The PME Mindset: Steady Makes The Day


“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” In this episode, I cover my approach to another round of Professional Military Education. These phases in a military career can be overwhelming at times and not always what you expect or want, so I provide my thoughts on how to make the most out of these experiences.

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Summary

  • I’m currently a student at Joint and Combined Warfighting School at the National Defense University
  • JCWS is 10-week course that is 100% virtual, so it is on me to stay disciplined
  • I established an early battle rhythm to train, read, and work on my assignments. Stay balanced and don’t think too far ahead. Steady makes the day.
  • I also volunteered for the Knowledge Manager role, setting up some collaboration platforms. Working in a max telework environment has primed us to use different tools dynamically so we can better manage our time.
  • I am partnered up with a Soldier and Marine on our capstone paper, excited to see where that goes
  • Organization is key. Know what is due now and around the corner so you can prioritize your workloads. Plan milestones to make sure you are on track.
  • Be thoughtful in your reading, but not serious. 
  • Endurance will be key. Don’t get burned out, and don’t let up too much. Just like a workout, have a strategy before you go in and you’ll better manage yourself through all of the sets and reps.