Late football coach's statements still relevent today

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Katherine Munn
  • U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West
TRAVIS AFB, Calif. --  "You were good. Good enough to get here. And now it's time to get better."

Ever hear a message to that effect after being selected for promotion? I think we all have and it's valuable guidance.

Those words were spoken by Vince Lombardi. He was regarded as one of the greatest motivational coaches ever, leading the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships, including wins in the first two Super Bowls. He died in 1970 but his legacy of leadership continues. I view leadership as motivational coaching and was intrigued that many of Lombardi's quotes related directly to the Air Force core value "excellence in all we do."

"The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor," Lombardi said.

We try to keep work from affecting our personal lives and being a dedicated Airman 24/7 can make that challenging. Unfinished business in the workplace translates into stress at home. When you complete a tasking thoroughly and with the highest degree of excellence, you save yourself a lot of time and stress in the long run. Get it done right the first time. Not only is it your duty to do so, it will improve the quality of your life.

"Perfection is unattainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence," he said. Lombardi's quote makes it sound like fun to chase perfection, encountering tons of excellence along the route. Of course, there are certain tasks in our Air Force that do not allow for even the slightest margin of error. Perfection is required and must be attained. When Airmen have worked their hardest and are maxed out, offer reward. It's your job to carefully recognize that fine line, when demanding more could result in diminishing returns. Remember to exercise discernment.

"If you'll not settle for anything less than your best, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish in your lives," Lombardi said.

You might have this covered and you're at top speed. Sometimes, though, I believe we need others to propel us into action by expecting more than we thought we were capable of. Who believes in you? Surround yourself with positive mentors and influences, continually raising the bar for yourself. There truly is no limit to excellence.

Congratulations to those recently selected for promotion to master sergeant. Reflect on your hard work and sacrifice. Thank your friends, family and others that helped pave the road to your promotion and savor the celebration. But most of all, keep in mind that now it's time to get better.