Life can be really stressful for enlisted service members. We can often get distracted with the mission, helping others, and just grinding it out. However, when we’re in the thick of things, we tend to overlook taking care of ourselves.
Investing in your personal growth is critical. I’ll share my thoughts on how self-care can lead to a more fulfilling and successful life. I use this term broadly, but in general I look at personal growth and self-care as anything which enhances your ability to be the best version of you possible.
The Neglected Art of Self-Care
For those of us who are natural doers, self-care can easily slip through the cracks. We become so focused on helping others that we forget to prioritize our own well-being. It’s essential to understand that you can’t effectively help others until you’ve learned to help yourself.
Picture yourself on a battlefield or in training. Before rendering first-aid to your battle buddy, your immediate priority is eliminating the threat and ensuring your safety. You can’t help anyone else if you become a casualty too.
Real life is very similar. You must secure your own well-being before you can genuinely aid others.
Practical Steps for Self-Care and Improvement
What does self-care entail in practical terms? It involves nurturing your physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are some actionable steps to consider:
- Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep. Adequate rest is essential for a productive day.
For me, I need to get at least seven (7) hours of sleep every day. If I don’t, things start to go downhill quickly. I can try to power through on coffee temporarily, but I can’t borrow energy form tomorrow forever – I have to get sleep to really recharge. - Physical Activity: Incorporate regular outdoor activities or exercise into your routine. Physical fitness reduces stress and improves your mood.
For most of us in the military, physical fitness is mandatory. Even when I have the option to skip, I still work out. I just feel better and it’s good for my health. - Create White Space: Dedicate time for relaxation and introspection. Whether it’s a moment of meditation, a peaceful run, or a motorcycle ride, engage in activities that help you clear your mind.
For me, a long walk, ruck, or run or a ride on my motorcycle forces me to slow down and sit with my thoughts. This is really helpful for me to process everything I’ve got going on. I always make better decisions when I’ve had more time to think. - Seek Support: It is 100% okay, and encouraged, to seek counseling and support. Think about it as getting a second opinion on something you’re going though. Or at least that’s how I like to think about it. I probably already know what I need to do, but getting a second opinion can be really helpful.
Resources like counseling, therapy, or conversations with a battle buddy or chaplain can provide valuable support. My favorite resources are:
Military OneSource: You can get personal counseling, get linked up with a financial counselor, or even get marriage counseling.
Military Family and Life Counseling (MFLC): I have also talked with MFLCs before and they’ve always been very helpful.
Chaplains: I’m a big fan of chaplains. They’re covered under the Military Rules of Evidence (they can’t be subpoenaed) and they are legally allowed and obligated to keep everything you say between you and them.
Veteran’s Crisis Line: I haven’t used this one personally, but I wanted to include it as well. It’s the easiest to remember, you literally just call 988, chat online, or text the number 838255.
The Art of Slowing Down
We have access to an overwhelming volume of self-help content. While personal growth is essential, it’s equally vital to avoid becoming trapped in a cycle of perpetual consumption without practical application. Instead of chasing quantity, prioritize quality in your self-improvement materials.
Limit the number of books you read and focus on actively implementing the lessons from each one. For instance, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” is an excellent starting point, offering a comprehensive framework for personal growth. Remember, true growth stems from the application of knowledge to your life.
I really try to force myself to limit the number of books and podcasts I consume so I can actually have time to implement all the great ideas. It’s also interesting to see the similarities between all the different self-help and self-improvement books out there.
Stay True to Your Goals
Challenges and stressful moments are inevitable. However, maintaining clarity about your goals and the reasons behind your journey will keep you motivated. Whether your aim is financial stability, home ownership, or another objective, a strong sense of purpose will sustain your drive.
I am a big believer in getting clear about your “why” for investing and going down this path.
Conclusion
Investing in your personal growth is far from selfish; it’s essential. By caring for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, you position yourself to be the best version of yourself. Only then can you genuinely help others and achieve your goals.
Remember that self-investment is an ongoing process, requiring dedication and commitment. Yet, the rewards it yields are immeasurable. Take a moment today to reflect on your journey and contemplate how prioritizing self-care can lead to a better life.
If you have a personal finance success story or a valuable lesson learned, I invite you to share it with us. Your experiences and insights can inspire and support others on their path to success.