Figuring Out Where I Fit In

For six months I have not been in public education. I am counting, and that worries me-is it indicative of how long it feels like I have been away from home? I am not going back, but I am still counting the days I have been away. I am in a place that is new and foreign and a bit uncomfortable. On the one hand, it feels like I have been   here forever, but on the other hand there is no denying I am the "new girl". I am still trying to figure out how and where I fit in. It bothers me that I am not on the "inside" of conversations and events, that I am on a need to know basis. I am not sure if it is because I am new and people do not want to overwhelm me-but on the other hand they have little idea where I have come from and what I used to do. It is a fine line between doing your job as others perceive it, and doing the job you would like to do without stepping on everyone around you.

There has been much in the news about introverts recently-and now I know I am one of them. I'm pretty sure I am not an extrovert. So in my own way, on my own terms, I have to deal with making myself fit in and be recognized for my strengths, skills and abilities. I am bringing my education background, focus and connections to an industry that is providing a service for educators. They are much more experienced in their arena than I, but my piece to the puzzle is quite valuable-and many of them are not sure what it is and how it fits right now. Without being a braggart and a know it all, I guess I will have to continue to do my job, my way, and patiently allow things to develop over time in a non threatening way, to allow others the opportunity to expertly guide me to places I have already been.