One of my colleagues is failing basic fire academy for one simple reason: pride.
 
He’s a young guy. He’s a smart guy. By his own admission, he’s only failed the tests that count. He does just fine on the quizzes that don’t count, as well as the hands-on skills.
 
I asked him today why the old timers and career guys on his volunteer fire department aren’t helping him. He said they aren’t around to help him. “Well, have you asked them?” I inquired. Nope.
 
Two of my firefighters who are in the same class have offered to help him study, but he chooses not to study with them. I’ve offered to get him study help from the entire department. His response: “No thanks. I’ll manage.”
 
Pride is killing this young man’s career before it even gets started. If he makes it through the academy, what happens next? His pride will alienate those he works with. And worse, it could get him injured — or even killed — down the road.
 
We’ve all seen the same thing in fellow firefighters, young and old. Have you ever noticed that those who are proudest of themselves are those people who you really don’t want with you?
 
Pride has a certain place in the fire service — company pride, department pride and shift pride are all positive. But individual pride needs to take a back seat in this business. Sure, you might be the pride of the crew, but you’re still part of the crew. You go nowhere without them. You can’t drive, pump, rescue and/or squirt water without the rest of your company, shift or department. If you can’t accept and understand that, as well as demonstrate the teamwork needed, it’s likely your crew doesn’t want you and would trade you in a heartbeat.
 
It’s OK to be proud of yourself as long as you recognize your faults and get help early when a little help is needed. Don’t wait until late in the day when someone has to come in and save your butt.