Commentary: Where to find strength in challenging times

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. M. Todd Hammond
  • 100th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Commander
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  It's Monday morning, it's raining, and I get into the car in blues to drive to work.

On my way in I start thinking about change being the only constant, and that I need to adapt and make a list of those items that need to get done this week and find a way to get them accomplished.

I have contemplated all the deployments, inspections, programs to manage, training to complete, e-mail to respond to and personal requirements (like PT or learning someone else's job). It seems like there is more than I can ever remember, and I wonder where to start. It's easy to get overwhelmed.

Reinforcements don't seem to be coming in as quickly as we need them, and they need training in order to be fully qualified. I find there is little time for quiet reflection and not enough time to visit all the places I should. I realize I have to change in order to prevent overload and find a more balanced way of conducting myself and managing life. I can't stop taking care of myself, the family, or the unit, so what do I change? Where do I start?

First, remember empowerment, trust and integrity - those may not be the reasons you list when you answer why you joined the military, but they sure do keep me focused, worry free and allow me to engage in other things these days.

I really like unleashing the creative power of folks in unit ... it's continually surprising to me how uniquely talented people are and how much they want to contribute. So our job as leaders is to know each person's talents and skills, give them a focused task, set them free and recognize their efforts.

We really have a great enlisted force who knows what is required to make the mission happen. They just need some help knowing where to start, a gentle push in the right direction and our support and backing. You can significantly decrease your stress level and get more done with better results by implementing ideas other than your own. Allow others the opportunity to fix problems.

Empowerment is the key.

I am also very impressed by what I have witnessed regarding trust and integrity among people in the Air Force (civilian and military alike). It's an impressive sight, watching people rise to the occasion time and time again - their accomplishments can leave you speechless at times.

I like to tell folks they start off with my total trust and confidence. They have already earned it as a right of wearing the uniform and being an Airman. In addition, I tell them I will work hard to meet or exceed their expectations, and in return I expect their dedication and best effort at producing results.

When trusting someone you are empowering them to rise above. Give it a try. I find most folks will respond in a way that will surprise you. When you reach moments where a bit of refinement is needed, seize the moment and discuss the situation. Give them another opportunity to excel.

By taking the time to mentor and grow the next generation of Airmen, we ensure they are prepared to take on the next set of challenges that await them.
We live and share experiences with a committed force whose job is readiness to the nation - you don't have anything to lose and everything to gain by increasing your pool of strong brothers and sisters in arms.

Additionally, the probability of successful change these days appears to be strangely dependent on successful personality management and motivation.

Ask yourself a tough question once in a while, what kind of Airman are you and are your actions consistent with what people think of you and need you to be? Are you the type of person who will work hard to find a legal way to accomplish the task? Do you have more to give? When was the last time you asked those around you for some feedback?

I'm not talking about your boss. Instead focus on your peers who depend on you and who you support. We can all stand for a little unvarnished feedback from time to time and take the time to carefully evaluate what they might say to you.

I find it's easier to commit to another person than it is to something else like a process or tasking. Having said that, commitment requires communication, and I find that face-to-face communication is the best investment of your time when you need to address an important issue.

You know you're on the right path when you're more concerned about being committed to others than yourself. Don't be afraid to give. It always comes back in ways you can't even imagine.

Trust, empowerment, and integrity remind me daily why I serve. Try those concepts when things appear to be going rough.

I know I am more capable with the help of others, and I don't have to be embarrassed to ask for help or have all the answers. It makes me proud to serve ... and even wear that blue uniform in the rain on Mondays without an umbrella.