JS Tip 606: JJ DID TIE BUCKLE (What?)

You read it right: “JJ DID TIE BUCKLE.” 

We’ve been talking about leadership. 

Our friend Heather Mickelson of Utah’s Department of Environmental Quality suggested a mnemonic (a memory hook) for critical leadership traits. The hook originated with the Marine Corps: JJ DID TIE BUCKLE. Each letter represents a critical trait. 

Consider the traits. Let us know your thoughts.  

Justice: 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.

Judgment: Your ability to think about things clearly, calmly, and in an orderly fashion so you can make good decisions. 

Dependability: You can be relied upon to perform your duties properly. It means you can be trusted to complete a job. 

Initiative: Taking action even though you haven’t been given orders. It means meeting new and unexpected situations with prompt action. 

Decisiveness: You’re able to make good decisions without delay. Get all the facts and weigh them against each other. 

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

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

Enthusiasm: A sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of your duties. If you’re enthusiastic, you’re optimistic, cheerful, and willing to accept the challenges. 

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

Unselfishness: You avoid making yourself comfortable at the expense of others. You’re considerate of others. 

Courage: 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. 

Knowledge: The understanding of a science or art. Knowledge means that you have acquired information and you understand people. 

Loyalty: You’re devoted to your country, the Corps, and to your seniors, peers, and subordinated. The motto of our Corps is Semper Fidelis: Always faithful.

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

We love these discussions.  

Heather, thank you.