Would the military provide structure in my life?

Hey guys, I need a bit of help. I'm currently a junior in high school and I often struggle with maintaining a structured lifestyle. I keep hearing that life in military provides a decent amount of structure and discipline. I'm wondering if that's true and considering joining after graduation. Can anyone shed some light on this?

It's accurate to say that the military provides a substantial amount of structure and discipline. When you enlist, a large part of your life becomes dictated by the military's schedule, expectations, and rules. This necessarily manifests in a level of routine and predictability, which can be helpful if you've struggled with structure in the past.

The most immediate structure would be apparent in basic training. This is the first stage for all people entering the military, and it is extremely organized. It is designed to impart the discipline, physical readiness, and skills necessary for military service. You will have a very clearly defined schedule, with every minute of the day planned out, including not just training activities like physical exercise and learning military protocol, but also basics like meals and sleep times.

Once you're placed in your specific role, there will also be inherent structure. Each branch and role within the military has expectations and tasks that must be performed, and typically, the day-to-day schedule is much more rigid than it is in the civilian world. Even aspects like when you eat, sleep, or go to the gym can often be dictated by your assignment.

That being said, there may be trade-offs to consider. The military is a huge commitment, and there's a lot more to it than just the structure. You have to be prepared for the dedication and commitment it requires, ranging from physical fitness expectations to potential deployment. Before you make a decision, consider speaking with a few people currently serving or who have served in the past to get a sense of what military life is like beyond just the structure aspect. It's crucial to ensure this path aligns with your interests, strengths, and long-term goals.