The Other Side of Optimization
Written by Nate Palin
When we debate how to “optimize” the human weapon system, we compare idealistic approaches that aim to sharpen the tip of the spear and maximize warfighter lethality. While performance ideals have their place and military professionals should be training to achieve overmatch against an unforgiving enemy - whatever that might look like for their particular vocations - we cannot sharpen the edge of a blade that’s yet to be forged.
The reality of physical, tactical, and technical development of warfighters is so filled with competing demands that optimization is a pipe dream.
Or is it?
Optimization Defined
Because the concept of optimization is so heavily debated, with some of us using it to elevate the degree of professional intention we bring to physical fitness and others of us dismissing it as unattainable, I decided to take a look at the actual definition of the term.
Here’s what the Oxford English Dictionary provides for a definition:
And here’s what Merriam Webster provides:
While these definitions essentially say the same thing, I believe one presents optimization from more of a “glass half full” perspective while the other presents optimization from more of a “glass half empty” perspective. The Oxford definition feels more like the old adage of “playing the cards you’re dealt” while the Merriam definition sounds more like Frederick Winslow Taylor’s robotic approach to industrial efficiency (as I learned thirdhand from General McCrystal’s Team of Teams).
Optimization Discussed
To use a human performance analogy, Oxford suggests “a few less beers on Friday night to reduce garbage calories and increase sleep quality so you feel better Saturday morning,” while Merriam suggests “abstaining from alcohol altogether to maximize the sleep score assessed by the most valid and reliable wearable on the market.” Both suggestions are sound and similar advice but one is considerably more idealistic compared to the other.
Personally, I value and apply both approaches. I believe we need to meet warfighters in their current reality; however, I also believe we need to reduce inefficiencies and continuously strive to close the gap between where they are and where they could be specific to physical and mental health and performance.
To successfully enact a bilateral approach to warfighter optimization, lead with enough empathy to understand their starting point and the obstacles between their current and desired performance states, but relentlessly challenge the status quo through the application and implementation of coaching, education, technology, data, and other performance resources that exist in a field where we love to push the needle of what humanly possible.
Focus less on sharpening the blade and focus more on empowering the warfighter who wields it.
Endex
When conditions allow for optimization by way of maximizing efficiency and controlling contributing variables, take advantage! Prescribe and periodize. However, realize that the approach that works best in a controlled environment, no matter how complicated, is not necessarily what works best in a considerably more common VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) environment. In the case of the more common VUCA reality, influence (vs prescribe) and adjust (vs periodize), and accept effective interventions as a win because efficient interventions might not be possible.
AGD Communications
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