the intentional pause

reflective questions for intentional leaders

The Intentional Pause offers a series of carefully crafted questions across diverse leadership topics; each designed to spark reflection and cultivate intentional practice. These prompts invite you to slow down, consider your choices, and deepen your awareness of how you lead.

Whether used daily, weekly, or at a rhythm that fits your schedule, the questions provide a consistent touchstone—helping you become more self-aware, more purposeful, and more attuned to your leadership journey.

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“Intention is the seed that creates the future.”
— Author Unknown

the intentional pause blogs by Jill

PAUSE WITH PURPOSE. LEAD WITH CLARITY.

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New on the blog
the intentional pause: emotional intelligence
the intentional pause: emotional intelligence

Statistics indicate that only 36% of people are able to accurately identify their emotions in the moment.1 And, the average number of emotions a person experiences per day is 27.2 That is a lot to feel, and even more to miss if we are not paying attention.

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exploring task orientation: insights for early childhood leaders
exploring task orientation: insights for early childhood leaders

Is your early care and education program known for its efficiency? Are projects and tasks thoughtfully planned? Would staff describe the program as productive? Is procrastination an exception rather than a rule? Efficiency, planning, and productivity are all qualities that make task orientation a powerful asset. When meetings start and end on time, projects move forward with ease, deadlines are met, and outcomes are achieved, staff tend to experience more satisfaction than when the opposite occurs.

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beliefs that support a professional learning community
beliefs that support a professional learning community

Early care and education has embraced the idea of a professional learning community (PLC) as both a philosophy and an approach to support continuous improvement in teaching and learning. This means collaboration and shared responsibility are embedded across all levels of the organization. The organization itself is a community of learning, or a learning lab. The culture of the organization is one where continuous learning is valued, with everyone striving to gain knowledge and skills.

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"I was at a point in my career where I wanted to implement new techniques, but I was unsure how to suggest change in the work culture so I attended a Director’s Toolbox training series. I was not excited at first, due to attending many training and professional development cohorts that did not leave a lasting impression on me. The instruction and facilitation from Jill Bella was different! These were lively sessions with an emphasis on what leaders need! The interaction with peers and the delivery sparks innovation for all leaders that are trained by Jill Bella. I was able to bring many new methods to my work culture. All leaders should have an opportunity to attend a training facilitated by Jill Bella!"

– Marsha Payton-Martin, Pre-K Teacher, Chicago Public Schools and Former Associate Director, Gads Hill Center