What do leaders rely on to better predict and influence the behavior of Marines?

Leaders rely on personal values to better predict and influence the behavior of Marines because personal values encompass the fundamental beliefs and principles that guide individual behavior and decision-making. Understanding these values allows leaders to connect with Marines on a deeper level, fostering trust and rapport. When leaders are aware of what their Marines value—be it honor, commitment, loyalty, or integrity—they can align their leadership approach to inspire or motivate them effectively.

Personal values also play a critical role in shaping how Marines perceive their roles, responsibilities, and the overall mission. Leaders who recognize and respect the diverse values within their unit can more effectively tailor their communication and decision-making processes to resonate with their Marines, ultimately leading to enhanced morale and cohesion within the team.

In contrast, organizational structure, military history, and operational techniques, while important, do not provide the same direct insight into the individual motivations or behaviors of Marines. Organizational structure focuses on the hierarchy and roles within the unit, military history offers lessons from past events but does not directly influence current behavior, and operational techniques are methods for executing tasks that do not necessarily address personal motivations. Understanding personal values is therefore paramount for leaders aiming to effectively guide their Marines in both performance and personal development.