The military is noted for excellent planning, management and leadership. Yet there is one caveat they recognise in all their planning – the maxim coined by German military strategist Helmuth von Moltke, “No battle plan survives contact with the enemy.” Which 
is all about recognising the need for flexibility and being adaptable once implementation begins.
Colonel Michael Musso shares this and other lessons from his 25 year US military career in an article published by the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. These principles translate well into private enterprise for leaders to implement.
The whole article can be found here, and you will need to read it to fully unlock all the lessons and wisdom behind each of these four maxims:
- Don’t run in the Pentagon
- Your best-laid plans may not survive first contact with the rising sun
- Think before moving towards the sound of the guns
- Circulate the battlefield without giving orders
After reading these, take a moment to reflect on your leadership and whether you are being a “tactical” leader.
The Avondale Business School can help you and your team develop leadership skills – find out how by contacting Warrick Long at the Avondale Business School.
P: 02 4980 2168