Working as a Combat Ready Leadership Instructor
June 3, 2023
Who is Louis Zezeran, Combat Ready Instructor?
March 13, 2024New team member - who is Siim Saliste?
For me, becoming independent came naturally; I was already quite self-reliant as a child. What military service taught me was self-discipline and responsibility. You can call it “manning up” if you prefer. It’s a subjective interpretation. Military service doesn’t define your adulthood; you have to actively choose to grow into it. In my younger years, I may have been too naive to grasp this concept. I needed mentors who could guide me toward asking questions I didn’t know how to articulate. If you can’t ask, unfortunately, you can’t answer.
From my military service, I discovered my life’s calling.
My interest in leadership deepened, and the military, especially in infantry roles, offered ample opportunities. Here, the strength and success hinge on the individual — both mentally and physically fit.
Over almost three decades, I’ve had the chance to lead teams of various sizes. Occasionally, I played the role of a simple team member, providing a unique perspective that allowed me to observe and learn from the leadership styles of others. Solely advancing through the ranks in your career may sever the connection with those who anticipate a personalized approach from you, viewing you as Leader, as a Parent. It’s akin to raising a child, and that’s the reality of it.
We make good parents because we’ve been kids (followers), surrounded by peers, and as adults, we precisely know the kind of parents (Leaders) we aspire to become — though whether it works in practice is a different story. Leadership is an ongoing learning experience.
As a soldier, I’ve traversed the globe, gaining valuable insights into universal leadership factors and those that are culturally diverse.
I’ve shared my experiences through lectures and discussions at various military academies in Europe, Oceania and North America. I emphasize the importance of sharing personal experiences. We all have stories to tell. By sharing our mistakes, we spare future leaders from learning the hard way and empower them to navigate their own paths of trial and error.
I joined the Combat Ready team for a purpose. Their mission is compelling, and the team comprises experienced individuals.
“Soldier On”!
Siim Saliste
