Definition
The standard antidote to the hazardous attitude of Resignation. Resignation is the belief that 'what's the use?' — that outcomes are out of the pilot's hands and that effort won't change the result. The pilot counters this by deliberately reminding themselves that they are not powerless, that their actions matter, and that they can influence the outcome of the flight.
Plain English
When a pilot starts thinking 'there's nothing I can do, it's out of my hands,' they stop themselves and remember: their decisions and actions still matter, and they can change how this turns out.
Context Anchor
Used in aviation decision-making training when discussing hazardous attitudes, especially resignation.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents the resignation attitude from leading to inaction that could result in an accident.
Grounding Statement
When a flight problem starts to feel overwhelming, this phrase points the pilot back to the next useful action.
Intuition Check
Wrong assumption: this is just positive thinking. Correct meaning: in FAA training, it is a specific reminder to act instead of surrendering to the situation.
Example Sentence 1
When the alternator failed and the weather started closing in, the pilot caught himself thinking he was just along for the ride — then said out loud, 'I'm not helpless. I can make a difference,' and started working the divert plan.
Example Sentence 2
Recognizing the early signs of resignation, the pilot repeated “I’m not helpless. I can make a difference” and elected to land at the nearest suitable airport.