If you haven’t heard anyone say they are ‘putting out fires’ this week, you probably haven’t been in a single meeting. The firefighter analogy is often used to exemplify a team or person that is reactive as opposed to proactive, and it’s generally used in a negative light. But here’s what I’ll tell you about firefighters: in a reactive role, there is no one better.
They are the gold standard of preparedness- everything they do is to maximize efficiency and minimize response time. Their equipment is sparkling clean and inspected regularly. They have specific roles planned ahead of time for them to enact during their response. They are also brave and mission-driven, which are two other traits we need in our ranks. We should strive to be so prepared and ready to serve our organizations to be lucky enough to be described as a firefighter.