March 2023

Aloha!

My husband Aaron and I are prepping to move from Hawaii and reflecting on our jobs in command at Edwards. Here are our top 10 lessons learned:

1. Negotiation is key.

2. Doing the right thing is simple. Note, we didn't say easy.

3. Our habits drive our future.

4. When we were most stressed, we ate junk. Sadly, genetics are not on our side, and we are both ready to shed the extra weight.

5. We aren't in control. Covid-19 reminded us of how little we have control over, and stewarding a team only reaffirmed our limitations.

6. Clear is kind. Brene Brown reminded us to face the hard convos in life.

7. Ownership is vital. Dave Ramsey shared that a self-employed mindset contributes and takes ownership.

8. Boundaries are necessary. Aaron and I are re-reading the Boundaries book and it's been so helpful.

9. Accountability is a must. Recognizing the good and re-directing those off-course provides the foundation for a team.

10. Give Grace and Truth. Just like Jesus, we have an opportunity to do both. After all, truth without grace is mean, and grace without truth is meaningless.

I hope to turn this note into an article. Let me know if other axioms speak to you in your current leadership season.

Blessings and with love,

Liz

What does military command teach you about leadership?

It teaches that leadership is responsibility for people and mission at once: clear intent, trust, decisiveness under pressure, and owning the outcome.

How do military leadership lessons apply to civilian teams?

Set clear intent, build trust before you need it, communicate under stress, and take care of your people. Those transfer to any organization.

What is the hardest part of command?

Carrying responsibility for people while making hard calls with incomplete information, and living with the weight of those decisions.

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