JOINT BASE CHARLESTON –
The Air Force is very good about giving Airmen wake-up calls. Perhaps it's a failed physical fitness test or not receiving an award or school nomination because you didn't complete the appropriate level of professional military education. These wake-up calls generally begin with a verbal warning, then progress to written until the next thing you know, you've been deferred for promotion or even separated from the Air Force.
Instead of waiting for the Air Force to give you that wake-up call, why not take the opportunity this new year to wake yourself up?
Gear one, some, or all of your new year's resolutions toward preventing these wake-up calls. Maybe in 2011 you'll begin a good running program. Maybe you'll use the great, free fitness services on base or see the folks at the Health and Wellness Center to get set up with a healthy eating class, or maybe finally quit smoking.
Of course, these wake-up calls don't have to be about your health. There's never a better time to sign up for PME or school than now. Your workload doesn't lessen as you earn rank. So go ahead and sign up for those classes, get your PME done and earn your associates, bachelors or masters degree. Both the NCO and SNCO Creeds charge Airmen with taking advantage of on and off-base educational programs to enhance their professional development. Don't wait for the Air Force to tell you what you should have done, do it before it becomes a factor.
And for those who are already doing well, great. Now it's time to focus some of that energy on others. Once again, the NCO and SNCO Creeds charge Airmen with encouraging and motivating others. Be a good wingman and help those who need it. It's up to us as supervisors, friends and wingmen to motivate, encourage and give them the time they need to excel next year.
And for those who need a little more encouragement, there's nothing wrong with asking for help if you need it. I've seen it many times in our squadron. Someone just wants that little bit of reassurance and help on their PFT. So, a wingman paces them throughout the run - keeps them motivated and on time. It helps the one Airman do better and gives the pacer a chance to help someone who needs it.
The new year is just around the corner. Make it a great one and give yourself that wake-up call today.