The attrition rate for novice principals is a critical issue for schools, districts, and the nation. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of novice principals and how they conceptualize the role of the principal. The novice principals in the study worked in the Washington metropolitan area. Qualitative semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted and recorded via Zoom. Interviews were transcribed for data analysis to understand how novice principals' lived experiences in the Washington metropolitan area helps them to conceptualize their new position. A final sample of 12 novice principals participated in the study. Nvivo was used to analyze the data to identify themes. Several themes emerged from the participants' answers to the interview questions that related to their lived experiences: (a) take advantage of opportunities, (b) flexibility, (c) grit, (d) problem solver, (e) staff support, and (f) instructional support. Based on the results, four key recommendations were made: (1) beginning the principal pipeline early, (2) mentoring, (3) systemic checklist developments to ensure preparedness from within, and (4) individualized support. Additionally, recommendations for further research were made in two areas: (a) replicate this study with novice principals with a focus on the post pandemic experience, (b) study the phenomenon through a case study utilizing focus groups consisting of novice principals, and (c) studying the phenomena of isolation expressed by novice principals through an ethnographic study. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]