Norms are the rules or laws normally based on agreed beliefs and values that members of a group follow to live in harmony. These norms can be written rules or unwritten standards. For example, we all can agree that murder is wrong - that is a norm. You do not have to be religious to consider that point. Most formal norms govern behavior. For the military, uniform regulations are written standards. In the business world, office polices are written norms.
Informal norms govern the behavior of group members. For the Marines, no Marine is left behind. This is a norm that doesn't have to be written down; it is standard. Such rules are usually garnered from shared values and beliefs.
The Importance of Beliefs, Values, and Norms
All three guide the actions of individuals and groups. They give direction, meaning, and purpose in life.
These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel. Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young. Proverbs 1:1-4 (NLT)Beliefs, values, and norms also teach people wisdom and discipline; understanding; how to live disciplined and successful lives; to help them do what is right, just, and fair; and are all something we should use to teach the upcoming generations or rising leaders.
Individual values, beliefs, and attitudes are shaped by past experiences involving family, school, work, and social relationships. Leaders must understand the importance of nurturing and shaping beliefs and values in those they lead because they are fundamental motivating factors.
Influencing Beliefs, Values, and Norms
Leaders influence beliefs and values by setting examples; recognizing behavior that support professional beliefs, values, and norms; and by planning, executing, and assessing though, realistic training.
Understand that tough training is not hazing or yelling at your people - such things should never have a place in a leaders repertoire. Don't create an atmosphere of antagonism (an us against them mentality). Tough training pushes you and your people to the limits in a mutual learning experience to understand the abilities of the team as well as to show them who they can count on when undergoing a specific task.
Tough training conducted to standards will teach your people to do things they did not dream possible. Tough training instills confidence in the team and in your leadership. As a leader you must respect your team and earn their respect if you are to influence their beliefs and values. For the military this is very important because subordinates respect rank outright but you must demonstrate your character, knowledge, and professional skills if you are to gain their genuine respect for who you are.
Women in the officer corp stood a tough climb in earning respect from male counterparts and male subordinates. I learned a lot from the women I came into contact with over the years in the military. One was a cadet at West Point who came to train at my MOS school in Alabama. She was fantastic. She could out march any of us (while carrying a larger load than us). She understood her material and wasn't afraid of sharing her knowledge. She definitely had my respect, and I would have followed her without hesitation. Another was a Lieutenant in my military police company. I really didn't know what to expect of her, but when she pushed her platoon, she was always leading the way. It is inspiring to watch people overcome great odds in order to achieve great goals.
Through proper influence, you will gain the right to set the norms of your team. Your team will work towards excellence when they understand and see you perform in the beliefs and values that you set. Be a leader by living in your beliefs and values - just make sure you are living within the norms of society and your team's individual beliefs and values.
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