"The Program" part I: First Impression

I was lucky enough to have an opportunity to observe a collegiate sports team go through something known simply as "The Program". The Program is a leadership development company that uses military-type exercises to build better leaders and more cohesive teams. Over the course of 2 days (or more, depending on the coach's preference), teams are tested physically but also mentally in order to develop into a cohesive unit with clear direction.

The two instructors sent in to work with this group were very esteemed military servicemen, who's experience on the battlefield is jaw-dropping. One, a long time Navy seal with 6 combat deployments to the most hostile environments on the planet. The other, a member of the British Special Forces and Green Beret. From their resumes alone, these men are tough. Members of the military elite are trained to endure the most stressful, chaotic, and demanding situations imaginable, all the while maintaining precise focus and undaunted concentration at the task at hand. While fortunately few people will ever find themselves making important decisions while being shot at, there are valuable lessons for everyone to be learned from these brave individuals.

Following introductions and a brief lecture to the team (set to go through the rigorous Program), I accompanied the coaches and instructors from the meeting room to the University's pool where the first activity was taking place. The instructors were making small talk about their military backgrounds and also reflecting on there reactions to September 11th which held it's 11th anniversary recently. While walking through the parking lot approaching the pool, one of the instructors did something that defined the entire Program experience for me. Mid-sentence, he diverted his path, walked over to a discarded wrapper sitting underneath a car tire, picked it up, and walked the distance to a not-very-nearby trash can. That was it. That was all that happened. No mention was made of it, and everyone just continued the conversation.

The reason that I've taken the time to write about this seemingly insignificant event is, it exemplifies the level of character these two instructors possess. He didn't ask who had dropped the wrapper, or assume that some one else would pick it up, or dismiss it because it didn't effect his life. He picked it up because it was the right thing to do. To live a life full of decisions made for the benefit of others is a worthy and righteous cause. This selflessness would go on to be a core tenet of The Program, but I am glad I had a chance to see it embodied by some one who truly lives by that principle. The two keys to being a great leader (according to The Program) are to accomplish the mission, and to make every decision with the best interest of the warrior to your left and to your right in mind. If you ever get a chance to spend time with truly great leaders, you will see that leadership is not reserved for competition or adverse situations. Rather, leadership is a principle to live by.