5 THINGS YOU SHOULD DO RIGHT AFTER BOOT CAMP
TABLE OF CONTENTS
So, you’ve made it through boot camp—congratulations! This is a huge accomplishment, and you should be proud of yourself. But now what? What should you do next to set yourself up for success? Whether you’re heading into active duty or the reserves, there are a few key things you should focus on right after boot camp. These tips come from someone who’s been through it all and learned some lessons the hard way. Let’s dive in!
PLAN AHEAD AND SET GOALS
After boot camp, it’s easy to feel a little lost. You’ve been in a structured environment for months, and now you have more freedom. The first thing you should do is make a plan. Write down your goals—whether it’s saving money, staying fit, or learning a new skill. Having a clear plan will keep you motivated and focused.
Pro tip: Use tools like ChatGPT to help you create a schedule. For example, you can ask it to make a daily or weekly timetable for you. This way, you’ll know exactly what to do with your time off.
STAY FIT AND AVOID COMPLACENCY
Boot camp got you into great shape, but it’s easy to fall back into old habits once you’re home. Don’t let that happen! Staying fit is crucial, especially if you’re heading back into training or active duty.
Here’s the thing: When you’re back in your old environment, it’s tempting to skip workouts or slack off. But trust me, you’ll regret it later. Keep pushing yourself, even if it’s just doing calisthenics in your backyard. Staying in shape will help you avoid injuries and stay ready for whatever the military throws at you.
GET YOUR FINANCES IN ORDER
Money management is a big deal, especially in the military. After boot camp, you might feel like treating yourself, but be careful! A lot of new recruits blow their paychecks on unnecessary stuff like expensive cars, tattoos, or weekend trips.
Here’s a better approach: Before buying anything, ask yourself if you really need it. Wait a week, and if you still want it, make sure you can afford it two or three times over. Also, take advantage of military discounts, like the T-Mobile military plan, which can save you a ton of money.
And don’t forget to open a Navy Federal account—it’s a great way to manage your money and start saving for the future.
STICK TO YOUR SCHEDULE
Creating a schedule is one thing, but sticking to it is another. After boot camp, you’ve got the discipline—use it! Treat yourself like your own drill instructor and hold yourself accountable.
If you stay consistent, you’ll see amazing results in just a year or two. Whether it’s working out, saving money, or learning a new skill, small efforts add up over time.
INVEST IN A GOOD LAPTOP
In today’s world, having a reliable laptop is a game-changer. Whether you want to start a side hustle, take online courses, or just stay organized, a good laptop is essential.
You don’t need the newest model—a used MacBook Pro can last you 4-5 years and help you get started on your goals. Use your off time wisely to work on things that will set you apart from others.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Boot camp is just the beginning of your journey. The habits you build right after graduation will shape your future. Stay focused, stay disciplined, and keep working toward your goals.
If you’re about to join the military or just graduated, take these tips to heart. And if you’re a veteran, share your own advice in the comments below. Let’s help each other succeed!
Thanks for reading, and good luck on your journey!
© 2024 Joey Nguyen
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