I’ve been through several selection processes in my life. Some extremely difficult, some less so, but all important to me. I’ve helped run two, both of which I considered extremely difficult for the organization they were used for. If there’s one lesson I would share from that experience that applies to everyone, regardless of their profession or culture, it’s simply this. Selection is a never ending process. This applies academically, professionally and athletically. It applies to warriors and police officers alike. It applies to artists and politicians, to accountants and bartenders. It applies in relationships and rivalries. It is a universal truth.

The wrong person thinks that they have “made it,” they have “arrived.” The joke in my early days in the army was “I got mine,” talking about tabs or skill badges. The right person knows that what matters for literally everything important is performance on demand. What can I do today to earn my place at the table? In easy times, some can skate by on past accomplishments or bequeathed status. The moment times turn hard though, that falls by the wayside at a shocking pace.

I remember my selection for a contractor spot I held that took me to Iraq in 2004. Everyone in my class trying out for this job had some sort of SOF experience, and the cadre were all SMU vets. The shooting standards were by no means easy, and weeded out a large percentage of the candidates. A veteran SEAL failed his one allowed reshoot, and was told by a cadre member that he was done with the process. He objected, loudly enough for everyone to hear, that he was a sniper with combat experience and shouldn’t be removed from the course. The cadre member placed his hand on the SEAL’s shoulder and said kindly in a deep southern accent, “I’m sure you were Bubba. I’m sure you were a good one. But today, you didn’t have it and you’re done.”

That has always stuck with me in the years since. You either have it today or you don’t. Performance on demand. Your history and experience informs your performance. And, we can contribute in different ways in different places and times in our lives. But what matters, really matters, is what can I do when it counts. Not intent, not past successes, just successful action now. What can I do today to earn my place at the table? Selection is a never ending process.