Can-do attitude necessary for success Published March 8, 2013 By Col. (Dr.) Kevin Connolly 60th Medical Group commander TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- While sitting at my desk, trying to decide what to share with the Travis community, I glanced to my right and noticed the photo of my father. Immediately, I knew what to write about. A can-do attitude. Such an attitude is, in my opinion, the single most important factor for achieving success in life. To this day, I remember my dad's words of encouragement: "Kevin, you can do anything in life, as long as you're willing to work for it." These words and the can-do attitude they embody, have become a continual source of encouragement and success in my life. An example to illustrate this occurred when I was a junior in high school wrestling. I was expected to finish at the top in my county tournament. However, during the second round, I was unexpectedly upset by an unknown, unranked wrestler. After the final whistle, I stood up, walked to the center of the mat, shook my opponent's hand and watched, in complete disbelief, as the referee raised his hand in victory. At that moment, I experienced the feeling of complete and utter defeat. I had let myself, my coach, my team and my family down. When I reached the stands, head hanging low, my dad embraced me and with complete fatherly confidence said, "Don't worry son. You'll be back next year." His can-do attitude turned my disappointment into motivation to succeed, which I did the following wrestling season. My hope is that these words will serve as a reminder to all. Any reasonable goal is truly attainable with a can-do attitude and lots of hard work.