[August 24, 2015] In 1974 after joining the U.S. Army, I quickly discovered that I was completely unprepared. I’m sure the Drill Sergeants got a good laugh at my awkwardness and weak physical condition. For those interested in joining any of the military services, a few hard lessons learned from those who served honorably are listed here to help you prepare and gain a little advantage.
The motto of the Boy Scouts is “Be Prepared”1 and that is exactly what you should do. By the way, these things will prepare you regardless of what occupation you may ultimately decide to try your hand at doing. Be sure that you are physically, mentally, spiritually, and that your family is ready for an experience that will test you as a person.
The more you do to get ready, the more you can concentrate on learning what the military teaches you, thus putting you ahead of everyone else.
Physical:
- Get into good physical shape by anaerobic and aerobic exercises; especially running, doing sit-ups, push-ups.
- Learn the precise names and techniques used by the military to do their stretching methods and formal exercises.
- Learn and follow good hygienic practices under less than ideal circumstances.
- Learn to swim, tread water, and float.
- For at least a year take hand-to-hand combat classes, Judo, Taekwondo, or similar martial arts.
- Give up all snack foods, chips, and energy drinks. Eat fully balanced meals three times per day.
- If you smoke or chew tobacco, use recreational drugs, drink alcohol to excess, then quit as soon as possible.
- Learn how to shoot a military rifle and pistol from a professional; then practice, practice, practice.
Mental:
- Take on-line military “practice” entrance exams, learn where your deficiencies are, and fix them.
- Look up entrance standards for the military service of interest and make sure you meet them all.
- Learn about military culture by talking with current service members and veterans.
- Teach yourself about military rank, uniforms, and how to properly wear them.
- Read up on the history of the service of interest to you.
- Get some experience in the repair of vehicles and equipment.
- Teach yourself some of the basics of electricity and electronics.
- Learn about teamwork and how to follow others who have been appointed as a leader.
- Have someone teach you how to drive a manual-shift vehicle and use of the hand-break and accelerator simultaneously.
- Start getting up early in the morning and at a consistent time to adapt to the time the military starts.
- Take at least a year of college. Focus on learning how to study, networking, and practice test-taking method.
Spiritual:
- Get more involved in the values and customs of your religion.
- Learn more about your religious values and how the military values are similar and different.
- Learn how to apply the Golden Rule and respect for others.
- Teach yourself relaxation techniques.
- Adopt and practice a positive attitude, especially while under extreme mental pressure.
Familial:
- Let your family know of your desire to join the military.
- Talk with your family about what you bring to the military and what you think you will get from it.
- Find out if any family member has served and speak with them, ask their advice, and treat them respectfully.
- Work closely with all your immediate family members to get their concurrence with your decision.
- Help educate your family on the military but be careful not to overdo it.
- Get a separate bank checking account and inform a trusted family member about it.
Ask yourself the following question: “Do I have the mental fortitude to stick to my decision to join?” If so, you might actually make it.
[Don’t forget to “Like” the Leader Maker at our Facebook Page.]
————————