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Welcome back to The Less Stressed Principal. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the top three mistakes principals make when handling unexpected situations. Let’s get into it.

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I remember when I was a new principal—I felt like I was constantly putting out fires. I’d have my week perfectly planned with clear priorities, and then something unexpected would pop up and throw everything off. It could be something as simple as a student conflict. But by the time I talked to everyone involved, gathered witness accounts, and figured out what actually happened, half my day was gone.

It was frustrating. I wanted to be an instructional leader, but I often found myself consumed by things I didn’t plan for. Over time, I realized it wasn’t just the situations that were the problem—it was how I was handling them. Today, I’m sharing the top three mistakes I made, and that you might be making too.

Why Unexpected Situations Are So Hard

There are a few reasons these situations feel so overwhelming:

• They disrupt your planned day. You set aside time for PLCs or teacher coaching—and suddenly you’re stuck handling a discipline issue.

• They mess with time management. You lose hours to something unplanned, and your to-do list just keeps growing.

• They challenge your priorities. You want to be instructional, but you’re constantly reactive.

• They affect staff morale. Teachers want communication, but you’re stretched too thin to provide the clarity they need.

• They stir up parent frustration. Some are supportive, but others push back, and that inconsistency can wear on you.

• They drain you emotionally. Every decision, every conversation, every reaction—it’s heavy.

Mistake #1: Treating Every Situation as an Emergency

I used to assume everything was urgent. Someone would bring me a problem in a panic, and I’d match their energy—dropping everything to respond.

I’d get a call about a recess incident and rush down to handle it immediately. But later I realized most of those situations weren’t true emergencies. The students were safe. No one needed help right that second.

Now, I approach it differently. I ask myself:
Is this an immediate threat, or can it wait?
Many times, the answer is: It can wait. That simple shift lowers your stress, keeps you grounded, and allows you to lead with calm instead of chaos.

Mistake #2: Believing You’re the Only One Who Can Fix It

I used to think, “I’m the principal, so I have to be the one to solve this.” But that mindset only led to burnout.

Now, I see my team as part of the solution. Whether it’s a counselor, behavior coach, AP, or even a teacher leader working on their admin license—there are others who can step in and help.

Even our amazing recess monitors play a role. They may not discipline, but they can have valuable conversations with students. When everyone plays a part, the load is lighter, and the support is stronger.

Also, having clear systems for when you’re absent means the work doesn’t just pile up until you return. You don’t have to be the only one handling every challenge.

Mistake #3: Letting the Situation Take a Mental Toll

This was a big one for me. I’d go home replaying every decision I made, doubting myself, and wondering how others perceived what I did. It stole my peace—and affected my family.

I’ve learned to set boundaries between work and home. Once the situation is handled, it’s done. I don’t take it with me. I’ve also learned to trust myself.

Now, I remind myself:
“I made the best decision I could with the information I had at the time.”

Reflection is important, but not when it turns into self-criticism. We have to protect our mental health or the job will become unsustainable.

The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything

Here’s what I want you to take away today:

• What if it’s not an emergency?

• What if you can handle it with ease?

• What if you simply trusted yourself?

Changing your mindset changes everything. Stop beating yourself up. Start recognizing your growth.

Let others help you. Stay calm. Set boundaries. And know that resilience isn’t about being perfect—it’s about staying grounded and adaptable.

Final Thoughts

When I stopped making these three mistakes, my role became so much more sustainable. I was less reactive, more confident, and I showed up better—not just for my school, but for my family.

And if you’re ready to go deeper with this work, I offer one-on-one coaching to help you shift your mindset and reduce your stress. Let’s work together to make your leadership feel lighter and more sustainable.