How to Decide if you should Join the Military
Joining the military is no small decision. This will impact your life greatly, and it is not such an easy decision to reverse. Typically you will commit for a certain amount of time, so you will want to be sure that it is what you really want. Of course it can have a lot of advantages as well. The following are some tips on how to decide if you should join the military.
Consider whether the lifestyle is right for you
The military is a far different lifestyle than the life of a civilian. Is it right for you? Most in the military will travel quite a bit, and live in different places, often overseas. You will often not have much say in where you are going. Do you like to travel? If so, it can be a great way to see the world. You also need to think about being separated from your family. You will have to make sure that you feel that you and they can handle this. In the military, you must also have discipline and be able to take orders. Certain people can handle that better than others. It can also be very physically demanding.
Consider the benefits
There are many benefits to joining the military. You are doing a great thing and can feel proud of what you are doing for the country. You might get the opportunity to do amazing things such as fly a fighter jet or live in a submarine. The work you can do can really make a difference. You will have a job and the different benefits such as insurance, etc.
Consider the disadvantages
Make sure you look at what might be a disadvantage for you such as traveling, being away from family or dangerous situations. Of course, for some these are advantages, too.
Make a pro and con list
If you truly can’t decide one great way is to make a pro and con list. Write on a piece of paper all of the reasons why you should join the military, and on the other side all of the reasons why you should not. Truly think about all of the points to see if one seems to have more merit over the other. In addition, one other thing you can do is to make your decision before you actually commit yourself. In other words, say to yourself “This is my decision, I am (or am not) going to join the military.” Then just try it out for a few days. See if you feel happy, sad, relieved, excited or whatever other emotions by this. You can also try the other one as well. A lot of times one will just feel right.
Joining the military is a big decision, and should be considered carefully. You can use the above tips to help you decide on whether this is right for you.
