Introduction

I received my posting order in July 2021. I would be returning to a previous unit where I had served, although its name and structure had changed following the Health Capability Establishment Review (CER). The resultant 2nd Health Battalion (2 HB) is the amalgamation of 11 Close Health Company (11 CHC), 2nd General Health Battalion (2 GHB), 3rd Health Support Battalion (3 HSB) and 1/5 Health Support Company (1/5 HSC). The other major difference was that I would be the most senior pharmacist with the expectations of establishing the ‘new’ pharmacy. One wonders how ready I would be.

Born ready

Is leadership inherent or nurtured? If I am not imbued with these characteristics, am I condemned to being an ineffective leader? Tick and untick. Tick, because I seemed to have shone in this area throughout my 16 schooling years in Malaysia. Untick, because I seem to have lost it since migrating to Australia.

Education ready

There are many theories surrounding the topic of leadership. Books, podcast and courses on leadership are in abundance, proving the theory of supply and demand. Their popularity also made me wonder whether leadership could be learnt through education. Tick: I have completed a Masters in Health Management and we covered one subject on leadership, focusing on how to lead clinicians who are used to having complete autonomy when dealing with their patients.

Nike – Just Do It 

Perhaps I should just boldly step into the breach to lead the pharmacy, with the grandiose goal to make 2 HB pharmacy a success post the Health Capability Establishment Review (CER). Nonetheless, my concerns and inadequacies kept me grounded. I knew I must humbly seek guidance (including from my subordinates), put in the hard work, and learn through trials and errors. I wonder how the OC does it, taking care of 15 times more soldiers – and the CO with 100 times more.

Too busy to worry too much 

From the moment the year started, we were bombarded with task after task. During the busy period we were losing staff members to COVID-19 and its compulsory self-isolation for close contacts while having to contend with career courses, understanding what it means to have SERCAT 5 pharmacists parading with us, and the realisation that 1/5 HSC health assets require a high level of support from 2 HB pharmacy.

What seems to have worked includes common goals and unity, knowledge sharing, tolerance and communication, mindfulness in feedback, and thoughtfulness.

Mutual goals at a place where a cord of three strands is not easily broken

We are united in our goal to make 2 HB pharmacy a successful, safe, and inclusive workplace where both personal and work goals are satisfied. We watch out for one another and we protect the reputation of each pharmacy member. To help the pharmacy stay united, we aim to be kind and compassionate with each other, forgiving of one another, and focusing on the different strengths that each member brings.

Sharing of knowledge

Despite rank, years of service, or age: one person does not know it all. It is in the passing on of information and experience that we build the team up. In the process, the ‘teachers’ always end up learning more as well. Similarly, we must not rob other people of the joy of teaching and the growth that follows by asking questions.

Tolerance and communication

Like any family, this work family experiences family feuds. We do not always see eye to eye but we could agree to disagree, keep an open mind and work to honour the mutual goals. Further, what we encounter and perceive personally, though real to us, could be incorrect. Therefore, we seek to see things from the other person’s perspective and try to never take things personally. It is not always about us. Indeed, it is normally not about us. If unsure, reach out and communicate. Genuine openness could resolve a lot of misunderstanding.

Giving feedback, think thrice

It is not easy giving constructive feedback and making the exercise a mutually satisfying one. To guard me against criticising my subordinates due to my own fear or inadequacies, I ask myself the motives behind the intention. If the motive is right, I then ask myself whether the other party is going to be receptive and benefit from the feedback. Finally, I will think of the best way to convey what I want to say and to express it thoughtfully.

One Size Does Not Fit All

I have also witnessed a big leap of growth when the right people are put forward to do the right tasks. Each team member is unique. Even though it takes more effort to ‘work with them’, the outcome is more rewarding when their individuality and needs are catered for. 

Education and DNA

Coming back to the importance of the role of education in my leadership. If anything, the exposure to various theories on leadership served to provide the confidence required to lead. The ‘education’, coupled with practice and the extra dose of patience from subordinates, has served to compensate and facilitate the genetic component in me.

Conclusion

I have enjoyed my time serving alongside you, my pharmacy colleagues at 2 HB. The experience has enhanced me as an Army Officer, a pharmacist, and a person. I am grateful for the opportunity to enable, grow and propel you as I serve along each and every one of you. It is an honour and a privilege.

Like President George Washington, I do not dare to think that I have not made any mistakes. Please forgive me my shortfalls despite my best intentions. All the best for your remaining time at 2 HB and beyond.