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Looking ahead, not back

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  • By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
  • 19th Airlift Wing command chief
As I tried to utilize some of the exercise equipment at the fitness center, a couple of thoughts came to mind. First, I noticed I was surrounded by many unfamiliar faces in the fitness center. I guess they figured out that they had packed on a little too much fat reserve for the winter hibernation and were trying to make an adjustment.

Secondly, many people spend this time of the year looking back at what they accomplished last year. Some even say that because they broke their commitments from the prior year they won't set any goals for this year. My response to you is that your past doesn't have to be an indicator of what your future can be. So this week, I want you to look ahead to doing things, within your control, that will help you improve personally.

The first thing is to look inward, and not focus on what others are doing. Sometimes we accuse others of things they are not doing while excusing ourselves of the same thing.

Take the time to do an honest self assessment to see if you are putting your best foot forward each day.

Once you have done that, then you must simply hold yourself accountable to meeting your goals. I don't like to run a great deal, yet I understand the positive attributes of running. I also detest running in cold weather, so those are two reasons that I could avoid activities associated with running this winter. To hold myself accountable, I purchased a treadmill and have been putting it to good use. Accountability may not feel good, but it produces great results.

My challenge to each of you is to look ahead to be better in 2010. Don't blame others, don't make excuses and hold yourself accountable. Your goals are your goals and let this be the year that you start and finish strong.

Combat Airlift!