Adaptive Leadership Reflective Essay

Reflecting on module 5 during my time at the Non Commission Officer Academy, I was able to learn and enforce lesson principles to improve my ability to become a more adaptable leader. One lesson principle that I valued the most was the three different elements of adaptability. The reason why I value this principle the most is because I feel that if we are more self aware of how to adapt, or ways to adapt, we will have the knowledge to actually incorporate it. The ability of a leader to change how they think, for example, is the first element listed in Course 15. The basic meaning of this principle is that the person has developed an ability to think of multiple concepts or ideas; moreover, they make changes due to unforeseen circumstances. To continue, emotional adaptability is another characteristic of an adaptive

To control your emotions and to also be aware of your peer or subordinate’s emotions is vital to the progress to becoming a great leader. If a subordinate feels that you are just dismissive of how they feel, they will not come to you for feedback or vice versa, they will most likely provide it. Finally, the last element of an adaptive leader is dispositional adaptability. Every good leader is also a follower; being a good leader is not just a one-way street. The ability or having the characteristic to remain optimistic, but realistic (course 15) is in my opinion very vital. How many times have you worked in a shop and have to complete a task that just does not make sense to you? Do you complain about it for 10 minutes? Or do you complete the task and believe there is a reason why. Keeping a good attitude and remaining optimistic can sway and give you “buy in”