Instill Military Discipline in Your Unit by Enforcing the Army Standards and Leading by Example

If you are looking to improve the military discipline in your unit, I have some helpful hints for you. Here it goes:

1. Lead By Example - This is the starting point to military discipline. Everything starts at the top. Units are a reflection of their leader. If the leader is disciplined, professional and competent, they will inspire the same in their followers. If the leader is not disciplined, neither will the unit.

2. Take Pride in Everything You Do - Be the best. Everyone wants to be part of an undefeated, state-championship caliber team. No one wants to be on a 0-18 Junior Varsity Squad. Do you get the picture? Strive to be the best. It doesn't matter what your mission is. Remember, the job doesn't make the man, the man makes the job. Take pride in everything you do.

3. Enforce the Army Standards to Everyone - Soldiers want you to enforce the standards to everyone, not just the lower enlisted. If you hold EVERYONE accountable to the same standard, you will see morale skyrocket. If your standard is to FLAG someone who fails a physical fitness test, then don't let your staff or senior NCOs and Officers off the hook if they fail. Enforce the standard equally. Finally, the leader should strive to attain the highest standards in everything he or she does personally.

4. Recognize Positive Performance and Punish Poor Performance - Don't make the mistake of just correcting things when you a see a problem. If you are already addressing mistakes and shortcomings, that's good. But, don't forget to praise the people who excel. If you're afraid of confrontation, get over it.

Your job as a leader is to enforce the standards. Be polite and courteous, but address issues as they arise.

When you see something exceptional, don't forget to give the Soldier an "atta boy." Put him in for an award, a unit coin or simply give him a pat on the back. They will appreciate it. And, it will have a positive impact on morale.