As a former Fire Support Specialist (13F) in the US Army, I was trained to lead and execute missions that required precision, teamwork, and quick thinking. These skills and experiences have been invaluable to me in my transition to entrepreneurship. In this article, I will share how my military training has prepared me for the challenges of running my own business, and why I believe it is a valuable asset for any veteran looking to start their own entrepreneurial journey.
Basic training and advanced skills training in the military provided a foundation of discipline and focus that I have been able to apply to my entrepreneurial endeavors. The early days of basic training were filled with intense physical and mental challenges, designed to test our limits and build our resilience. It was a challenging time, but also one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The skills I learned in basic training, such as problem-solving under pressure, teamwork, and adaptability, have been essential in running my business.
My advanced skills training as a Fire Support Specialist further honed my leadership and decision-making abilities. As a Fire Support Specialist, I was responsible for coordinating and executing missions with a team of soldiers. This required quick thinking, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills. These are all traits that have helped me to successfully run my own business and make decisions with confidence.
So, how do these skills translate to entrepreneurship? In many ways, running a business is similar to executing a mission in the military. You must work with a team of employees, manage resources, and make decisions that affect the success of the business. Here are the top five reasons why I believe my military training has been essential to my entrepreneurial success:
-
Discipline and focus - The strict discipline and focus required in the military helps to keep me focused and organized in my business ventures.
-
Problem-solving under pressure - The ability to make quick decisions and find solutions in high-pressure situations is a critical skill in both the military and in business.
-
Teamwork - In the military, you learn to work with others to achieve a common goal. This is a key component of running a successful business, where teamwork is essential to success.
-
Adaptability - In both the military and in business, you must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and find new solutions to problems.
-
Leadership - As a Fire Support Specialist, I was responsible for leading and coordinating missions with my team. This experience has given me the confidence and skills to lead and motivate my employees in my business.
To take advantage of the opportunities available to veterans in entrepreneurship, I recommend signing up with Veterans First Watch. This organization provides resources and support for veterans looking to start their own businesses, including access to funding and mentorship programs.
I am proud of my time in the US Army and the skills I learned during my service. These experiences have been invaluable in helping me succeed as an entrepreneur, and I am grateful for the opportunities available to veterans in this field. I am excited to continue growing my business and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
