Leadership_Essay

Leadership Philosophy My personal values are nested firmly in the seven Army values but the two that stand out for me because of who I am are: Selfless Service, and Integrity, most especially Moral courage. Selfless Service by the fact that I have continue to serve as a retired United States Army officer, I have voluntarily become a servant to the nation and by doing so put the welfare of the Nation, the Army, and my subordinates before my own. In peacetime and in combat this will be my mantra. Along those same lines, Personal Courage is expected of me at all times, but more importantly, I think, on a day to day basis I must exemplify Moral Courage: the willingness to stand up an be accounted for when my values, principles and convictions (ethics) are challenged. To stand up for what is right and what I believe in, even though it may prove difficult, I believe is critical, regardless of the consequences. Doing the right thing is easy to say, actually doing it is much harder but that is what moral courage is all about! Another attribute that I think is critical and linked to moral courage is candor. This entails being honest, frank, and sincere with others, especially superiors. It also requires that one be aware of the bias and prejudices we have when we ask for feedback or recommendations. A willingness to listen and take account of others points of views and perspectives is a strength that I strive to possess and establish on a daily basis. What’s important to me: 1) My family, 2) My Students, 3) My Army and, 4) My Self development, both professionally and personally. The first three require no additional explanation. As part of self-development I am a committed lifelong learner, especially on the subjects of Organizational Leadership and Military History. They are two of topics I am passionate about. I work on them daily to improve myself and make me a better Leader and a better teacher. Leader Development: This critical area is a personal passion of mine. I firmly believe that all leaders should be developing their replacements today for tomorrow! If we don’t do this than we are failing those who will follow us. Coaching and Counseling are two skills that I have personally developed in myself during my career as an Army officer and educator. I can count on two hands the number of counseling sessions I received over twenty five years of military service. Senior Army leaders have come to recognize that coaching and counseling was a weak area (especially at the FG level) and has gone to great lengths in the last few years to fix this critical piece of force development. I will be an agent of change in this area of improving and developing both our military leaders and our organizations. My typical method of operation: • I will always be on time and prepared-no matter the task or mission. • I will always give my best effort! • Critical Reasoning and Creative Thinking is a combat multiplier. It is the foundation of my self-development. • I do have a sense of humor but do not mistake this with low standards. • I am not a workaholic and I don’t like working around them. I will not micro-manage and I don’t work well with those who are!