JJ Buckle did it!

At a recent workshop for my church, I learned about JJ BUCKLE. There are fourteen traits and attributes that every leader in any field possess. JJ BUCKLE DID IT! is an acronym used to remember all the traits. Turns out the US Marine Corp uses a slightly different version: JJ DID TIE BUCKLE.

No one has all fourteen traits, but nearly everyone in a leadership role has most of these traits.

Do you have what it takes to be a leader? Absolutely!

Justice is the practice of being fair and consistent. A just person gives consideration to each side of a situation and bases rewards or punishments on merit.

Judgement is the ability to think about things clearly, calmly and in an orderly fashion so that you can make good decisions.

Bearing is the way you conduct and carry yourself. Your manner should reflect alertness, competence, confidence, and control.

Unselfishness is making yourself uncomfortable for the benefit of others. Put others first. Be considerate of others. Give credit to those who deserve it.

Courage is what allows you to remain calm while recognizing fear. Moral courage means having the inner strength to stand up for what is right and to accept blame when something is your fault. Physical courage means that you can continue to function effectively when there is physical danger present.

Knowledge is the understanding of a science or art. Knowledge means that you have acquired information and that you understand people. Your knowledge should be broad, and in addition to knowing your job, you should know policies and keep up with current events.

Loyalty means that you are devoted to your country, your peers and subordinates, family and faith. You owe unwavering loyalty up and down the chain of command.

Endurance is the mental and physical stamina that is measured by your ability to withstand pain, fatigue, stress and hardship.

Dependability means you can be relied upon to perform your duties properly. It means that you can be trusted to complete a job. It is the willing and voluntary support. Dependability also means consistently putting forth your best effort in an attempt to achieve the highest standards of performance.

Initiative is taking action even though you haven’t been asked. It means meeting new and unexpected situations with prompt action. It includes using resourcefulness to get something done without the normal material or methods being available to you.

Decisiveness means you are able to make good decisions without delay. Get all the facts and weight them against each other. By acting calmly and quickly, you should arrive at a sound decision. You announce your decisions in a clear, firm, professional manner.

Integrity means that you are honest and truthful in what you say or do. You put honesty, sense of duty, and sound moral principles above all else.

Tact means to deal with people in a manner that will maintain good relations and avoid problems. It means that you are polite, calm, and firm.

(Enthusiasm) is a sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of your duties. If you are enthusiastic, you are optimistic, cheerful, and willing to accept the challenges.

Semper Fidelis!

Working for you,

Stacy