Boot camp can be an intense but rewarding experience for people. Boot camp is designed to challenge you, but is also intended to make you better. These 11 tips will help you get the most out of your boot camp.
1. Get in Shape Before You Go
Boot camp is extremely physically demanding. You will have a much better chance of succeeding if you get in good physical condition before you go.
Do a lot of running to build up your speed and endurance. Lift some weights to build your strength. Work on your flexibility and agility. Clean up your diet and consider adding supplements, such as Power Life by Tony Horton.
Keep a positive attitude and bring your game face. There are going to be times when you are going to be miserable. You will be physically exhausted. Your drill sergeant will yell at you. You will screw things up. Take it all in stride.
Instead of viewing boot camp as something you have to endure, view it as a crucible that will make you better.
3. Don't Question Your Instructors
Your drill sergeants and instructors are trying to teach you the skills you will need to stay alive in combat. Don't question their orders and don't cop an attitude.
You will just make life harder on yourself and you'll end up having to do what they told you to do anyway.
4. Never Leave Your Wingman
The military isn't a solo endeavor. How well you take care of your team and how well they take care of you can mean the difference between life and death.
Always look out for your squadmates and never leave them behind in search of personal glory.
5. Remember It May Seem Like Forever, but It Isn't
When times get tough, it may seem like boot camp will never end, but it will. Depending on which branch you are in, boot camp will last between 7 and 12 weeks. You can endure almost anything for two to three months.
Hopefully, you have learned to see the positive side of boot camp, but if you haven't, you can at least comfort yourself with the knowledge that the finish line is in sight.
6. Do Your Homework
Boot camp isn't all about the physical aspects of being in the military.
You also have to demonstrate knowledge of the phonetic alphabet, military terms, tactics and a variety of other topics. Pour as much energy into your studies as you do your workouts.
7. Don't Seek Attention
If your instructors see leadership potential in you, they will ferret it out on their own. Don't try to show off. Focus on following instructions and being a good team player.
8. Don't Take It Personal
Your instructors are testing your ability to perform in stressful situations. They aren't picking on you because they don't like you.
9. Don't Isolate Yourself
The military can be a hard life. You will need friends to get you through. Make friends in your unit and stay in touch with friends and family back home. Help those around you avoid the pitfall of isolation.
10. Listen More Than You Speak
You are in boot camp to learn. Listen to your instructors and don't speak unless someone asks you to.
11. Focus on Your Priorities
Discipline is a huge part of a successful military career. Avoid the temptation to put off the things you have to do, in favor of the things you want to do.
Get your chores and studies out of the way first and then spend whatever time you have leftover doing everything else.
Joining the military is not an easy career, but it can be a very fulfilling one. Boot camp will help prepare you for a successful career. These tips will help you get the most out of your boot camp experience.