Spartans do not ask how many are the enemy but where are they. Plutarch
For those who strive to be a better version of themselves, it is a daily battle. Very few of us perform on a physical battlefield, yet we have our own dragons which need to be slayed. As we prepare for the fight, what are the tools, skills, and weapons of choice? How are the rules of engagement determined? What brought us to where we are now in seeking to maintain integrity in the midst of the pressure and angst of a fierce fight? We are warriors in battles of our own.
Steven Pressfield describes himself as, “I am a writer. I write about war - external wars and internal wars, wars ancient and modern, real wars out of history and imagined wars that only exist only in speculation. Why? I don’t even know myself.” In his writing, he seems to accurately articulate the strength and authenticity of warriors through the ages. In these past 2 years, he has become one of my favorite authors.
The Warrior Ethos is a concise review of the warrior culture and he starts with the Spartans. He notes how the idea of the warrior started with protecting and providing for one’s own tribe. Strong men and women were the foundation of this warrior culture both in battle and at home. It grew into something that is greater than someone’s own personal pride or vendetta. Being a warrior is about honor, integrity, love, selflessness, strength, purpose, persistence, and much more.
Imagination may take us to an idea of a warrior that we have come to idolize in a movie, show, or book. Think about, “What is it about the warrior that captures our mind and spirit?” As I ponder this question, I also ask myself another question, “How can I live in that warrior spirit?”
This book helped me to tap into my own inner struggles and explore how I can better lead others as a warrior. I am asking myself and encourage you to do the same.
Am I humble enough to see my own weaknesses and seek to improve upon them?
Do I live confidently in knowing my strengths and how I can apply them to make myself and others around me have a more significant life?
Can I set my pride aside and boost others as they experience the glory of a conquerer when they face their own dragons?
Am I leading well?
A warrior is not on an island as a single, stoic conquerer. They surround themselves with others who serve key roles in their lives. If we are seeking to live a warrior’s life I propose we need people alongside us:
Mentor - A select few people ahead of us in our journey who can speak wisdom and correction into our lives.
Cohort - Perhaps a larger group than those who mentor us. These are the ones who fight alongside us, shoulder-to-shoulder. We pick each other up when we stumble. Drag each other out of the fray when we are wounded. Share the dark humor of a fellow combatant.
Mentee - A select few individuals who will be able to take our place in the role we currently serve when we are no longer there.
I would recommend reading The Warrior Ethos. It is a clear, concise, and thought-provoking work. It can be a great tool to help you overcome your own adversities, struggles, and battles.
If you are interested in leadership mentoring or coaching. Whether it be a short-term mastermind group or one-on-one, I would be happy help. I can be reached at todd@toddrthomsen.com.