life's twists and turns, I remind myself that this is my "new normal" and it renews me with confidence that I can get through whatever I'm facing. Be encouraged that finding your "new normal" in the midst of change will give you that same confidence... 

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