Whenever we hear about some historical battle, it's always the fighting force that gets all the credit for the victory. Despite this, one of the many lessons that comes through history time and time again is that an army runs on its stomach. More specifically, battles are won by the military with the best logistics- the ability to supply its people with the weapons, machines, food, water, transportation and medical care that it needs. Take these away, and an army is no better off than a car without gas or tires.

This lesson holds true for far more than simply military matters. In fact, it can be applied to a myriad of situations. For example, the first attempt at a Central American waterway was attempted by the French, who had the appropriate technology to move the dirt and mountains. However, they were defeated by unrest and disease among the workers. When the Panama Canal was successfully completed by the U.S., a lot of the credit went to not only to the workers, but also the medical staff who figured out how to deal with the malaria, dysentery and other ailments that slowed work.

Another example is a professional sports team. They spend months perfecting their on-field plays. What you don't see are all background support crews that make those plays possible- sports marketers, financial supporters, equipment managers, trainers, physicians, nutritionists, travel organizers... the list goes on and on. Without these unsung heroes taking care of business off field, it doesn't matter how much the players practice their plays, their execution wouldn't have a chance without the support. Take away this support and the team fails on the field.

In your own life, if you're not succeeding in the areas you would like, is it because you're focusing on your direct performance while ignoring your need to develop your support? It can make all the difference.

Have a great week!

Don

Dr. Don Kopf - a licensed psychologist working with individuals and organizations to help them grow, learn and change for the better.

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