Blc reflective essay

Basic Leaders Course

Reflective Essay 1

“New Chapter”

BLC Class 007-20

Primary Instructor: SSG Elliott

Submitted by: SPC Briones

Roster #: 181

When I joined the Army, I agreed to be professional, to act morally and responsibly, and to serve our country. Now that I progress in my military career as a non-commissioned officer, I agreed to take more responsibility and accountability. I know that I need to develop myself through education, training, and experiences to grow and be able to succeed as a leader. Basic Leader Course (BLC) provided the tools that I needed to become an effective leader. The course helped me realize that everything that I do is not just about satisfying my personal needs. It is about the Soldiers and how my actions impact them negatively or positively. The course helped me create new goals and develop plans for what I would like to achieve for myself.

One of my goals is to become a servant leader because I am eager to help other Soldiers create better versions of them. I will understand the reason behind every poor performance and mistakes before applying any corrective action. I will establish a good relationship with my Soldiers for us to be able to work in unity. I will make an effort to know my Soldiers to maximize their strengths and develop their weaknesses. I will earn the trust and respect of my Soldiers for them to approach me when needed. I will also be kind to my Soldiers by extending myself to them. I will appreciate and encourage them, listen to them, and give credit and praise for the efforts that they make. I will get ideas and suggestions from my Soldiers, encouraging their involvement in the decision-making process to empower them. I accept that I do not know everything and each Soldier is different, and I will need their collaboration so our team will become successful.

Another goal is to use diversity to increase competence in the workplace. I will create an environment where Soldiers are not afraid to be who they are. I want Soldiers to feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities as others. I will value every Soldier for their unique contributions and that they can achieve their highest potential. Accomplishing missions today and into the future requires a team with the broadest possible spectrum of ideas, perspectives, and experiences. We need to draw from America's best to fight and win the Nation's wars in an age of new and emerging threats. The Army needs experience, critical thinking, and creativity in our force. Most importantly, we need teams of people who think differently from one another and yet are joined together in common cause.

Leadership gave me a new purpose, goals, and vision. BLC provided new and essential information that enhances my skills and overall knowledge to become an effective leader. I am ready to transfer what I learned into actionable steps. I also know that leadership and learning are indispensable to each other. As I enter a new chapter in my career, I will use my experiences as a follower to become an effective leader. BLC is a way to prepare me for unlimited possibilities and opportunities that is yet to come. I am confident and ready to become the leader my Soldiers deserve.