Thread by @MarkVerry_USA

'Leaders Eat Last' by @simonsinek

I had mixed thoughts on this one. I found the overall message on point, even when disagreeing on some observations. Overall, an engaging anthology on leadership.

#TheUnitLibrary #BookClub 🧵
June #professionaldevelopment

I anticipated reading 'Leaders Eat Last' during this challenge. I enjoyed Sinek's TED talk and his book 'Start with Why' (September's book) was one of the first LPD books I picked up.
ted.com/speakers/simon…

"...exceptional organizations all have cultures in which leaders provide cover from above and the people on the ground look out for each other." p9

Sinek uses examples from segments of the military and the corporate world that demonstrate how culture is set and fostered through leadership. How leaders can build confidence and competence from nothing, or tear down what others had built.

He aligns these examples with a discussion of the human community and physiology. He emphasizes empathy and creating a circle of safety in which everyone within the organization also feels within the circle.

"We need to build more organizations that prioritize the care of human beings...As employees or members of the group, we need the courage to take care of each other when our leaders don't. And in doing so, we become the leaders we wish we had." p22

This is integral to putting #PeopleFirst.

army.mil/article/243026…

"There are many different philosophies and debates on work-life balance. One thing I can say for sure, is that everyone in the Army should have a life. I made this chart when I was a squadron commander with my spouse and we’ve been using it ever since." ~Gen. James C. McConville

"Leadership is not a license to do less. It is a responsibility to do more." p286

First published in 2014, the final few chapters are written more directly to baby boomers and Gex-X leaders who are taking on leadership roles to millennials. Here was my only grip with the book.

Many of the generalizations about my generation seem painfully stereotypical, not just of millennials but of every generation entering adulthood by previous generations who now find themselves in positions of responsibility.

Getting past this nuisance, the lessons are universal and their application necessary. Just a few:
-know your people
-create an environment of trust and safety
-learn new technology
-lead by example

"Leadership...is not a bastion of those who sit at the top. It is the responsibility of anyone who belongs to the group...each of us has a responsibility to keep the Circle of Safety strong." p288

I am glad to have read this month's challenge book. As a phrase, 'Leaders Eat Last' is often thrown out there without nuance or consideration. While simple at first glance, it exemplifies far more than one's place in the chow line.

Putting #PeopleFirst. This is what it is all about. SGTs and SSGs "live and work with Soldiers every day and are responsible for their health, welfare, and safety."

As positional leadership grows, separation from junior positions grows as well. True leaders build empathy with new generations on a foundation of their experiences. Effectively mentoring and coaching needs diverse and inclusive perspectives.

Thank you for joining in the June #professionaldevelopment #reading #challenge.

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