Providing Purpose Purpose gives soldiers a reason why they should do difficult things under dangerous, stressful circumstances. You must establish priorities, explain the importance of missions, and focus soldiers on the task so that they will function in an efficient and a disciplined manner. Providing Direction Direction gives soldiers an orientation of tasks to be accomplished based on the priorities set by the leader. Motivate your soldiers by caring for them, challenging them with interesting training, developing them into a cohesive team, rewarding successes, and giving them all the responsibility they can handle.
Effective leaders use both direct and indirect influence to lead.
You will probably influence your soldiers mainly in a direct manner, but others above you in your chain of command will use more indirect methods. Leadership is the most essential element of combat power. Leading effectively is not a mystery and can be learned through self- study, education, training, and experience. Successful leaders prepare for war by training and leading as they intend to fight. Leadership is the process of influencing others to accomplish the mission by providing purpose, direction, and motivation.