Fighting for a Seat at the Table
Incredible heroism is displayed daily on battle fields around the globe. Rank doesn’t matter much when lives are at stake — it’s all about what you bring to the table and how effective you are on the team. I saw this first-hand from young 19-year old soldiers to those in senior leadership positions who were likely in their 50’s. I was impressed and in awe, not to mention I learned so much from them daily.
It was also clearly evident from day one that there were those who decided to check out. Yes, they wore the uniform — in fact, they were often distinguishable by the number of useless gear they carried on their bodies. I wasn’t quite sure a mag-light, a squeeze light, AND a glow stick were all required to make a visit to the DFAC (dining facility according to the Army). But, more times than not, it was those who had the shiniest of gear, who were most checked out mentally. This was especially sad to see, as those who were more focused on Baskin Robins and flashy gear, were more likely to get injured or killed.
During the morning “BUBs” (battle update briefings), you knew who those folks were, regardless of rank. We had lieutenants briefing generals, whilst Majors stood against the tent wall with little regard for what was happening. It was very the same lieutenants who later distinguished themselves through acts of heroism or selflessness. It was those lieutenants who later earned the respect of both senior and subordinate service members as well as their peers. They were the ones who earned the seat at the table.
Why is this any different than the corporate boardroom?
I don’t believe it is. It’s about engagement, service and commitment to one another and the team mission. It’s about giving more than getting. And, it’s about serving one another and not myself. The very same leadership traits that makes one successful on the battlefield are the same ones that will make you successful in the boardroom.
#JJDIDTIEBUCKLE
