How to Excel in the Military Despite a Bad Attitude

The road to becoming a successful soldier is not always easy, especially for those whom leadership challenges seem to follow. In my younger days, I often found myself in situations where my attitude and behavior fell short of expectations. However, as I matured and gained experience, I learned important lessons that have helped me overcome these obstacles and become a better soldier.

Leadership Challenges and Personal Growth

One of my early encounters with a challenging CO (Commanding Officer) had a profound impact on me. He provided two key pieces of advice that I have carried with me throughout my military career:

While I lacked tact, I made up for it with candor. Garrison duty is mandatory because you can't stay in the field all the time.

These statements highlighted the importance of both honesty and operational flexibility, which have become valuable traits in my life and career. While I may not have been the most tactful soldier, I learned to embrace my candor and adapt to various situations.

Defining a Good Soldier

Despite the challenges, I consider myself a good soldier for several reasons:

Never Quitting: I have not given up on anything in my military career and have remained dedicated to my goals. Self-Reliance: I have never asked or allowed anyone to carry my load. I take responsibility for my actions and decisions. Self-Initiative: I am a self-starter who likes to take the initiative and make things happen. Independence: I can work unsupervised and handle tasks without constant supervision. Adaptability: I am willing to cross-train and take initiative in learning new skills through correspondence courses. Critical Thinking: I can think quickly on my feet and come up with innovative solutions. Leadership: I am not afraid to take charge and get things done, even in difficult situations. Maturity: I have never blamed others for my own mistakes and take full responsibility for my actions. Decision-Making: I am not afraid to make decisions and accept their outcomes. Responsibility: I am fully aware and accepting of my responsibilities.

The Unexpected Challenge of Physical Fitness

One area where I faced a unique challenge was with physical fitness. Physical Training (PT) has never been my strong suit, and I often struggled to meet the minimum standards. However, I developed strategies to improve in this area, such as increasing my endurance and adopting a consistent training routine.

Another significant challenge for me has been dealing with tactfulness. It can be difficult to constructively point out someone's mistakes without causing tension or conflict. Over time, I have learned to navigate this by being direct, yet respectful.

Conclusion

While the term "good soldier with a bad attitude" might seem contradictory, it can describe a person who has faced numerous challenges but has learned to overcome them. By embracing alternative strengths—such as candor, initiative, and adaptability—these individuals can ultimately become highly capable and respected members of their unit. The journey to becoming a great soldier is never linear, but with perseverance and a willingness to learn, even the most difficult challenges can be overcome.