Distractions: A message from Fleet Master Chief John Minyard

Hello again shipmates,

There are so many important things happening in our Navy right now, I spent more than a little time deciding what subject to address this month. Should I talk about force restructuring, continuing resolution, the implementation of “Don’t Ask-Don’t Tell” repeal or any other of a dozen challenges we currently face?

In the end, I decided to talk about distractions. Obviously, the topics I mentioned are of great importance and will impact all of our lives in one way or another, but these matters will be decided by our military and civilian leaders, just as they have been in the past, and will be in the future. That being the case, are we really accomplishing anything by feeding the rumor mill and guessing about what might happen and when, or are we allowing ourselves to be distracted by speculation and wasting valuable time that would be better spent making sure we are trained, focused and prepared to fight, regardless of the circumstances?

I believe speculation on any of the topics I mentioned at the beginning takes away from our ability to do this effectively. So here is my challenge to you - rise above the distractions and focus on the things you can control like job performance, rating knowledge, qualifications and personal conduct.

Concentrate on becoming a model Sailor who is ready and able to contribute to the mission at hand, and who enjoys the full support of family and friends. Their understanding and strength will help keep us focused through difficult times.

It is human nature to ponder what the future holds and to worry about how changes will affect us, but there is a fine line between wondering and spending so much time worrying that it becomes an impediment to our every day responsibilities. Stay the course shipmates, and keep in mind that distractions come in many different forms and from multiple directions, and they aren’t always easy to recognize.

Take for example the recent change to Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. On the surface it doesn’t seem like a distraction, but many Sailors were concerned when they found out they wouldn’t receive their orders until two months before their rotation date. PCSing is never easy - between filling out transfer paperwork, setting up household goods shipments, completing necessary screenings and reenlisting, you’ve got a lot to get done.

It’s even more challenging if you have a spouse who works, children enrolled in school and you’re a homeowner who needs to sell or rent the place out. It’s a lot to accomplish in so little time.

When you look at it that way, it’s easy to see how that situation could result in a great deal of worry and easily become a distraction. The bad news is that you can’t control when you’ll get your orders, but the good news is you do know they are coming and can help minimize the disruption by focusing on the things you can control. Make sure your family members know and understand the situation. Begin making preparations now by talking to schools and realtors, take a walk through your house and start thinking about what you’ll be shipping or storing. Bottom line is any actions you take now are less likely to become distractions in the future.

Now I know this is just one example of the many challenges we face, but you can apply the same principles to almost any situation. Just keep focused on the important things and rise above the distractions, or they will surely control you.

Thanks for your time shipmates, and thanks for all you do! - Fleet Minyard