Get Off Your High Horse
Over 200 years ago on a lone battlefield a man in civilian clothes rode past a small group of exhausted battle-weary soldiers frantically digging an obviously important defensive position.
The section leader, sitting leisurely on his horse with canteen in hand, made no effort to help, and shouted orders and threatened punishment if the work was not completed within the hour.
The stranger in civilian clothes rode his horse up to the section leader and asked him, “Why are you not helping?”
“I am in charge,” shouted the man. “The men do as I tell them.” And then added, “Help them yourself if you feel so strongly about it.”
To the section leader’s surprise the stranger dismounted and helped the men, toiling in the dirt under the hot sun until the job was finished.
Before leaving the stranger congratulated the men for their work, and approached the puzzled section leader.
“You should notify top command next time your rank prevents you from supporting your men—and I will provide a more permanent solution,” said the stranger.
Up close, the section leader now recognized General Washington… and also the lesson he’d just been taught.
Get in the trenches and do what you would have others do. Make your action your instruction.
What are 5 behaviors, disciplines and actions you want your team to take this week?
Do them yourself… with excellence. Eventually they will…CLICK HERE TO READ REST OF POST
