The Army has alot of history and tradition but I have to admit it gets lost in the day to day life of being a Soldier-a leader.  As I walk into the day of IPRs, briefings, and updates, I do not revel in the study of warfare or the insightful quotes of Thucydides.  Maybe that is what I should be reading during lunch, but I think not.  A nap is more essential to finishing the day strong-if I take a lunch.

So here at Intermediate Level Education (ILE), I have the opportunity to read about great and not so great leaders.  I get to hear from others on their experiences and lessons learned.  I actually study military history and leadership!  I can be so busy trying to be a good leader, that I forget to pause and evaluate.  In the daily world, success is often determined by the outcome, but it is not always relational.  No one on the blotter this weekend? Great, you must be a good commander!  Now I get to evaluate my motives, my methods, and the second and third order of effects that occurred. 

I plan to take full opportunity to grow here at ILE.  I can mourn my failures, but also put them to rest.  I can move forward without the "dailyness" of unit living.  And hopefully, I can carry over something upon my re-entry to the reall world.  Well, time will tell, but until then, I am looking forward to growing.

"The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government."

Sonia S Williams

CPT, SC

Fort Gordon ILE Student