We talk about Mission Statements as our “Why.” Looking deeper, the Mission Statement is focused mailing on what you do. It is, as I say, your Perspiration. The underlying “Why” you do it is tied to your values, your life history, and other forces that have created the you who is in this current place.

Making a difference in the learning and school experience of your students is probably one of the “Whys” you have. Other “Whys” might have developed over time, such as promoting intellectual freedom.

Focusing on only one “why” has been the traditional approach. The thinking was you needed to bring your full attention to it in order to be successful. David Zimmerman has a different take on it in his blog article, Leaders, It’s OK To Have Multiple “Whys” where he discusses why more could be better and the power of multipotentiality. Zimmerman begins with these four reasons:

1. Diverse Perspectives – Librarians, like everyone else, are not clean slates schooled only in librarianship. We have interests and often other careers which can bring greater scope to what we do. Are you crafty? How can that add to your program? It’s not just in making displays. Think of how it benefits a makerspace. Or perhaps you have a good way of bringing local business people into the library which showcases their talents and exposes students to the choices available after school ends.
2. Adaptability – In a fast-moving world, our multiple interests make us more able to change, pivot, and go through any other gyrations needed to not only catch up but be ahead of the curve. It allows us to be willing to try the new, build on what works, and release what doesn’t. It also shows us the interconnectedness of our interests.
3. Continuous Growth – A single focus can be limiting. Having multiple passions makes us more likely and able to be continuously growing, being motivated anew by what we discover. As librarians, we are and need to be role models for lifelong learning.
4. Greater Impact – The assortment of interests and strengths we bring allows us to communicate more personally with a variety of stakeholders. We have more in common, more reasons for connection. When we communicate, we build the relationships that are so vital to carrying out our Mission – and make a difference in the lives of our communities.

Having multiple “Whys” is at the core of multipotentiality. People who embrace multipotentiality are “an adaptable, quick learners with a wide range of skills and creative pursuits, characterized by their curiosity, capacity to learn quickly, and ability to synthesize disparate ideas.” Zimmerman who presents four ways to lead with multipotentiality.

1. Leverage Your Passions – Take stock of your passions. How can each of them contribute to your role as a school librarian? Whether a love of nature, cooking, or travel, your passion for these parts of you can add creativity and give you greater dimension as a leader.
2. Create Space for Exploration – Don’t be limited to your current passions and interests. When something piques your interest, try it out. Look for new activities, and then bring them into the rich mix that fuels your program and your leadership.
3. Cultivate a Growth Mindset – See these new interests as part of your growth. What did you have to do to learn these new interests? How can you bring the experience of that learning process into your daily work?
4. Encourage It in Others – This is another passion. Bringing the joy of learning and discovery to others. It’s also about the role of leaders in creating new leaders. Seeing others bloom is a special joy.

Your days are full. It seems like a lot to ask you to add to your “Whys,” but you are probably doing it to some degree already. Instead of ignoring those other interests, focus on and include them so you can lean into your passions and interest to bring you to a greater level of leadership.