If you know anything about cars, you know that the only parts that (should!) ever touch the ground when you drive are four fist-sized patches of tire. They may get bigger when you punch the gas, smaller when you brake, but in general, that’s all that connects you to the road.

In my latest video below, I talk about the F/A-18 Hornet’s landing gear, which is a monster compared to the size of the plane itself. Having done my share of lining up on the meatball at both day and night, I have to say it was one of the best feelings to know that it wouldn’t break.

It simply didn’t, not once while I was a pilot. So over 11 years, and countless landings I could count on those big, knobby wheels to help me get on the deck of the carrier and stay there.

Like I say in the video, you need to find one thing that helps you and provides that support. I know that the Afterburner Blog and my program are key parts of that support system that you need to build, but it doesn’t end there.

We have a community hear, the phone calls and everything else. You need the motivation during tough patches to be able to stick with it and get the right slot you need to fly the fighter jet of your dreams.

But the landing gear also offers some insight into looking into the small parts of what is going to lead you to success. Smaller aspects of your training are just as important as brushing up on your math and science skills.

This week, let’s focus on improving the parts of your program to become a fighter pilot where you’re lagging. We aren’t all perfect, so tell me, what aspect are you going to put more effort into so that you’ll achieve your goals?