People often ask me how I became such a great firefighter. How did I get my training? What was it like when I was a rookie? How did I pass the test?
But there is only one answer to these questions. I didn’t study. I didn’t prepare. I didn’t go through some elaborate process to become a fireman.
I just showed up. And I did the best I could.
When I arrived at the scene, I tried to put myself in the shoes of the other firefighters. I imagined what it would be like to be them. I saw what was happening. I listened. I observed.
Then I acted.
In order to be a good firefighter, you have to understand the problem and act quickly. You have to listen to everyone else. You have to communicate clearly. You have to work together with others.
Being a firefighter is simple. Being a great firefighter is complex. But being a good firefighter is easy.
I’m not saying this is the only way to become a good firefighter. There are many ways to become a great firefighter. But if you really want to be a great firefighter, you should show up every day and do your very best.
If you try your best, you’ll succeed. If you don’t try your best, you won’t succeed.
