I recently watched Fury, a movie about a WWII tank crew that stuck together as they laid down their lives for one another. It reminded me of my time in the Marine Corps where I was inducted into a band of brothers who all believed in one thing: that we could do anything if we looked out for each other. This didn’t happen overnight; it happened through many challenges that were not fun at the time, but when we were done, we had accomplished the task at hand and we did it together. This experience laid a foundation of trust that will last the rest of my life. Have you ever wondered why so many Marines tattoo the EGA (Eagle Globe and Anchor) on their shoulder? Because we believe in this statement: “Once a Marine, always a Marine.” I have been out of the Marines for a decade now and I believe without a doubt that I am still a Marine. I would do anything for a Marine in need and as far as I am concerned they are my brothers until I leave this world.
Many of us have seen this sense of teamwork in movies, but have you ever experienced a time where your team really bonded together and looked out for each other through a challenge? I know that during my experience in the Marines, we all knew that we had common values and beliefs. It was when we focused on others during those challenging times that we were drawn to each other and looked out for each other. The great thing about times when I cared about others more than myself is when I found true fulfillment. This is when I have found that trust is earned.
When was the last time that you did something for the guy next to you, for your people, for your peer or for your boss? Your leadership example could help to cement the trust that is needed to take your organization, department or people to the next level. It starts with you. Are you up for the challenge? Lean into it and find true fulfillment. Hopefully this video will inspire you like it did me.
