A command chief's top 10 resolutions

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Blodgett
  • 436th Airlift Wing command chief
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. (AFNEWS) --  As we enter 2007, we are going to face a new year with a world and an Air Force that needs your talents, dedication and professionalism to accomplish our often difficult and diverse missions.

Usually at this time of the year, many people are talking about their New Year's resolutions and the goals they set for themselves for the coming year. Goals in life and in your career are extremely important, but they must be realistic and attainable if you are going to be able to meet them.

Like David Letterman, I want to offer my advice on the "Top 10 New Year's Resolutions" for all Airmen.

Be fit to fight
The evidence is in for fitness. Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. Being in the military makes this even more important. We must be prepared to enter the fray at a moment's notice. Dedicate yourselves to exercise a minimum of three times a week and then do it. You will feel better, perform at higher efficiency and reduce your health risks that come with age.

Study for that next promotion
We all talk about it, but many do not crack the books until weeks before their promotion test. Develop a study plan and then stick to it with dedication. Our Promotion Fitness Examinations demand a complete understanding of the material that only comes from a dedicated study regimen. Dedicate 30 minutes every day to study for your next stripe and begin at least six to eight months before your test date. Make studying a part of your routine.

Reduce your debt
Was money a big source of stress in your life last year? Get a handle on your finances. Save more money; spend less with credit. Enroll in a retirement savings account like the Thrift Savings Plan now. The military expects all Airmen to manage their finances in such a way as to not bring discredit to themselves or the service.

Help others and get involved
A popular, non-selfish New Year's resolution -- volunteerism -- can take many forms in the military. Whether you choose to spend time helping at the Airman's Attic, joining a booster club or local private organization, there are many volunteer organizations both on and off the installation that can really use your help.

Spend more time with family and friends
Recent polls show that more than 50 percent of Americans vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends this year. In the military, our time away from family and friends is often magnified by required deployments and temporary duties. Make the most of your time at home and with loved ones and never forget they are an integral part of your Air Force journey.

Learn something new
Have you ever vowed to do something you always wanted to do, but never got around to it? Perhaps it is learning a new language, taking a college class, getting your Community College of the Air Force Degree, reading a book from the Air Force chief of staff's reading list or taking that Lean class. Whether it's upgrade training or your Career Development Courses, you'll find education is one of the easiest, most motivating New Year's resolutions to keep. Challenge your mind in the coming year, and your horizons will expand.

Be a mentor
Take the time to take someone under your wing and teach them the ropes of being a good Airman. Be the role model you always wanted. Train someone to someday take your place and fulfill your duties and responsibilities.

Improve your attitude
Make your choice for the coming year to have a positive attitude and not a negative one. You have complete control over this. You can think of lots of reasons for a negative attitude -- "I'm not a morning person," "I don't like this place," "My supervisor is mean," etc. Get over it! I think that's a cop-out for choosing a negative attitude. You control how you feel and how you react and your attitude affects those all around you. Choose to be positive and be thankful for what you have!

Make a culture of responsible choices in all you do
Probably the most popular of all New Year's resolutions after losing weight is to quit drinking and smoking. I won't go into the obvious health risks associated with these activities -- we all should know their dangers. However, I will ask everyone to consider making responsible choices in everything you do this year. Consider the possible pitfalls of over-indulging in any situation. I've seen too many Air Force careers ruined by one night of binge drinking or any other risk-associated behaviors that are not thought out properly.

Enjoy life more
Given the hectic, stressful lifestyle of our Air Force, it is no wonder that enjoying life more has become a popular resolution in recent years. Take time to enjoy your successes and enjoy everything and everyone around you.

We are in the greatest air and space force in the world and we should all be proud of our contributions to peace and freedom all over the world!

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