JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. -- "The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack in will."
- Vince Lombardi

No one ever said life was easy or fair, but most would say hard work and a plan will get you there. Today, everyone is distracted with the upcoming elections, budgets and who will be the next judge on American Idol. Of these things, not one of them can we change on our own. With this in mind, let's focus on the things we can change in our daily lives, i.e. our fitness, military and civilian education and our long range goals.

Fitness in the Air Force has become almost like a bad word in some circles. Some members look at it as a way to weed people out when there isn't some other issue. Some look at it as a new way of life to ensure they collect their retirement check. Others look at it as 'what's the big deal' because they are fitness buffs normally. Fitness is about strength; of the mind and the body. As one strengthens, so does the other and the possibilities are endless with the exception of genetics. No one says you have to score an excellent on your fitness test, just pass and stay current. Have a plan and work it.

When it comes to furthering education, a lack of knowledge should not be the answer given when asked a question. There are so many options available to make it easier to get an education in today's military and society in general. With the educational benefits available, the online courses and even accelerated courses provided by some schools, many degrees can be granted simply by visiting the education office and applying technical school and professional military education credits toward a Community College of the Air Force degree.

For those who already have a civilian degree, getting your CCAF may be as simple as having your transcripts audited by Air University and taking one or two courses or going through Dantes. Don't let a quick trip to the education office be the reason you don't get promoted, get an assignment or receive an award or other recognition because your package wasn't strong enough. Have a plan and work it.

So what do you want to be when you grow up, retire, graduate or make some other life transition? Are you ready, do you know, have you thought past tomorrow? Do you want to make it to the highest enlisted rank, the highest officer rank, be the best spouse, parent or just be the best at your job where you are today? What sacrifices will you make to achieve these goals and do you have the strength of will to see them through? Have a plan and work it!