1 00:00:00,063 --> 00:00:02,563 (loud whoosh) 2 00:00:06,730 --> 00:00:09,850 - Warrior medics, if we remember 2020 for anything, 3 00:00:09,850 --> 00:00:12,650 it will probably be as a year of challenges- 4 00:00:12,650 --> 00:00:15,330 long days, ever-changing requirements, 5 00:00:15,330 --> 00:00:18,090 maintaining a heightened level of readiness and commitment, 6 00:00:18,090 --> 00:00:21,930 apprehension, and concern for family and loved ones. 7 00:00:21,930 --> 00:00:24,470 As warriors, we place the mission first, 8 00:00:24,470 --> 00:00:28,370 never quit, and never leave fallen comrades behind. 9 00:00:28,370 --> 00:00:29,870 The only way we can sustain 10 00:00:29,870 --> 00:00:32,290 these demanding responsibilities over time 11 00:00:32,290 --> 00:00:34,610 is to make sure we're also taking opportunities 12 00:00:34,610 --> 00:00:37,350 to decompress like a warrior. 13 00:00:37,350 --> 00:00:40,790 Physical, mental, and emotional health is all connected. 14 00:00:40,790 --> 00:00:42,720 Ignoring your own needs for a short while 15 00:00:42,720 --> 00:00:44,650 to accomplish the mission is fine, 16 00:00:44,650 --> 00:00:47,270 but eventually those bills come due. 17 00:00:47,270 --> 00:00:49,300 Some of the best and brightest soldiers and civilians 18 00:00:49,300 --> 00:00:51,520 in the army belong to our command, 19 00:00:51,520 --> 00:00:53,220 but being smart doesn't always mean 20 00:00:53,220 --> 00:00:55,190 we make the best decisions. 21 00:00:55,190 --> 00:00:57,030 At the end of an incredibly stressful day, 22 00:00:57,030 --> 00:00:59,960 many of us want to go on autopilot to unwind. 23 00:00:59,960 --> 00:01:02,260 All too often, that means a quick and easy solution, 24 00:01:02,260 --> 00:01:04,640 like fast food, turning on the TV, 25 00:01:04,640 --> 00:01:06,690 maybe grabbing a drink or two. 26 00:01:06,690 --> 00:01:08,910 Once in a while, these choices are fine, 27 00:01:08,910 --> 00:01:11,190 but if they become a part of your routine, 28 00:01:11,190 --> 00:01:14,610 it isn't long before they become a part of your character. 29 00:01:14,610 --> 00:01:17,080 Joining the army is never an easy decision. 30 00:01:17,080 --> 00:01:18,730 It's a deliberate choice. 31 00:01:18,730 --> 00:01:21,450 That same judgment is how we make sure we're taking care 32 00:01:21,450 --> 00:01:24,350 of our individual health and welfare. 33 00:01:24,350 --> 00:01:26,720 Consciously make life-affirming activities a part 34 00:01:26,720 --> 00:01:27,900 of your every day. 35 00:01:27,900 --> 00:01:29,010 Get outdoors. 36 00:01:29,010 --> 00:01:30,880 Exercise. Meditate. 37 00:01:30,880 --> 00:01:32,100 Take a day off. 38 00:01:32,100 --> 00:01:34,470 Take time to catch up with family and friends 39 00:01:34,470 --> 00:01:35,440 and start your day 40 00:01:35,440 --> 00:01:37,720 with something that inspires and motivates you, 41 00:01:37,720 --> 00:01:41,550 something that reminds you of why you're doing what you do. 42 00:01:41,550 --> 00:01:44,130 Decompressing like a warrior means being mindful 43 00:01:44,130 --> 00:01:48,060 that we don't leave anyone behind, including ourselves. 44 00:01:48,060 --> 00:01:49,753 Mission first. Never quit.