How do lessons from the Marine Corps apply to women?

The most valuable lessons we learned in the Marine Corps relate to leadership. The Marine Corps believes every Marine must know how to lead in order to ensure success in battle. Leaders have the ability to influence outcomes and inspire others. War is chaotic and Marines are trained to bring calm to chaos through decisiveness, serving others, meeting and exceeding performance standards and keeping their emotions in control.

Women face many challenges in today’s fast-paced world. The leadership lessons taught in the Marines can be applied to every woman’s life as she seeks work/life balance. Many women do not consider themselves leaders, but once they realize that there are many areas of their lives where they need to influence outcomes and inspire others, they begin to recognize their leadership potential. Women face many challenges in today’s fast-paced world. The leadership lessons taught in the Marines can be applied to every woman’s life as she seeks work/life balance. Many women do not consider themselves leaders, but once they realize that there are many areas of their lives where they need to influence outcomes and inspire others, they begin to recognize their leadership potential.

The title of your book is 'Leading from the Front.' What does that mean?

The Marine Corps believes that if you want to be a leader you must understand the philosophy of leading from the front. 'Leading from the Front' is a way of life for all Marines. Simply stated, it means that you have to set the example and continuously take initiative. You can’t lead from the back of the pack. 'Leading from the Front' means that you can and do meet the standards you ask others to meet. Many people who claim they are leaders fail. We all know a boss, or even a friend, who has held us to one, much higher standard, while he or she sets an example of a much lower one. People who don’t 'Leading from the Front' eventually have a tough time influencing outcomes or inspiring others. Sure, they might have a fancy job title or position, but they aren’t a true leader. True leaders lead by setting an example for their co-workers, friends and family.