I was extremely flattered and newly inspired by Library Girl, Jennifer LaGarde’s thoughtful perception flowchart, in response to my last post.

(In fact, if you haven’t read her blog, or seen the eloquent way she visually transmits concepts, please stop reading and take a trip there right now.)

Jennifer reminds us:  Your work has to matter before it will matter to anyone else.

It’s not enough to just work hard.  It’s not enough to be exhausted at the end of the day.  The hours we spend with children must matter.  The work we do on behalf of students must result in measurable outcomes.

Jennifer gives us advice as we rethink our new year.  Focus on kids, not stuff. Don’t just be busy, make a difference.

I am not the queen of the world, but allow me this suggestion.

Regardless of what you may have learned, I give you permission not to do inventory (or inventory-like tasks) this year.

In fact, take two or three years off.   Rethink your days and don’t do anything that doesn’t really impact learners.

In 2014 and beyond, make sure you