Military: Job or Lifestyle?

I'm trying to decide if the military would be a good fit for me after high school. Would you say it's more of a job or a lifestyle choice? How does your daily life and identity change once you join?

The decision to join the military is one that can have a profound impact on your life, but those impacts aren't contained simply within the boundaries of a conventional 9-5 job. In many ways, joining the military can be considered a lifestyle choice due to the nature of responsibilities, the values you'll embody, and the long-term skills you acquire.

It's a job in the sense that you have specific roles and tasks each day. You choose a military occupational specialty, which could be anything from a medic to an intelligence analyst, and this becomes your job within the service. You'll get paid and receive benefits such as insurance, and you'll have opportunities for advancement. Just like in a civilian job, the better you perform, the more likely you are to advance in rank and increase your pay.

However, it's also a lifestyle choice because it goes beyond just what you're doing from 9 to 5. Military service is a 24/7 commitment. You live according to a certain code of conduct and carry out orders, which can often mean long hours and deployments away from family and friends. You might find yourself moving around a lot, living on bases, and experiencing different cultures and locations.

Your identity does likely change when you join the military. Not only will you be a soldier, sailor, airman, etc., but you'll also be part of a team with a common mission. Many veterans say that this gives them a strong sense of purpose and belonging. The values of discipline, respect, and integrity, which are central to military culture, can become ingrained in you.

The extent of these changes in your daily life and identity can depend on which branch you join, the role you take on, and your individual experiences. It's best to do some research, talk to people who've served, and consider your own values and goals before making a decision. Remember, this is a significant commitment, and it's okay to take your time to make sure it's the right choice for you.