I was inspired to share my thoughts after reading "The Infinite Game" by Simon Sinek. In hopes that others would be encouraged to adopt what is called an "infinite mindset."
Having an infinite mindset means you do not see things from a two-dimensional perspective, such as winning, losing, fair, and unfair. Instead, they see challenges as opportunities to build more substantial, innovative, inspiring organizations through their people.
One of Sinek's essential practices to adopt an infinite mindset is to advance a "just cause." Sinek defines a just cause as a "specific vision of a future state that does not yet exist. A future state so appealing that people are willing to make sacrifices to help advance toward that vision." He goes into great detail on what is and is not a just cause. One thing that stood out was when he said: "being the best is not a just cause." I could relate to that because I understand that striving to be the best is a limited concept when reality continues.
He and I both adopted the saying, "don't be the best - be better." Meaning it's essential to keep growing and improving in whatever you do, not merely be the best.
An excellent example is the 2016 Golden State Warriors achieving the best win record in NBA history of 73-10 but didn't win a championship. The Warriors have the best record of all time, but they didn't win it all. That honor goes to the Chicago Bulls, the former record holder with 72-11.
This comes to now - prior to my deployment, I vowed to get in the best shape of my life. However, after understanding my own personal just cause, my new goal is to just always for me to strive for better health. This means going beyond just being physically in shape. For me to have a positive mindset, I must not consume harmful content (music, videos, media, etc.).
I should read books to strengthen my mind and increase my knowledge to help others, maintain healthier food selection habits to take home after my deployment, increase my spiritual growth through prayer and to develop meaningful relationships, and look out for my future by educating myself on finances.
My question to everyone is, do you want to be the "best" or do you want to be a better person? Are you pushing your people to be the best by just winning awards, or are you encouraging them to be better humans and Wingmen? Email me at piankhy.richberg@asab.afcent.af.mil, and let's discuss how we all become better through these trying times.