The 5 C’s of positive behaviors Published July 21, 2010 By Col. Michael Hornitschek 375th Air Mobility Wing Commander SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- CARE. COMMIT. CONNECT. COMMUNICATE. CELEBRATE. These are the five focus areas of positive behaviors that Air Mobility Command considers the "vital threads through the fabric of our community," and are part of the Comprehensive Airman Fitness program, known as CAF. By embracing these attributes, we help our Airmen and their families develop a sense of belonging in the community, which in turn leads to well being, life balance and resiliency for all, which is the goal of CAF. It's important for leadership at all levels to embrace these behaviors and instill these elements in their members to create robust work and home environments that will create strong, high performing and successful teams. Let me elaborate on each of these areas. CARE. By being good Wingmen, we willfully exhibit integrity, empathy and respect in what we choose to do and say. We have each other's back, you might say, to ensure the right choices are made for success. Respect up and down the chain of command is necessary for mission success, and especially important in our marriages, family relationships and professional relationships with each other. This builds momentum and initiative to act for the good of the organization as well as each other. COMMIT. In choosing to help others become their very best, lasting bonds are created. We appreciate another's point of view. People who seek to do their part help unite everyone in a common mission, purpose or vision. By working collaboratively, we build stronger communities that promote self-sufficiency and enhance mission readiness, retention and adaptation to the Air Force way of life. The nation asks a lot of our servicemembers. Frequent moves, deployments, long hours, separation from families--all can cause stress to ourselves, our families and friends, and our co-workers. But we press on united in our commitment to serve our nation and each other. When I see the determination of our fellow servicemembers whether at home or abroad on the frontlines of battle in Afghanistan, Iraq, and around the world, I re-commit to working just as hard back home, and I know you do the same. CONNECT. Connecting with others usually doesn't just happen but requires intentional effort to be effective. There is some skill needed to develop a relationship where all parties feel valued, and often repeat effort at multiple forums and venues is required before becoming lasting. Eventually, trust forms and the team comes together, united for a purpose. COMMUNICATE. The way we express ourselves, either verbal or written, can have a profound effect on how the message is received and understood. Learning positive and proactive communication skills increase the chance of effectively connecting with each other. Choosing the right method of communication, good word choice, and being an attentive listener increase the likelihood that the intended message will achieve its desired objective. This is a key element in CAF, and one that I believe we must constantly evaluate to see how we are doing. CELEBRATE. Celebrating positive results and accomplishments show appreciation for those around us. A good leader communicates expectations and provides constructive feedback thus providing an environment for growth and development. Recognition for and celebration of a team's achievements enforces positive behaviors and encourages commitment to the organization, mission and each other. None of the "Five C's" stand alone, but together intertwine to form a foundation of behaviors necessary to build a strong community of Airmen with successful lives and relationships. This success doesn't come automatically or easily. It is gained through experience and opportunities, and with the help of others who share their sage advice and lessons learned with us. I urge us all to commit to understanding and applying the tenants of CAF so we can continue to build resilient Airmen!