Some advice for the new year Published Jan. 14, 2008 By Chief Master Sgt. Paul Moreau 17th Training Wing command chief master sergeant GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Over the years I've collected some homegrown leadership-axioms from various commanders that I've worked for. I thought you might like to read and think about a few of them. By the way, feel free to apply them. - If you don't know, ask. If you ask and still don't know, something's wrong. - Organizations can survive on either attitude or aptitude, but they'll only thrive on a combination thereof. - Spirited discussions are indicators that the unit is alive and well, and that your subordinates are enthusiastic and communicating. Never crush the spirit or the discussion. - You can't always win, but if you consistently lose, perhaps you're in the wrong line of work. - Explain your way before demanding that someone get out of it. - Never lose your military bearing. Never allow your subordinates to lose their bearing. - Failure at a task is either lack of understanding or a lack of ability. Fix the problem, not the indicator. - Leadership isn't popularity, and popularity isn't leadership. Never confuse the two when making decisions. - Leadership is best when done as a selfless act--but always act like yourself while doing it. - When you screw up: admit it, fix it, learn from it, and get on with it. - Micromanagement ensures consistency and kills initiative and creativity. - Never fail to say "thank you." - Ration your stress. - Believe the best in people--they tend to live up to expectations. - For every primary, there is ALWAYS a back-up. - Always keep a hand in the details and an eye on the big picture. - Establish rules early, ensure they are clear and live within them. - You're the boss: act like it. - A positive outlook is the single most powerful leadership tool!