Only the best will do for our Air Force Published May 30, 2007 By Master Sgt. Chari Petrie 301st Security Forces Squadron Fort Worth, Texas -- Have you ever read a quote that made you really stop and think? One that really got me was from Oprah Winfrey. She stated "Doing your best at this moment puts you in the best position for the next." In our world of constant deployments and unknown time lines, it is imperative we make the most of our training, keep ourselves fit and current in our job responsibilities. By doing so, we give ourselves the confidence and preparedness we need for whatever comes 'next'. Do you apply the same level of preparedness to every day life and while in uniform? How do you conduct yourself when you are at work? Do you go above and beyond for just a couple of weeks before a possible raise or promotion or do you work hard every day? Do your best not only for yourself, but for those that depend on you - your family, friends and your unit. Cutting corners and putting only halfhearted efforts into the work you do will eventually catch up with you. It may not be visible immediately, but will shine the brightest when you don't want it to. Then you have a constant shadow or "black mark" against you that you will work a lifetime to erase. Conversely, always doing your best is a compliment waiting to happen. People notice those who consistently put out their best efforts. Take Volvo for example. They are known as strong, safe and dependable - consistently delivering a quality product. When someone hears the name Volvo, they subconsciously know what it stands for. It is known but unspoken. When someone hears your name, do they subconsciously think of quality workmanship or are they wary of the end result? Make quality your signature on everything you do. Be the name that speaks for itself and be ready for the "next moment".