The Compass, The Anchor, and The Destination: Charting Your Course for Success​

I enjoyed the privilege of leading one of Australia’s premier military ensembles as the Director of Music of the Royal Australian Navy Band from July 2002 until January 2012. Today, I own and operate a small printing franchise—Minuteman Press Liverpool.

When I left the Royal Australian Navy, I found myself navigating a significant sea change. Yet I quickly discovered that the core values of the organisation I had just left were alive and well within the Minuteman Press culture. This alignment made my transition into new waters surprisingly smooth. I also learned that the military skill sets I had honed over decades transferred seamlessly into the civilian small-business environment. From firsthand experience, I know that veterans can adapt and thrive in business because the principles and discipline of military service translate directly into entrepreneurial capability.

This article is the first in a series where I draw upon my military experience to illuminate the parallels between military doctrine and the skill sets required to own and operate a small business. I hope these insights will serve veterans considering a change in sea state, as well as entrepreneurs navigating the unpredictable tides of small-business ownership.

Inspired Thoughts Create Inspired Journeys

“Inspired thoughts create inspired dreams.” In military language, that sentiment becomes: “An inspired mission creates an inspired vision.”

Yet whether in business or in life, mission and vision alone are never enough. Inspiration must be turned into action. Success requires intention, discipline, and a clearly defined course. We shape that course through well-articulated goals and well-considered strategies—the bearings and charts that keep our vessel on track toward its destination. But even the best strategies must be supported by a culture grounded in strong values and beliefs. Without values, strategy has no compass.

“Values are like fingerprints.” Each of us possesses values—things that matter deeply—and no two people share an identical set. What is important is understanding where you feel most focused, energised, structured, and engaged. Your purpose is driven by your values. When you recognise and act in alignment with them, you expand your potential and empower your life.

These values and beliefs define Who You Are and What You Stand For. They are your anchor and your true north—the unwavering constants that fuel success both individually and organisationally.

Charting a Unified Course

When I became the Royal Australian Navy’s 8th Director of Music, I understood that for the Navy Band to maintain the confidence of senior leadership, the organisation needed to evolve. At that time, seven separate bands existed across the nation—each moving in its own direction.

We needed unity, clarity, and renewal. So, we set about determining “who we were” and “the horizon we were intentionally steering toward as one organisation.”

From that effort, the One Band concept was born. It became our strategic keel—providing purpose, stability, and a competitive edge. This steady wind in our sails propelled our success and ultimately earned the Navy Band its world-class reputation for excellence in musical service.

Your Navigational Stars

I close this first article with three questions—questions that serve as navigational stars guiding both your personal and professional voyage. Your answers will reveal profound insights into your purpose, your direction, and your potential for success:

Who Are You?

What Do You Stand For?

Where Are You Headed?