Standard or Potential? Which one do you expect from yourself/your Teams?

A standard is a minimum, we can't lower it but that in no way means we can't raise expectations above it. Case in point, the minimum standard on physical fitness tests is painfully low but no one should be training to meet the minimum even though that is technically the passing standard. Standards simply exist to ensure the whole system doesn't collapse on itself, it's a baseline that you should be above.

In the Navy, I was expected to meet the standard for my current rank if I wanted to keep it. In order to be promoted I had to meet the standard for the next higher rank and beyond. Now as a civilian manager I have the same philosophy. If you you meet the standard for your current job you get to keep it. If you step up and exceed that standard and perform to to your capabilities, you get noticed more quickly when the opportunity arises for a promotion.

A standard is a set goal for an organization that every individual or team is expected to meet and exceed when possible. Potential is the maximum output from the individual or a team. It is up to leaders to mold that potential into something greater and greater. To do this leaders must counsel, coach and mentor all those around them. This is done physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually using training in all methods possible. Comprehensive Soldier Fitness teaches us how to expand each of those areas in a general setting. It is up to the individual leaders to create ways to enhance potential in the career setting.