Reflecting on episode 291 of the High Performance podcast, having a purpose and serving others shines through. The episode explores how Lewis’s understanding of success evolved from chasing validation to pursuing genuine fulfilment. His powerful quote, “Fear failure, success, or judgement. I am not enough,” reveals the internal struggle many high achievers face – a … Continue reading
Author Archives: denhamkite
Cultivating Excellence: A Leader’s Perspective
As a school leader I’ve found that principles of high performance transcend contexts. Recently, while listening to Ryan Mason on episode 182 of the High Performance Podcast, I was struck by how his insights mirror what we strive to cultivate in education. Ryan emphasised three fundamental values: respect, hard work, and a willingness to listen … Continue reading
The Illusion of Cleverness
Those who believe themselves clever while merely casting blame often reveal more about themselves than their targets. When someone consistently seeks to tarnish reputations rather than engage with ideas, they’re typically masking their own deep-seated fears. Fear of change drives many to this behaviour. Rather than adapting to new realities or considering different perspectives, they … Continue reading
Debate with Authenticity and Kindness
Episode 167 of the High Performance Podcast delves into the world of Adam Grant, an organisational psychologist, author, professor and podcast host himself. In the relentless pursuit of achievement, we often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of validation-seeking. As Adam Grant wisely points out, we should “stop trying to prove yourself; improve yourself instead.” … Continue reading
Rarely, Sometimes, Often or Always?
How often do you make a change, look to improve or challenge yourself? It’s not always that easy and it certainly isn’t something that everyone enjoys. Does that mean however that we should stand still and do what has always been the way, whatever that way is? Change for some can be quite a challenge … Continue reading
Reflecting
Sat and chilling whilst away in the van. Been walking, running, cycling, paddle boarding and kayaking. Love the breaks away with Kate and Dan. When you get the time to relax and slow down, do you appreciate all you have and reflect on how much time you have? I’m not being morbid but actually, when … Continue reading
Listen, Understand and Respect
Whilst I reflect on the way we engage with each other, Mark Finnis writes in his book about conversations being nothing more than a series of small chats. I always seek daily chats with children, staff and parents to increase understanding – they are sometimes a challenge for some. That may be a question the … Continue reading
Together, we will succeed.
Whenever I show prospective parents and their children around school, I am always keen to find out what makes the child tick. In Mark’s book he talks about that sense of belonging and a quote from Peter Block which goes like this… It gives me great delight when our children and parents feel a real … Continue reading
It’s all about the People – Still True
I stumbled across this reflection which failed to post. Where it was me holding back on the publish button or a connection issue, Im not sure. What I wrote back in June 2022, is still true… When all is said and done, it’s all about the people. In June we would have been getting to … Continue reading
Camping again
All set up for a few days in Delamere, camping with Kate and Dan. Will be a little different this time because Dan has a broken arm so the originally planned cycling, wakeboarding and other stuff is on hold. Nevertheless, we’re away and enjoying glorious weather and family time. It’s been quite a year with … Continue reading