ABSTRACT
Chapter 1, “Discovering Your Leadership Edge” draws inspiration from the daring tightrope walker Charles Blondin’s amazing feat across Niagara Falls to highlight the delicate balance between assertiveness and compassion crucial for educational leaders. This chapter emphasizes that trust capital is essential for building strong relationships with staff and stakeholders. It also discusses the need for a shift from transactional administration to authentic leadership in the education sector. The concept of a leadership edge is introduced as a unique blend of skills, values, and passions that distinguish a leader. This chapter offers practical strategies for leadership development, including identifying strengths, seeking mentorship, reading leadership literature, joining professional networks, attending workshops, and practicing self-reflection. Developing leadership skills is an ongoing journey that has the potential to transform both the leader and the educational landscape they serve.
