Posted on Apr 29, 2016
Leaders, have you ever taken on a pet project with a soldier?
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I am currently working with a young Soldier who had trouble on her last APFT. Due to geographic separation, I am texting a few times a day and sending her links to things that will keep her goal in mind. So far she has been responding to my efforts with enthusiasm.
As I clarified in some of the responses below, the "pet" aspect of the project is my own development. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and trying to be a more positive motivational leader.
As I clarified in some of the responses below, the "pet" aspect of the project is my own development. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and trying to be a more positive motivational leader.
Training
Physical Training
APFT
Leadership
Edited >1 y ago
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 9
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I wouldn't necessarily call it a pet project. You're doing what NCOs do - lead, guide, train, and motivate their Soldiers. With all the additional responsibilities that get heaped on to NCOs, along with some of the authority that has been taken away, it's great to see that you are still making time to help a junior Soldier succeed, despite geographical barriers.
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SGT William Howell
SFC (Join to see) Well done. While CPT (Join to see) is correct that NCOs should give every soldier the tools to succeed, it rarely happens like it should. I say well done and expand your helping of your soldiers.
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SGT William Howell
SFC (Join to see) I had a NCO that took me through my time until I made NCO. Then I transferred. I could still call him up at any time if I had a question. He made me a good soldier and a great NCO. I wish you the same with your soldiers.
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Sgt (Join to see)
Exactly. People think its a pet project bc it doesnt happen much anymore. In reality this is just normal NCO looking after their juniors like they should be
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Absolutely, nothing better than working with someone willing and able who just needs the how.
And not just soldiers. When I was in cadet command, I had a 4th year who had not yet passed her CWST..and she was headed to CLC in just a few weeks.
Daily pool sessions took place every morning before class or PT on PT days. She was never late, never skipped, never begged off because "Thirsty Thursdays' was just too much last night.
She learned to conquer her fear of the water, learn the skills required, and compleated the prereq for CLC as well as completed the same task at camp that year.
And not just soldiers. When I was in cadet command, I had a 4th year who had not yet passed her CWST..and she was headed to CLC in just a few weeks.
Daily pool sessions took place every morning before class or PT on PT days. She was never late, never skipped, never begged off because "Thirsty Thursdays' was just too much last night.
She learned to conquer her fear of the water, learn the skills required, and compleated the prereq for CLC as well as completed the same task at camp that year.
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I think the fact that you are keeping in touch with hey, giving her advice and continuing to guide her is what's driving her, keep it up brother. Your setting a good example, just wouldn't call it a pet project.
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SFC (Join to see)
As I stated in a response above, the "pet" aspect is my personal development. I am stepping out of my comfort zone to be a more positive and involved leader. But I do see how I did not communicate that well in the initial description. It sounds like I consider the soldier a pet
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