Admiral Paul F. Zukunft, 25th Commandant of the U. S. Coast Guard

Standards matter.

Every passageway I walk down, whether on a ship or in an office, I am reminded of a phrase I once heard: the standards you walk past are the standards you accept. As a Coast Guardsman, Sailor, or Marine, embracing your organization’s standards and values advances a culture befitting the Nation’s trust.

How?

You are faced with decisions countless times a day. In making these decisions, whether big or small, you must ask yourself “Are my actions consistent with my values and the values of my organization?” If your response is no – ask why?

Refuse to accept, “We’ve always done it that way,” as an answer and challenge the status quo. Your decisions and behavior create the culture in which those you lead will live and work. You are the critical link; take the high ground.

As a leader you must embrace your responsibility in shaping culture. Own your organization’s standards. Communicate your expectations and empower people to succeed.