Unfortunately, some think merely wearing higher rank makes them a leader and magically bestows upon them the leadership talent required for success. In reality, leadership is so much more than wearing rank and issuing orders. It develops over a long journey of rigorous study, reflection, and hard-fought experiences. Leadership growth does not happen passively, as no one drifts …show more content…
Actively note the behavior of others you wish to model, and even those you don’t. Always remember the good things from past leaders and make them your own and never forget the bad leadership experiences so as to never impose that upon your soldiers.
If possible have at least one conversation per day that surpasses the mundane and includes words like integrity, honor, influence, discipline, character, initiative, fairness, responsibility, excellence, growth, failure, ethics, perseverance, trust, expectation, duty, effectiveness, inspiration and humility. Why? Because this is the language of leaders and it’s tough to use these words in conversation without learning something meaningful.
Finally, get your leadership radar up. You should engage yourself with all aspects of leadership in your life and focus on providing quality leadership. Soldiers want good leadership and will do amazing things when provided that opportunity. Good leadership talent is tough to acquire, harder to implement, and always changing. As such, your leadership experiences today will prepare you for the challenges that await