Caskets, Reflection, Gratitude, and Leadership...

About 15 years ago I was traveling for work - flying from LAX to SLC. I sat in my seat I looked out the window, as I often do, but this time I saw a different site. Instead of seeing the hustle of luggage being loaded, I saw dear service men and women standing at full attention saluting caskets topped in American flags being loaded on the plane.

As the last caskets were loaded many of the soldiers then boarded the plane. I found myself reflecting on what the brave men and women had sacrificed. I thought of their families, and the hopes and dreams mother's and father's had for these military members who made the ultimate sacrifice. I began to ponder the fact that it was very likely some of these wonderful individuals had children that were the ages of mine. I then reflected on how excited I was to see my children after a week on the road, and how excited they always are when I walk in the door after time away from them. Then the emotions took hold. These men and women had committed to a task of protecting our rights and freedom, and made the ultimate sacrifice. It was in that moment I truly felt a great sense of gratitude toward our military members. I committed to myself that day that I would greet every service member I came in contact with a handshake and heartfelt "THANK YOU!"

The commitment I made that day seemed simple enough, and 15 years later I truly believe I am the one who benefits the most each time I greet a service member, try to offer them my place in line, or offer to buy them lunch. My simple gesture is the least I can do. It brightens my day to see them smile, thank me for taking the time to greet them, and yet they often decline my offer of the gestures-of-gratitude outlined above. They have willingly sacrificed their lives, yet don't want to put me out by accepting lunch, my place in line, etc. That is what I call a humble, selfless, upstanding person.

I have learned how to be a better leader from this experience. Here are the key things I have taken away that have helped me become a better leader:

Be selfless: The military members I have talked with didn't go to war to be recognized and rewarded for "their great work", they went into it to enrich our lives and protect our freedom. If you are leading your team with the intent of looking good, you can't get the most from your people. You have to go into this type of role with the mindset of enriching others lives through your leadership.

Be humble: I haven't ever run into a veteran, or active service member who puffs out their chest and tells me how amazing they are - though in my opinion they should. They have each been humble, and are quick to talk about the fact that they are part of something great. Leaders who focus on being part of the team, rather than the head of the team, often find themselves part of something great.

Be upstanding: Every military service member I have conversed with has been upstanding. They truly have tried to do what is in the best interest of others, and in the short conversations have highlighted their personal integrity through some rough challenges. As leaders, we have that same responsibility. There will certainly be tough times where decisions have to be made, and actions taken. Leveraging our integrity to make decisions, particularly when they are difficult ones, will guide the best possible outcome. Even when it may not be optimal in others eyes, your team will respect the decisions when you display a high level of integrity at all times.

Be Grateful: Though your employees aren't putting their life on the line for your freedom, they are often sacrificing time with their family and other activities they love. Studies have shown time-and-time again that showing your appreciation for employees is one of the best ways to motivate them, help them feel like the work they do is important, and that what they do and how they contribute is meaningful.

Last week I sat at a conference in San Francisco and listened to a former Special Operations leader speak. During the conference he imparted many nuggets of wisdom that reminded me of my own learnings from watching great men like him. It gave me a huge sense of pride to see him in his executive role. I am certain his team enjoys working with him, and that has helped him in his success.

In reading some of his contributions to the business world I came across an article he wrote for service men and women transitioning into the business world. I thought the points he made were certainly wise, but beneficial to me as a teammate to a war Veteran. If you are a veteran, a teammate to a veteran, or lead one of these great veterans you should check out his article (click here).