Loop Communications Honors Veterans Day
When I joined the Marine Corps, I was a college drop-out working at a grocery store with no plan. I knew I had to do something drastic to push me as far out of my comfort zone as possible, and boy did I. The Marine Corps gave me a place to be taught, and learn, how to adult. How to work with different types of people, understand strengths and weaknesses, and most importantly, how to fail and how to learn from that failure.
Throughout my time in the Marine Corps, I gained invaluable life lessons that I still carry with me today. These lessons have shaped not only my personal growth but also my professional journey here at Loop Communications.
My name is James McKinney, Found Partner and President, here are some of the my takeaways:
1. Plan to Adapt, or You’re Planning to Fail
The Marine Corps euphemism is “Adapt and Overcome,” but it’s about knowing that some variables you didn’t account for are going to show up, and you better be prepared to adjust, or you’re going to fail in your mission. As a famous quote by Mike Tyson goes, “Everyone has a plan till they get punched in the mouth.” Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for success in any endeavor.
2. Your Ability to Succeed is Only as Good as Those Around You
Surround yourself with people who don’t think like you but have the same values. In the Marine Corps, this is achieved through an overwhelming culture of honor, sacrifice, and loyalty. At Loop Communications, we strive to build a similar environment by hiring individuals who share our core values of integrity, service, empathy, and camaraderie. We understand that the collective effort of a high-performing team is crucial to achieving success.
3. Failure is Not the End; It’s a Learning Opportunity
Failure should never be feared but embraced as a valuable learning experience. The Marine Corps instilled in me the belief that failure is not the end; it’s just a way of discovering how not to do something. By embracing failure and learning from our mistakes, we grow stronger and become better equipped to overcome future challenges.
4. Your Team Is More Important Than Your Ego
It is essential to prioritize the success of your team over personal ego. In the Marine Corps, I learned that teamwork and collaboration are key to achieving objectives. This lesson applies to any organization or business. By putting the needs of the team ahead of personal interests, everyone can contribute their unique strengths and work towards a common goal.
5. Correct and Move On
Holding onto grudges and resentment can hinder personal growth and cloud judgment. It is important to acknowledge mistakes, correct them, and move forward. By doing so, we maintain clarity of purpose and focus on what truly matters.
6. Understand Your Team’s Strengths and Weaknesses
To maximize the potential of your team, it is vital to understand their individual strengths and weaknesses. By leveraging their strengths and providing opportunities for growth and development, you empower your team members to excel and reach their full potential. Furthermore, creating a path for growth, even if it means they move beyond your circle, demonstrates your commitment to their success.
7. Own Your Mistakes
Taking ownership of your failures and mistakes is crucial for building trust within your team. When you acknowledge your own mistakes openly and honestly, your teammates will do the same. This fosters an environment of transparency and trust, enabling collective growth and continuous improvement.
In honor of Veterans Day, Loop Communications recognizes and appreciates the invaluable lessons and qualities veterans bring to the workforce. The dedication, discipline, and resilience nurtured in the armed forces contribute to the success of individuals and organizations alike.
At Loop, we celebrate the spirit of Veterans Day by embodying these principles and striving for excellence in all aspects. By embracing the lessons learned from our veterans, we aim to create a supportive and collaborative environment that empowers our team members to achieve their fullest potential.