Jocko Podcast 526: The 18 Things That Make You A Bad Soldier and a Bad Leader, In Battle and in Life

This podcast analyzes a 1951 U.S. Army report on characteristics of good and poor combat performance, revealing that success in battle and life hinges on competence, discipline, selflessness, and emotional control, often requiring actions that are counterintuitive to human nature.

• Overcome natural instincts like laziness and fear, as good combat performance and leadership often require counterintuitive choices.

• Master your job, maintain discipline, and take quick, appropriate action to prevent being overwhelmed by challenges.

• Prioritize team well-being, show genuine concern, and balance friendliness with firm, consistent leadership to build trust and achieve mission success.

Jocko Willink and Echo Charles discuss a 1951 U.S. Army Personnel Research Branch report that surveyed combat infantrymen in Korea to identify traits of effective and ineffective soldiers and leaders. The raw, unfiltered responses highlight that competence (combat know-how), resilience under pressure, quick appropriate action, and maintaining composure are critical for good combat men, while leaders must also direct well, provide care and training, and demonstrate loyalty and self-confidence. The discussion emphasizes that many essential qualities are counterintuitive, requiring individuals to actively overcome natural human tendencies towards laziness, fear, and self-preservation.

Combat Know-How & Competence

• 00:03:31 Good combat men possess 'combat know-how,' which includes proficiency with weapons, understanding fieldcraft, and strategic positioning. This foundational competence is seen as paramount for individual soldiers. Similarly, good combat leaders demonstrate know-how by effectively directing men under fire, knowing where to position troops, and making sound tactical decisions.

• 00:13:07 Mastery of one's job, regardless of its perceived simplicity, is crucial; becoming an expert in a specific role (e.g., a 'fry guy' at a fast-food restaurant) builds the foundation for promotion and greater responsibility. This commitment to excellence and continuous learning is a universal principle for success, contrasting sharply with those who lack interest or require constant supervision.

Action & Resilience Under Pressure

• 00:14:17 A key trait of good combat men is their ability to stick to the job when faced with adversity, exhibiting unwavering determination even in the toughest conditions, such as continuous enemy fire or injury. They are also quick to take appropriate action, not necessarily perfect action, but effective responses that resolve immediate threats or help comrades. This bias for action and aggressive mindset prevents the 'world from happening to you,' where inaction leads to being overwhelmed by challenges, akin to nature reclaiming an untended house.

Emotional Control & Calmness

• 00:22:18 Remaining calm under fire is an essential characteristic of both good combat men and leaders, demonstrating the importance of keeping emotions in check. It is critical to appear externally calm, even if not feeling it internally, as this suppression helps in gaining actual control over one's emotions. Leaders who maintain composure inspire confidence and stability in their men, preventing further disarray during chaotic situations.

Team Focus & Personal Traits

• 00:23:53 Good combat men show genuine concern for others in their group, helping teammates without interfering unnecessarily and sharing resources. Poor combat men, conversely, are described as personally incompatible, often complaining, lying, or being entirely self-centered, which degrades unit cohesion and effectiveness. This highlights that being liked and demonstrating consideration and cooperation within a team is surprisingly crucial, even in the disciplined military environment.

Discipline & Orderliness

• 00:24:32 Being orderly and clean, both personally and with equipment, is a surprisingly consistent characteristic noted in good combat men. This extends to maintaining one's uniform, weapons, and living space, indicating a level of preparedness and attention to detail. This 'squared away' demeanor subconsciously signals reliability and competence to others, influencing how they perceive an individual's overall capability, even in non-combat settings.

Leadership Principles & Consistency

• 00:33:41 Effective combat leaders are friendly, respectful, and loyal to their men, treating them well and fighting for their rights, which fosters trust and high morale. Simultaneously, they must 'let men know he's boss' by being tough when necessary, maintaining discipline, and giving clear, concise orders without resentment. Consistency in leadership, avoiding unpredictable temperamental shifts, is paramount for subordinates to respect and reliably follow directives, much like the consistency required from parents.