New year calls for motivation to accomplish our mission Published Jan. 12, 2007 By Chief Master Sgt. Russell Kuck 62nd Airlift Wing command chief master sergeant MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Looking back, I see all the accomplishments we've made in the past year. From months of preparing for an Operational Readiness Inspection to surviving heavy winds and rainstorms, our Airmen are still accomplishing the mission. A new year can mean new stresses, but we have to remain motivated. A lot of times, we find ourselves "looking" for motivation based on what needs to be done instead of motivating ourselves to make a process or product better than ever. We have to find within ourselves the motivation to accomplish our mission with superior leadership, initiative and integrity. It's times like this when we need to find that voice inside of us that tells us we have to keep going. As Airmen, we're held to high expectations. How many companies ask their employees to leave their families for an extended amount of time to work in combat zones? In our service, times will inevitably get hard, but it's important to focus on the end product. We respond to the call to duty -- we are volunteers serving a greater good. So what can you do to stay motivated or to keep your Airmen motivated? You have to find a way to channel your energy in a positive way. Instead of spending endless time being upset over a last-minute task, use your energy to find a way to accomplish it. Secondly, it's important to recognize hard work when you see it. Do this while your Airmen are accomplishing any given task, and you'll see how much they're willing to work for you. Finally, don't overdo it. As Airmen, we fight the Global War on Terror 24/7, both at home and abroad -- in the air and on the ground. As human beings, we can't physically do this on a daily basis and survive. If you start to get overwhelmed, take a moment to relax and reflect. Remember, safety should always remain a top priority. Hooah!