Evaluate First. Then Take Action.

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved. - Helen Keller

Life is a continuous set of experiences. Some are positive and others are negative, but the pros and cons can become equally important. The results of the negative experiences helped me to look inside myself as opposed to blaming others.

Remaining angry and blaming others for my past decisions made me realize I was an emotional mess. It seemed like I had spent a lifetime blaming others for the aftermath of the decision I made to suspend 1,200 students.

Anyone who has ever been in a complex situation knows that the healing process takes time. The ability to move forward successfully requires evaluating the situation BEFORE taking action.