How competitive are military special forces jobs?

I'm considering joining the military and I'm really interested in special forces roles. Can anyone provide insight into how competitive these jobs are? What should I focus on during my preparation to increase my chances?

Military special forces roles are highly competitive. They require rigorous physical and mental training, substantial commitment, and a high level of discipline. They are often sought after due to the unique challenges and experiences they offer.

If you're interested in such roles, it's important to be in excellent physical condition. The training involves grueling exercises that test your strength, agility, and endurance. Regularly running, lifting weights, and doing activities like swimming or rucking (long distance walking carrying a heavy backpack) will help prepare you effectively.

In terms of mental attributes, characteristics like resilience, perseverance, attention to detail, and strong leadership skills are often considered critical in these jobs. It's not just about brute strength; special forces roles often require strategic thinking and decision-making under intense pressure.

Additionally, having advanced skills in areas like language fluency, medical training, and diving can sometimes boost your chances. These are valuable in many special forces contexts.

Lastly, it's important to consider your motivation and willingness to commit. These roles are not just jobs but lifestyles, and require a high level of dedication.

Remember that every branch of the military has their own special operations forces, each with their own selection process and training regimen. Research more on the specific requirements and expectations of the branch you're interested in. You could also reach out to a recruiter or try to speak with someone currently in the role you're interested in, to get a firsthand account of what it takes.