Do the right thing at the right time for the right reason for the right people

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Leticia Johnson
  • 62nd Medical Squadron
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  I was recently asked by a new member in my unit what "tips" I could give him to be successful in the Air Force. After taking a few moments to reflect, my response was, "Do the right thing at the right time for the right reason for the right people."

Do the right thing. Always. No matter how much it hurts or you think it is going to hurt someone else. Take responsibility for your actions and hold others to that same standard. Keeping someone on track and holding someone accountable is the right thing to do no matter what.

The right time. Yes, sometimes it is all about timing. Good time management is essential to be successful. This isn't an easy habit to have, you have to work at it. Set a suspense, make a list, prioritize your time, have goals for yourself and others and stick to it. Everyone's time is valuable, especially your own, so don't forget to include some personal time on that list for yourself.

The right reason. Understand what you are getting yourself into. Whether it is volunteering outside of work or taking on a project in your unit, be a part of it because it has value to you. Doing it for a bullet on your enlisted performance report or quarterly package should not be the only reason you volunteer or do something outside of your regular duty requirements. The more meaning it has to you, the more involved you can be and really make a difference.

The right people. It's all about people. Take care of your people and they will take care of you. If you are assisting your coworkers or subordinates in being successful, they will reciprocate the assistance when needed. People are our most valuable resource, we have to take care of and assist them in any we can when appropriate.

The next time you are faced with a challenge, ask yourself is this, "The right thing, is this the right time, is it the right reason and is it for the right people?"