Ever notice events take place in five-year increments? We may not think about it, but most teenagers cannot wait to turn 16 so they can drive and enjoy the social scene, only to start looking toward turning 21 five years later so they can enjoy all the pleasures of adulthood. The next step is the infamous age of 25, when most young adults look forward to insurance rates being lowered, as well as discovering what they really want to do in life. Following 25 we tend to look at life in five year stages – 30, 35, 40, etc. – which are major milestones in our lives. Even though there are only four years difference between 21 and 25, the question is still the same: “What are you going to accomplish in the next five years?“
This is what I ask Airmen when they are processing into the squadron. Most are shocked because they expect the “Chief“ to lay down ground rules and explain the ins and outs of the squadron. Why be interested in the next five years? Plain and simple: “Leadership.“
The Air Force is focused on building leaders and our job is to create or further develop Airmen to become these leaders. It does not matter whether the person is an Airman basic, noncommissioned officer or young officer, developing leaders begins the moment they in-process the squadron. Why? Because coming to a new base means a fresh start and if the focus is on developing leaders, the best time to make individuals aware of this is during in-processing. That is why it is important to ask “What do you have planned for the next five years?“
One of our main goals in the civil engineer squadron is to get Airmen promoted and prepared to fill leadership positions. We accomplish this by mentoring and encouraging our Airmen to continue their educations and learning processes so we can build a solid foundation prior to promoting these new leaders into leadership positions.
This is why it is important to know what is taking place in our Airmen's lives for the next five years. Think about it: Most Airmen come into the Air Force by age 20 and are still trying to figure out what they want to do in life. Yes, they have a job, but in reality they want to accomplish more.
So we should take the time to capture Airmen's attention and help them realize that within five years they can complete a Community College of the Air Force degree or receive a bachelor's degree in their career fields. For those with some college education, they can continue toward completing their degrees and possibly become officers. With the right study techniques and focus, Airmen can also get promoted twice within a five-year period. So now you can see why the next five years are important.
From past experience, I discovered one way to build leadership is through involvement and education. Getting involved and focusing Airmen on advancing their education is a major step toward improving their professional and personal lives that improves leadership for the Air Force's future. As quoted by Jim Rohn, author, business coach and motivational speaker, “As a leader you should always start with where people are before you try to take them to where you want them to go.“ By asking our Airmen what they are going to accomplish in the next five years, start to develop new leaders and ensure they are on the right path. Whether it is the supervisor or individual, the most important thing to remember is to plan for the next five years and work to accomplish the goals you set.
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