Courage is an essential trait for a soldier, encompassing both physical and moral aspects. Physical courage involves overcoming fear in dangerous situations, while moral courage involves standing by one’s beliefs even in the face of disapproval from superiors. A military leader’s ability to make tough decisions hinges on their courage, and without it, they cannot succeed. A leader who lacks courage will lose the respect and support of their subordinates.
In addition to courage, a military leader must possess a prominent and benevolent personality. It is not enough to be influential; one must also be kind-hearted and exhibit qualities such as honesty, humility, and a willingness to sacrifice for others. Indonesian forefathers identified eight important personality traits for good leaders, known as hasta brata, which include being broad-minded, a guiding light, a source of hope, steadfast in beliefs, understanding, warm-hearted, inspiring, and a source of positive energy.
Loyalty is another crucial trait for a military leader, encompassing unwavering allegiance to the country, the nation, and the people. True loyalty is demonstrated through commitment to one’s organization, dedication to comrades, and prioritizing the interests of one’s subordinates. Leaders who blame their subordinates in difficult times or take credit for their successes will ultimately lose the trust and support of their team.
Professional skills and capabilities are also essential for a successful military leader. Mastery of one’s field, from tactical knowledge to strategic vision, is crucial for effective leadership. Passion is another key element, driving a leader to act decisively and persevere in the face of challenges. A leader’s enthusiasm and drive can inspire their team to achieve victory and overcome obstacles.
Furthermore, physical fitness is necessary for a military leader to lead by example and maintain their role as a role model for their subordinates. Being present at critical moments and places, having forward-thinking and creativity, understanding cybernetics, and being prepared for Murphy’s Law are all important aspects of successful military leadership. Ultimately, a sense of responsibility and the ability to inspire and motivate others are critical for a military leader to achieve success and effectively lead their team.
