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Listen and learn

“Stupid is, as stupid does,” said the title character in the popular movie, “Forrest Gump.”

The remark resonated because people could relate to it: Everyone endures a certain amount of stupidity in life; on the job, at home and everywhere in between.

What’s really stupid, however, is the failure to fix things that can be fixed.

Intent on identifying and correcting such needless aggravations, Maj. Gen. Michael Oates recently invited readers of his Iraq-based blog, Task Force Mountain Sound Off, to tell him what they consider the Army’s stupidest rules and policies.

The troops weren’t shy: Nearly 100 blasted off responses on idiotic rules, regulations and practices involving the beret, the tape test, inspections and other facts of Army life.

Oates is to be commended for reaching out and for using his blog not to simply post official messages, but rather as a tool for two-way communications.

A new survey on satisfaction in the federal workplace found that strong leadership — the ability to listen and share information — surpassed even pay as the key to making workers happy.

Oates, commander of 10th Mountain Division, said he intends to analyze the input and set about making changes. It is critical that he follow through.

The wise leader not only seeks out input, he acts on it.

Oates’ initiative could well serve as an Armywide model: More such open communication would help boost morale — and perhaps mean fewer stupid rules.