Name: Sonja L. Howell

Title: Executive Director

Organisation: Tranquil Parenting, Inc.

As a passionate educator with a Ph.D. in Education, my expertise lies in instructional design, specifically tailored to empower students in high-conflict environments. With a commitment to creating inclusive and effective learning strategies, my work aims to bridge educational gaps and foster a supportive atmosphere for learning. I leverage innovative approaches to design curricula that cater to diverse student needs, striving to make education a transformative and empowering experience for all.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Sonja's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

Being a leader, especially in the realm of education and instructional design, has its challenges. One of the most difficult aspects I've encountered is navigating the delicate balance between innovation and tradition. Introducing new, groundbreaking methodologies while respecting established educational practices can be a significant challenge. It's crucial to embrace innovation without disregarding the foundational principles of education. Finding this equilibrium requires careful consideration, open communication, and a willingness to adapt to changing needs while honoring what has proven effective over time.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Transitioning into a leadership role in 2016, I began a path that eventually led to receiving my Ph.D. in Education in 2022. During this transformative period, I actively engaged with educators, collaborating on projects, and sharing innovative teaching methodologies, fostering a commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by students in high-conflict settings.

Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and assuming various leadership responsibilities, I navigated this journey toward educational leadership and instructional design with a focus on inclusivity and engagement and effectiveness.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My days are a mosaic of balancing multiple roles and responsibilities. Mornings usually start early, ensuring I have time for personal reflection, exercise, and setting intentions for the day. As an instructional designer, I immerse myself in crafting innovative learning strategies, collaborating with teams to develop engaging curricula. Throughout the day, I alternate between this role and my responsibilities as an executive director, overseeing organizational strategies and initiatives.

Juggling these roles alongside my duties as a mother and grandmother involves a delicate dance of prioritization. Evenings become a sanctuary for my creative pursuits. It's during these quieter hours that I indulge in brainstorming, designing, and exploring new ideas, finding solace and inspiration in the tranquility.

Weekends offer a unique opportunity to extend help to others, utilizing this time to contribute to causes close to my heart. Despite the packed schedule, being present for my family remains a top priority. Balancing these facets of life is a testament to the importance of time management, flexibility, and the fulfillment found in each role I embrace.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson that has resonated deeply with me, echoing both Stoic philosophy and Christian values, is the virtue of humility. It's a timeless reminder that true leadership isn't about asserting authority or seeking recognition but rather about serving others with a spirit of humility and selflessness.

In reflecting on this lesson, Stoic principles teach the importance of recognizing our limitations and focusing on what is within our control. It's about leading by example, acknowledging our imperfections, and continuously striving to improve ourselves while guiding and supporting those around us.

Similarly, from a Christian perspective, Jesus exemplified servant leadership, washing the feet of his disciples, illustrating the essence of humility in leadership. This selfless act emphasizes the importance of putting others' needs above our own and serving with a compassionate heart.

The lesson, whether seen through Stoic teachings or Christian beliefs, emphasizes that true leadership is rooted in humility, service, and a commitment to the well-being of others above personal gain or recognition.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The Bible's timeless teachings on compassion and servant leadership, coupled with Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations" and "The Art of Possibility," have collectively shaped my leadership style. From the Bible, I've learned about empathy and humility, while the Stoic philosophy offers resilience in adversity. "The Art of Possibility" has inspired creativity and collaboration in leadership, merging these influences to guide my approach with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to serving others.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

I would advise a young leader to prioritize continuous learning and empathy. Strive to learn from every experience, seek guidance from mentors, and embrace diverse perspectives. But equally important is cultivating empathy understanding others' viewpoints, connecting with their needs, and leading with compassion fosters stronger relationships and builds trust, essential elements for effective leadership.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One particularly meaningful experience occurred when I was collaborating with a team to revamp the curriculum for students in high-conflict environments. We faced numerous challenges due to limited resources and diverse student needs.

Amidst this, one student stood out reserved, seemingly disengaged individual. However, during a project where students had to create their learning materials, this student surprised us all. They produced an incredibly insightful and innovative project, showcasing a depth of understanding far beyond what we had anticipated.

This moment was a reminder of the impact of tailored education. It reinforced the importance of recognizing individual potential and providing opportunities that resonate with each student's unique strengths. Witnessing this transformation highlighted the power of personalized, inclusive education in unlocking hidden talents and empowering students in unexpected ways. It reaffirmed my commitment to creating adaptable and empathetic educational frameworks that cater to diverse student needs.