EXPECTATIONS VS. EXPERIENCE

For those newly appointed, watch out.

A few months into the Academy, you might get bit by the cynicism bug.

This happens when your expectations don’t meet your experience. Let’s use an example.

Ex: It’s supposedly the world’s greatest leadership institution, yet your Commander is the world’s worst leader. What now?!

That could happen. But here’s the truth:

Facts: You probably learn more from bad leaders than from good ones. Because you see what NOT to do.

Facts: No better place to take what you’ve learned and put it into practice.

Facts: There are exceptions everywhere, but on average, your peers at the Academy are top notch.

So come in expecting that you will notice some inconsistencies. It’s going to happen, and it will frustrate you.

Accept reality, and make change where you can. You’re in an amazing place to do so.