Staying connected Published Oct. 29, 2007 By Maj. Scott Angerman 90th Communication Squadron commander F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- In the computer systems business, connections are important. If a system isn't plugged in or not hooked up to the network, it doesn't work well -- or at all -- in a stand-alone mode. People are like that too: We work best when we're connected to each other and the world around us. The late Air Force Col. John Boyd, one of my favorite military strategic thinkers, theorized, "Living systems are open systems; closed systems are non-living systems. Point: If we don't communicate with the outside world -- to gain information for knowledge and understanding as well as matter and energy for sustenance -- we die out to become a non-discerning and uninteresting part of that world. Interaction permits vitality and growth, while isolation leads to decay and disintegration." Everyone needs to stay plugged in and interact with the world around us in order to survive and thrive --applicable not just to military strategy but to daily life. People need personal and social interaction to sustain them, keep them in sync with reality and keep them sharp. Staying connected is good advice both professionally and personally. In the workplace, stay connected with co-workers and build relationships. It will keep you "in touch" and promote trust and cohesion in your work areas. Supervisors, there is simply no substitute for getting around and personally talking to your folks -- for those of us computer-inclined types, pry your fingers from the keyboard. Stay plugged in with your troops so that you know what's going on with them. How are they are feeling? What's new in their life? What are current hopes and goals? How are they spending their free time? Time spent in dialogue will not only bring yourself up to speed on your people, it will demonstrate that you care about them. Be a good wingman: Are there any "loners" in your unit who are typically left out, either socially or through geographic separation? Make the effort to include them and plug them into interaction and activity. Build social networks between your peers -- it's great to share your experiences and challenges. And, of course, ensure you reach out to families, especially those whose military member has deployed. Personally, make the effort to be a part of the world around you -- avoid isolation, participate, reach out and make the most of opportunities to interact with others. Get together with friends to socialize and blow off some steam. If you are married, arrange for regular quality time for your spouse or children. We have great spiritual and recreational outlets at Warren and in our neighboring community; take advantage of them. The communication squadron performs daily checks to make sure "systems are green" and connected; make sure you perform your own system checks and keep yourself and your people "in the green."