As I think about where to spend my time and energy in the school, I know that I want to work towards the improvement of the teaching/learning program. That is time well directed.
There are many rules that help the path to betterment.
First, prioritize. What's most important with regard to the work you do. As I've stated numerous times, my main objectives are teaching math, science, and SEL well.
Next, create a teaching environment and schedule that supports that good teaching. Currently I have the supplies and environment I need to do a good job. Better organization of materials and use of time will help me to reach the priorities better. We have some blocks of time that are less effective than others--we've looked carefully at those blocks and have made some proposals for change to better what we can do.
And, foster meaningful learning experiences. Again, we have a great agenda of worthy learning experiences, and the work to better this includes deepening and better targeting what we do and when we do it. For example, at the moment, our schedule is a bit too full--we need a bit of pruning. It's also a bit too general and superficial, we can deepen and target our work more to help all students in effective ways.
Then as we work with leadership and others around issues of instruction, we need to expect good evidence and rationale for change. Sometimes what's expected may not be well rooted in modern day research and effective practice. When that happens we can't simply go along, but instead have to question that channels proposed. Respectful advocacy is an important part of the teaching/learning efforts when it comes to improving programs.
Choosing to get involved in worthy committees, efforts, and work is similarly important. It's no use to belong to groups that go nowhere or do not support your priorities. Instead join and work on/for committees that help you to reach your curriculum goals and teaching efforts.
Regular reflection helps too as you evolve the teaching/learning environment, program, and efforts. Questions such as what is working, what could be better, and what do we need for betterment are essential questions in this regard.
As you can see, I'm cheering myself on regularly with regard to this effort--one that takes that inner inspiration and motivation to achieve.