Jocko Podcast

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

Feb 4, 2026
A breakdown of a 1951 infantry study highlights battlefield traits that make or break soldiers and leaders. They cover combat know-how, staying calm under fire, and taking quick, appropriate action. Discussion includes caring for the team, equipment readiness, learning fast, and balancing friendliness with firm, fair leadership. The show also calls out selfishness, cowardice, and negligence as career-ending behaviors.
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INSIGHT

Master Your Job First

  • Combat know-how and steady performance are the core predictors of good combat work and leadership.
  • Mastery of your job trumps charisma and is the foundation for trust and promotion.
INSIGHT

Respect Builds Combat Effectiveness

  • Being liked and cooperative is vital even in military units that prize obedience.
  • Personal compatibility and fairness strongly influence team performance.
ADVICE

Act Quickly, Not Perfectly

  • Take quick, appropriate action instead of waiting for perfect information.
  • Make pragmatic moves that solve the problem now and improve outcomes.
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