"Seven Habits" course helps families succeed

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Steven Goetsch
  • Air Combat Command Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (ACCNS) --  Air Combat Command knows providing excellent family readiness support is critical to mission success, especially during these times of increased operations tempo. To provide this support, ACC has employed a course specifically adapted to the military called "Seven Habits of Highly Effective Air Force Families." 

Having a strong family supporting the member is critical to Air Force readiness. "This particular tool is specifically focused on the family unit," said Mr. Jean Michel, ACC Airman and Family Readiness Branch Chief.. "That is one of the cornerstones of a strong, ready force." 

In August, staff members from A&FRC's across the command were certified in the "7 Habits" course, so they could take this valuable tool back to their home stations and utilize it in a variety of ways. Each A&FRC will tailor the course length and schedule to best suit the demand of their respective bases. 

"A&FRC Community Readiness Consultants (CRC), will offer this valuable resource to Airmen and their families during visits to their assigned units and through collaboration with unit key spouses and leadership, " said Susie Markel, ACC Readiness Consultant. 

The course not only covers relationships, it also teaches an inside-out approach to problem solving, and the development of practical skills for handling difficult situations including financial difficulties. It also provides the basic tools for addressing communication issues involving life's daily stressors, to include relocation and deployment concerns.

One of the participants, Mr. Jeff Halstead, a CRC at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., thought one of the reasons the course is excellent is because it is realistic. "Customers value the training knowing they will leave with a set course and knowing that straying off-course is part of the journey." 

He added that as a readiness consultant, he sees firsthand the additional stresses put on military families. "The ever increasing divorce rates speak to the need for family training, and this course is real." 

Seven habits utilizes the traditional learning methods such as handouts and slideshow presentations to introduce the material and a hands-on approach to reinforce learning. Mrs. Michelle Venzke, a community readiness consultant from Langley Air Force Base, especially enjoyed the interactive aspects of the course like the big rock, little rock exercise, which helps families prioritize their goals through visualization. 

"This course provides families with fun, hands on tools and activities that encourage the entire family's participation," said Ms. Venzke. 

If you are interested in enhancing family cohesiveness and developing a nurturing family culture, contact your local A&FRC to reserve a space in the next available class.