Ever wonder why the Army spends so much time worrying about whether a uniform is pressed, shoes are polished and so forth? Seems strange at first blush until you consider that it’s not just about cleanliness, it’s about a state of mind that helps create order and get things done.
Check this out from the list of duties for a First Sergeant: The way Army privates look is also an important aspect of military life. First sergeants are responsible for making sure all their soldiers are clean and properly dressed, have made their beds and kept their living quarters clean. All clothes need to be clean and neatly pressed and soldiers must all be groomed with the Army’s code of cleanliness. This monitoring and control all plays into the discipline associated with being an Army soldier and not diverting from opinions or orders that might be given in the future.
So it is when managing any group or organization for maximum positive potential. Set a standard of conduct, in service of a meaningful goal and then measure the small things to make sure the big things get done right.
