Your "Arc of Influence"
I recently attended an Airman Leadership School graduation and was once again inspired by the message the guest speaker, a seasoned Chief Master Sergeant, shared with the audience. His message was a simple one but it really struck a chord with me as his whole premise was based on how small things matter. He eluded that these graduates were now posturing to step forth into supervisory roles and how their actions, will be observed, measured and duplicated by their subordinates. He spoke of their “arc of influence”.
The Chief used an everyday analogy of a door and hinge. The door, representing the greater populace (in this case our Airmen subordinates) and the hinge, representing the small yet vital actions of the NCO or SNCO Leader. The small, yet critical movement of a simple hinge is what controls all the weight and movement of the door. Its arc is small, yet its effects magnificent. Just think, one small little hinge controlling the movement of something 1000 times its size!
Our NCOs and SNCOs are those hinges. They are the small yet essential element that motivates and vectors the mass towards success. Their involvement, mentorship, and guidance is what postures our culture and forges us into the greatest air, space and cyberspace force the world has ever known. Without their stimulus, nothing is possible—success is unattainable. It is our duty to ensure the hinge’s stay strong, to ensure that their integrity is maintained, and ensure they are oiled (physically, mentally, and spiritually) to guarantee they work as required.
The magnitude of our “arc of influence” can never be fully comprehended. It is honed through one interaction at a time—one small movement, which in turn causes a larger effect. It is amazing to witness the positive effects of a true leader, as their impact or arc…is immense.
I challenge readers of this article to pause for a moment and reflect on the leaders who have interacted with them along the way. Think of these exchanges, which occurred, and the effects that resulted—mentally replicate those “arcs of influence” and in turn—put those into practice with today’s generation. Your memories are a direct reflection of the influences your leaders instilled on you—their “arc of influence”.
As today’s leaders, it is paramount that you foster this model of professionalism. Create your own “arc of influence” now; as tomorrow’s leaders are already here--waiting in the wings, watching your every move—ready to take your place. You are indeed the linchpin or “hinge” between success and failure. Your actions, no matter how small they may seem, are being evaluated and emulated—proving the fact that, the truly small things that make the biggest difference...make a difference today!
V/r
SMSgt Matthew Becker
President, AFSA Chapter 984
Treasurer, AFSA Division 89
Member, AFSA International (ADHOC) Committee
“Lead Me—Follow-Me—or Get Out of My Way!”