Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. -- As we step into the fall season and enjoy cooler temperatures, it is an important time to engage on a more meaningful level with each of your Airmen. According to Dr. Kevin Leman and Bill Pentak, knowing the condition of your flock is essential and includes,
- Following the status of your people, as well as the status of the work
- Getting to know your flock, one sheep at a time
- Engaging your people on a regular basis
- Keeping your eyes and ears open, questioning and following through.
-- (The Way of the Shepherd, 2004, p28)
These components are pivotal when functioning as a good Wingman and resilient leader as they encompass compassion and proactivity, while encouraging resilience and strength in others. Engaging our Airmen regularly and building strong reciprocal relationships, supports awareness and openness when times get tough. Every Airmen’s need will look different and unique, and we must be prepared to embrace and support each level. Build a platform where recognition of strengths is the norm and lifting each other up is common place. Let’s all be the leader we would respect and want to emulate!