Leadership Principles Inspired by the Military

Today is Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Nigeria, a moment to honour the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for the nation. For me, it’s also a moment of personal reflection. Having attended a military high school, I recall that daily routine wasn’t just about drills and discipline; it was an immersive experience in cultivating the foundational traits that define exceptional leadership.

Here are three timeless lessons that have stuck with me by observing the military:

1. Discipline In the military, discipline isn't just a word, it is a way of life. Waking up before dawn, attention to detail, and the relentless pursuit of excellence has taught me that discipline is the backbone of success. In the workplace, this translates to consistency, focus, and delivering on commitments, even when motivation wavers.

2. Courage The courage to make tough decisions, to take calculated risks, and to stand firm in the face of challenges is a hallmark of military leadership. In business, courage means standing by your values, innovating when others hesitate, and being willing to fail forward.

3. Resilience If there’s one thing the military teaches, it’s how to adapt and keep going, no matter the odds. Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure, it’s about bouncing back stronger after setbacks. This trait is invaluable for leaders navigating today’s fast-changing world.

Great leaders, whether in uniform, in business or in the society at large, are shaped by their ability to adapt, lead with integrity, and inspire others to rise above challenges.

I’ll leave you with a powerful and inspiring speech delivered by US Admiral McRaven to the University of Texas' 2014 graduating class.