Broaden Where You’re Planted: The Necessity of Broadening for Leader Development and Effectiveness

In the late 19th century, Eliza Scidmore discovered the beauty of the Japanese flowering cherry tree. Her interesting story of vision and perseverance to bring this beauty to Washington D.C. is analogous to the opportunity for growth and broadening facing military leaders, specifically Army chaplains today. This article introduces and defines the concept of broadening in the Army, describes the importance of broadening, and casts a vision for the key stakeholders of the Army Chaplain Corps to approach the developmental broadening opportunities facing Army chaplains today. It emphasizes the need for a broadening mindset among chaplains, encouraging them to view every assignment as a chance for growth, irrespective of its classification as a broadening assignment. Key stakeholders, including chaplains, the Office of the Army Chief of Chaplains Personnel Division, and operational leaders, are urged to foster an environment where continuous learning and engagement are paramount.