[February 14, 2019] Criticizing military leaders for their failures is not something I write about lightly. But, as all who have “been there and done that,” know that criticizing can have a meaningful and positive impact. The reason that thoughtful criticism is necessary is that people die when military leadership fails. One good thing about U.S. military leaders… Read More »
[February 13, 2019] The U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York has an honor code1 that goes back to its founding in 1802. It reads, “A cadet will not lie, cheat, or steal, or tolerate those who do.” However today, cheating is not only encouraged, but anyone who doesn’t cheat is considered old-fashioned and obsessive. “I would… Read More »
[February 12, 2019] Dealing with children can be an amazing experience; one filled with new things, high energy, and interesting challenges. Observing children at play with their peers opens new windows into the importance of how children progress to be likable youngsters. Their efforts are not that different from a balanced leader; one who seeks the right attitude… Read More »
[February 11, 2019] If doing business was easy then 70% of start-ups have not seen the downfall in the first two years of their arrival. The growth of a business is in direct proportion to the problem-solving abilities of the owner. The best news is that these abilities can be developed and practiced in every difficult situation to… Read More »
[February 10, 2019] I’ve been remiss of late by not writing about France’s Yellow Vest movement. Mouvement des gilets jaunes is a populist, political movement for economic justice that began in France last November. It is of interest to those of us who study leadership that there is no visible leadership in the movement. The movement began, like… Read More »
[February 9, 2019] There are plenty of practical lessons for leaders to consider in their journey to better understanding people. Goodness is one of those universally desirable attributes that indicate that this is a person who is trustworthy. However, judging people by their kind acts can be misleading if you’re looking for goodness. Some folks display a façade… Read More »
[February 8, 2019] Yesterday morning I was at my dentist’s office for a cleaning and checkup. The dental hygienist was talkative, of course, while my mouth is open and I couldn’t talk. But she said something that interested me. She said that I was one of few people who came in that actually knew how to do maintenance… Read More »
[February 7, 2019] I had only been command of my new Infantry Company for a little over a month but my boss (the Battalion Commander) already didn’t like me. He said I was “too bold.” One day we were to convoy back to Fort Hood, Texas from a local training area. My company was last (eat me dust)… Read More »
[February 6, 2019] Army Vet looks back on his recent experience with some American politicians in Washington D.C. and discusses his observations, surprises, and expectations … and a little secret. The Government owes you Nothing: I consider myself a fortunate person because I’m not just free to do as I wish but I’m also a FREE THINKER. Here’s… Read More »
[February 5, 2019] It’s been said that leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality. While life and sports are about doing exactly this, only those who are best organized can actually succeed. Sunday evening, the New England Patriots won Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams in a tough game: scoring 13 – 3. Sports… Read More »