The ‘Military General’ Mindset

A military general’s mindset involves thinking beyond oneself, focusing on strategic considerations, bearing the weight of decision-making, and embodying the highest levels of leadership and stewardship.

A general is distinguished from that of his subordinates primarily by the breadth and depth of responsibility, as well as the strategic focus required by the role. As a military general, perception of the world around you is critical, and it is often quite different from that of a civilian. The world is viewed in terms of threats and opportunities, strategic landscapes, and resources. Every detail, from the political climate of a region to the geography of a battlefield, is considered and evaluated for its strategic implications.

      Strategic vs. Tactical Thinking

A general must focus on the big picture, considering not just the immediate battlefield, but also the broader strategic landscape. They must think about long-term implications, political considerations, and the overall war effort. Subordinates, on the other hand, may focus more on tactical execution and immediate tasks at hand.

Perception

Generals must develop an acute sense of global awareness. Understanding international politics, cultures, and socioeconomic factors is crucial. You should study history not just for its own sake, but to understand how past events have shaped the present and how they might influence the future. This broad perspective enables you to prepare for potential scenarios and make informed decisions.

In addition to understanding the macro-level global landscape, a general must also possess a keen eye for details. This includes being able to read maps and terrain, assess the morale and capabilities of their troops, and gauge the intentions of both allies and adversaries.

      Decision-Making Responsibility

Generals bear the ultimate responsibility for the decisions they make and their consequences. This includes both tactical decisions on the battlefield and strategic decisions that affect the entire organization. This level of responsibility requires a mindset of accountability and the courage to make difficult decisions.

      Reading People

The ability to read people is a critical skill for a general. This is not just about understanding what someone is saying, but also about interpreting their intentions, motivations, and potential actions. Often, the most important information is what is not said. Body language, tone of voice, and even choice of words can reveal more than the explicit message.

You must also pay close attention to the actions and behavior of others. How a person acts under pressure, treats their subordinates, or deals with failure can provide valuable insights into their character and reliability.

      Leadership

Generals must embody and model the values and standards of the military. This includes demonstrating integrity, courage, and resilience. They must also inspire trust and confidence in their leadership, both from their superiors and their subordinates.

      Engaging with People

Engaging with people, whether they’re subordinates, superiors, or foreign counterparts, is a vital part of a general’s role. Communication must be clear, concise, and respectful. It’s important to listen as much as, if not more than, you speak. Understanding the perspectives and concerns of others helps build trust and cooperation.

Leadership in the military is about service, not personal glory. A general must be willing to make tough decisions, bear the responsibility for the outcomes, and put the welfare of their troops and their mission above all else.

      Problem Solving

When it comes to problem-solving, generals must be adept at both tactical and strategic thinking. Tactical problem-solving involves addressing immediate issues on the battlefield, while strategic problem-solving involves long-term planning and decision-making.

This requires a blend of analytical thinking, creativity, and decisiveness. You must use analytical thinking to assess the situation, understand the problem, and consider possible solutions. Creativity is needed to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. Decisiveness is critical in turning those solutions into action.

      Emotional Intelligence

Generals must have a high degree of emotional intelligence to understand, communicate with, and effectively lead their subordinates. This includes being able to empathize with the stresses and challenges their troops face, and to motivate and inspire them.

      Self-Improvement

Self-improvement is a continuous journey for a general. There’s always more to learn, whether it’s a new strategy, technology, or understanding of human behavior. It’s important to stay humble, seek feedback, and be willing to admit and learn from mistakes.

Moreover, a general must maintain physical fitness and mental resilience. The job involves high levels of stress and demanding physical activities. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and adequate rest are crucial for maintaining peak performance.

      Stewardship

Generals are stewards of their military service. They must think beyond their own tenure and consider the long-term health and success of the organization. This means developing future leaders, preserving the military’s resources, and upholding its values and traditions.

Thinking like a general involves a complex interplay of global awareness, people skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to self-improvement. It’s about being constantly ready, aware, and willing to serve, while striving to be the best leader you can be. This mindset can be applied not just in the military, but in any situation where leadership, strategic thinking, and a broad perspective are required.