August 5, 2016, by Anica Oaks – When people think of great leaders, they often picture coaches, teachers, and business professionals, but the most significant leadership traits are often found in those who have military training and experience. From the moment new recruits enter boot camp, they are subjected to a stressful and challenging environment.
Rather than giving up and quitting, they prove a willingness to push on and better themselves. During this time, individuals learn to perform well under pressure and to work as a team, and both of these traits are valuable in any leadership position.
Think Under Pressure
Any successful leader must be able to make tough decisions while in stressful environments so that others can depend on them. If a leader does not have the capacity to perform well while under stress, the entire team will be impacted in a negative way. Having military training and experience helps recruits learn to manage overwhelming emotions so that they can maintain their ability to think clearly. This skill is as useful in civilian life as it is on the battlefield.
Always Find a Way to Succeed
When presented with difficult and complex problems, most people throw their hands in the air and give up. In the military, however, this is not an option, and soldiers are conditioned to attack problems from all angles until a workable solution is discovered. To supplement their military training, many individuals choose to go on and earn degrees in military history.
Learning about some of the greatest battles in history allows them to find out how some of the brightest minds in the military strategized both offensive and defensive tactics. Not only do these lessons apply to war zones, but they can also be utilized by leaders in business, sports and more.
Value of Teamwork
Although some people try to do everything on their own, this habit only serves to limit them and others. Teamwork is required for success in any capacity, and great leaders must always know this. People who are trained in the military are shown firsthand the value of teamwork and emotional intelligence.
In boot camp, recruits quickly realize that they need each other’s support. On the battlefield, soldiers learn to depend on each other for survival in life or death situations. They learn the value of motivating, inspiring, and teaching each other new skills so that they can achieve a common goal. These traits will enable any leader to succeed in helping their team get their desired results.
Because no one person could win a war, military training and education must place a lot of focus on leadership abilities. No amount of technology or military equipment could ever make up for a lack of teamwork and the ability to remain level-headed during intense situations. When these traits are combined with the capacity to plan and strategize effectively, you have a great leader who can do well in any environment.
About the Author: Anica is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.