Focus on the day, not daily pressures

  • Published
  • By Glenn Garcia
  • 90th Medical Operations Squadron
F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. --  No doubt we have all been feeling the increased pressure from work and family as we have to do more with less in today's Air Force. This extends to less time for family and our personal finances. Many families have been struggling to make ends meet for some time, and it now seems that they have reached the end of their rope. The consequences are dire, not only for families who may be experiencing conflict but for members being separated from the Air Force because of the consequences.

With the impact global events are having on our military families, it is becoming more critical that we focus on today and taking care of those around us. Under stress and extreme pressure, many people become isolated or reserved in their behavior as they struggle to meet every tasking on their busy schedules. When this occurs, however, we tend to lose focus on our overall sense of well being and on the need to take care of each other within our own social networks.

Many people struggle daily as they watch the events unfolding in the world and wonder if they can truly make a difference other than casting a vote and hoping national leaders have the strength to make the difficult decisions facing them. I assure you that you can make a difference, and the best way to make that difference is to focus on the people you interact with every day. Pay attention to signs of stress and overload. If someone is exhibiting signs or they appear to be on the edge, take the time to let them know that you appreciate them and the efforts they are making. By focusing on making today the best day that it can be and by taking care of the people that we love and work with, we can all end our day feeling like we made a difference in the ever-challenging world that we live in.

Oprah recently had a show where members of the audience were each given $1,000; however, the stipulation was that they could not spend it on themselves or their family. After some initial anguish, audience members selflessly began donating the funds to various families and organizations. The feelings of empowerment and personal satisfaction were astounding.

Members relayed stories of how their lives were changed simply by doing for others instead of doing for yourself. This can be important during this time of year if we consider something meaningful that we can do for someone we work with or even a stranger on the street in need.

If you give instead of take, you will find that your life will be fulfilled and your bank account will also be spared the agony of trying to make yourself feel better by purchasing the latest flat-panel television or newest game system on the market, which is what all the advertisers tell us we need to do to feel good about ourselves.

Giving provides meaning to life.

A simple recognition or expression of appreciation could save a life as well as add joy to a person you acknowledge. You may not be able to solve world conflict, but you may solve someone else's personal conflict that makes their day more meaningful and, at the end of the day, will give you a sincere sense of purpose and accomplishment.