CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Who are "They" ?
Have you heard Airmen say "'They' would not let me take leave in conjunction with my three-day pass," or maybe, "'They' said I needed a haircut?" But, who are "they"?
A commander once told me the story of a four-star general with whom he was flying. One of the crewmembers asked him, "General, you are so busy you must have a ton of leave saved up. Do 'they' ever let you take your leave?" The general replied, "'They?' I am 'they.'" I thought about such a simple statement. How many "theys" does it take to equal one "we"?
Let's take a look at the best football team - they have "hydration engineers" that provide "high-quality H2O" to the team. They have trainers that work to prevent injuries, attend to injuries, and make sure players get the best post-game treatment to prep them for the upcoming week's practice. The team is composed of cheerleaders, practice squads, equipment managers, position coaches, and a head coach, each working within their specialty to make the team successful. Without the "waterboy" the team suffers from dehydration. Without the trainers, the team cannot get prepped to perform at 100 percent and may experience prolonged injuries. Without the cheerleaders, the spirits of fans and team are subdued. The head coach may make most of the game-changing decisions, but preparation for the successful team requires every person to do their part.
Team Charleston is no different. Although much more complicated than a
football team, with many more dynamics in the mix, this simple "Waterboy
Analogy" may be applied. However, the most glaring difference is that failure is not an option. When a football team loses, they can go back to their family, and there is always "next week." Should we ever lose, the results are deadly.
That is why it is so important to perform at your 100 percent peak capacity, no matter your level of authority or influence. If you are new to Team Charleston, then train; set the standard for future inbound Airmen! Set the example in every area of your life and prepare to lead now. As you are promoted through the ranks, supervise with integrity, lead with selflessness and perform with excellence. Perhaps the toughest part of being a leader is setting the example. Be an example-setter wherever you are within the leadership continuum and prepare yourself to lead at the next level. When you begin to understand decisions made by the "we," you begin to grasp the bigger picture and you realize where you fit in to make the team successful. Take charge of your career! Take charge of your life! Take charge of your destiny!
If you are a single Airman, "they" may invite you to their home for a family dinner. Go have a great time, and change your journey from a "they" mentality to a "we" mentality.
Have a great Thanksgiving. "We" want you to enjoy yourself and come back refreshed and ready for 100 percent effort to accomplish the mission through the holidays.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!