Tag Archive for leadership lessons

The Leadership Roller Coaster

Lately I have been on a real leadership roller coaster.  I have had high points and low points, quick turns and gravity defying, scream stealing leadership lessons.  There is no question that I love what I do, most leaders do however the life of a leader is not always praise and pats on the back.

The human dynamic in a military organization is sometimes marginalized for a macho bravado that spits bullets and drinks buckets of coffee like it’s cool aid.  The big question since the begining of time has been – how to inspire other people to reach for the best that they can be even though they do not see it in themselves?

Add into the equation a rank structure that spouts of superirors and subordinates, as well as rigid rules & regulations and you get a big mixing bowl of incredibly tumultous times to be had by all.

I would not trade being a leader for anything, I live for learning how to foster the human dynamic to thrive.  The reward of seeing the light bulb go on or observing the “ah-ha” moment when other people get it, is priceless.  There are dangerous double standards and other people’s egos that can impede progress however, and that really sucks.

All in all it’s what you make it so I choose the best; for those that I lead and those that I love, they are often one in the same.

Long Live Leadership,

Mark Edward Brown

Mark Edward Brown’s Veterans Day Salute

Veteran's Day Salute

Veteran

 
     Today is Veterans Day in the United States of America and as I reflect back over almost 20 years of service I am most thankful for the Leadership lessons, connections and the vast network of friends and mentors that I have formed along the way.

I am not only thankful for my experiences but for those of my brothers and sisters who have served before me and kept traditions alive.  Without their sacrafice much would have been lost.

As a Commander and a leader of soldiers, I know that my days are numbered and that is a sorrowful conclusion to something I so dearly enjoy (leading).  To recieve a compliment, a nod of approval, a handshake, even a smile from one’s soldiers is worth more than gold.

As I close, I do it with a Salute to my fellow Service Members in All branches of the Military as well as the Fire & Rescue, and Law Enforcement Professionals that serve in what most know is a thankless profession.

God Bless You All,

Mark Edward Brown