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LEADERSHIP

Staying Still

Pearls of Wisdom
By Katie Wellbrook
06-May-26
Staying Still

For over 30 years international school leaders, teachers, and counselors have come together for PTC professional learning experiences. Each day of every program begins with a “pearl of wisdom,” a “nugget of knowledge,” or a “gem of inspiration” from one of the participants. We are delighted to offer our readers around the world these powerful stories, insights, and strategies, all dedicated to our shared mission of ever more and better learning for our children.  

In this Pearl, Katie shares how recognizing her tendency toward constant motion and achievement led her to reframe success through the practice of stillness and presence. Reflecting on a fast-paced career shaped by ambition and restlessness, she acknowledges how easily momentum can be mistaken for meaning. By intentionally slowing down and resisting the urge to always pursue the next goal, she is learning to value being present over constantly progressing. As she reflects, “Maybe staying still will be the most radical adventure yet,” reminding us that growth can also come from pause, not just pursuit.


Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.

 

Katie Wellbrook is the Assistant/Deputy Principal at St. Joseph’s Institution International School.

 




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