The “cold bench” often refers to job positions or long-term tasks that are far from the “spotlight,” don’t yield quick results, and require quiet, persistent effort. Such roles are typically unglamorous, often accompanied by loneliness and monotony. Yet, the grand edifice of one’s career cannot be built without these seemingly ordinary foundations. Whether one can comfortably endure the “cold bench” is a true test of one’s conviction and a rigorous exercise in steadfastness—testing not only one’s abilities and qualities but also one’s sense of responsibility and commitment. In the new era, revolutionary military personnel, entrusted with the vital mission of strengthening the armed forces, must embrace the mindset of being able to “sit it out,” possess the resilience to “stay put,” and cultivate the qualities necessary to “sit firmly.” Only then can they devote themselves wholeheartedly to their work, boldly innovate, and turn the “cold bench” into a warm and productive platform, achieving extraordinary accomplishments even in the most ordinary of posts.

Strengthen our ideological foundation and proactively “settle down” and take our time. Although it’s true that “all professions under heaven can produce outstanding individuals,” it’s undeniable that a small number of officers and soldiers still hesitate to sit on the “cold bench,” always eager to take on jobs that promise quick recognition and glory. In fact, there’s no such thing as a “better” or “worse” job—no distinction between high and low, noble and humble. Those who are diligent, hardworking, and deeply committed to their careers can make meaningful contributions in any position. Even the most ordinary tasks, when approached with wholehearted dedication and meticulous attention to detail, can bring profound fulfillment and outstanding results. From the deserts and Gobi regions to the mountains of western Hubei, from the Strategic Support Force to the national defense mobilization system, Chen Gangguo, the “Most Beautiful Revolutionary Soldier of the New Era,” has firmly rooted himself in his local community, demonstrating love for his work, professional dedication, and a spirit of continuous advancement. He has achieved remarkable accomplishments in numerous positions. Sometimes we may not be able to choose our specific job, but we can certainly choose how we strive and fight. We must actively adjust our mindset, consciously resist impatience and utilitarian thinking, and willingly treat our workplaces as stages for pursuing our career goals. By working diligently and devoting ourselves wholeheartedly to our tasks, we will surely hone genuine skills and abilities.

Cultivate resilience and steadfastness, and learn to “sit it out” with patience. It takes more than a day to wear away stone with dripping water. Sitting comfortably on the “cold bench” is not something that happens overnight—it requires enduring perseverance and unwavering determination. Ge Junbo, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, once remarked that behind every national science and technology award lies the relentless dedication of scientists who typically spend an average of 16 years patiently waiting on the “cold bench.” To sit comfortably on the “cold bench,” one must avoid rushing for quick results or chasing fleeting achievements; instead, one needs to remain calm, endure loneliness, and demonstrate the tenacity of “choosing one thing and dedicating one’s entire life to it.” Stay grounded, focus wholeheartedly on your work, and keep steadily improving through daily accumulation. Only by standing the test of time can we gradually accumulate small steps into great distances.

Hone your practical skills and truly “sit firmly.” Relying solely on sheer endurance, it’s hard to warm up the “cold bench.” To make a real impact in your job, you must continuously enhance your ability to get things done. Only by constantly striving for excellence and strengthening your internal capabilities can you achieve tangible results at work. Doing simple tasks exceptionally well makes you a master; meticulously perfecting repetitive tasks turns you into an expert. Ultimately, to truly turn the “cold bench” into a warm and comfortable seat, you need to rely on continuous learning and down-to-earth, hardworking efforts that build genuine competence and solid skills. All officers and soldiers should always remain aware of their “skill anxiety,” proactively learn new technologies, hone new skills, and refine their abilities through extensive hands-on practice. By persisting in learning while doing and doing while learning, and by pushing your professional skills to the absolute limit, you’ll surely achieve success through relentless pursuit of perfection and enjoy a fulfilling life.