How do you define success?

  • Published
  • By Col. (Dr.) Nick Lezama
  • 60th Aerospace Medicine Squadron commander
Success can mean different things to different people. We often think of success in terms of achievements, such as having a well-paying job, winning a sporting event, or meeting that special person.

In the military, we often think we are successful when we have accomplished a specific mission objective. Success in our military profession is vital and often the stakes are high, so it's important to strive for success and know how and when we achieve it.

When I was a resident in aerospace medicine, my classmates and I were exposed to some of the most highly accomplished Air Force Medical Service leaders. I remember the Air Force Surgeon General, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) George Peach Taylor's response to my question, "How do I avoid getting fired when I'm a squadron commander?"

Perhaps my vision of a successful squadron commander was a little narrow.

After a few snickers and chuckles from my classmates, General Taylor simply stated to take care of your people, follow the lead of your commander and stay out of trouble.

The best leaders are truly concerned about their people. They communicate their vision and priorities to those under their command. They follow their boss's directions and influence those in their command to do the same.

General Taylor helped me understand the essence of good leadership and how it is so important to follow your commander's lead. So now I'm "tracking" (yes, I was prior Army).

Take care of your people. Follow your commander. Stay out of trouble. I can do this.
My next memorable mentorship pearl was bestowed on me compliments of another very wise man, Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Bruce Green.

When asked how he set expectations for his personnel, he replied, "Know your job, do your job, and do it well."

Well, there's a lot of meaning and wisdom in those very few words.

As leaders, we must clearly define what's expected, hold personnel accountable, and recognize and reward excellence. As many of you know, this is not as easy as it may sound, but if carried out, will result in personal and professional success.

Those words of wisdom have been invaluable and I often share this simple advice with my squadron.

The last bit of advice I'll share was from Col. (Dr.) Courtney Scott.

Colonel Scott was our commander at the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine and he would often share his leadership pearls with us. The one that has made the most lasting impression was on the importance of defining success.

He urged us to reflect on what success meant to us, to define our parameters for success in our personal and professional lives, and to help those around us to be successful. He told us to set high expectations for our units, and more often than not, those expectations will be met.

These principles are tried, true and have helped guide and influence some of our greatest leaders.

I guarantee that if you incorporate some of this wisdom into your personal lives, you will enjoy great satisfaction, success and you'll keep your boss happy.