As a former 0814 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) Operator in the US Marine Corps, I have always known the importance of discipline, perseverance, and adaptability. These skills have been invaluable to me in my journey as an entrepreneur. My time in the military has provided me with a solid foundation that has helped me to successfully launch and grow my own business. In this article, I will share my experiences and insights on how my military training has helped me succeed as an entrepreneur.
From Basic Training to Advanced Skills Training
Basic training is a rigorous and challenging experience that prepares you for the challenges you will face in the military. My time in basic training was filled with physically and mentally demanding tasks that pushed me to my limits. But through it all, I learned how to work hard, stay focused, and overcome obstacles. These are all skills that have proven to be essential in my journey as an entrepreneur.
After completing basic training, I was sent to advanced skills training where I learned the ins and outs of being a HIMARS Operator. I learned how to operate and maintain the HIMARS system, as well as how to coordinate with other members of my unit in combat situations. These skills have translated well into my business, as I now have a solid understanding of how to operate complex systems and how to effectively communicate and coordinate with others.
The Transferable Skills of a HIMARS Operator
There are a number of skills that I learned as a HIMARS Operator that have proven to be valuable in my entrepreneurial journey. Here are a few examples:
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Attention to Detail: As a HIMARS Operator, I had to be meticulous in my approach to operating the system. This meant making sure that I followed procedures correctly and checking everything multiple times before pulling the trigger. This attention to detail has served me well in my business, as I am now able to meticulously plan and execute my business strategies.
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Adaptability: In the military, you have to be able to adapt to changing situations quickly and effectively. This same principle applies to entrepreneurship, as you never know what challenges or opportunities may arise. I learned how to think on my feet in the military, and this has helped me to pivot my business strategies as needed.
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Perseverance: In the military, you have to be able to keep going even when things get tough. This same mentality has helped me to push through the difficulties that come with starting and growing a business. I have learned to keep going even when the going gets tough.
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Leadership: As a HIMARS Operator, I was part of a team, and I had to be a leader and motivator for my team members. This experience has helped me to become a better leader in my business, as I am now able to motivate and inspire my employees to do their best work.
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Communication: In the military, effective communication is key to success. This is just as true in entrepreneurship, as you need to be able to communicate effectively with your employees, customers, and partners in order to achieve your goals. I learned how to communicate clearly and effectively in the military, and this has been a valuable skill for me as an entrepreneur.
Why Military Training Succeeds in Entrepreneurship
There are several reasons why military training is well suited to entrepreneurship. Here are the top five:
- Discipline: Military training instills a strong sense of discipline, which is essential for success as an entrepreneur. You need to be disciplined in your approach to work, and you need to be able to stick to your plans even when things get tough.
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Teamwork: In the military, you learn the value of teamwork and collaboration. This skill is especially useful in entrepreneurship as you will need to work with a variety of people, including employees, partners, and customers.
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Risk Management: In the military, you are trained to assess and mitigate risk in high-stakes situations. This same skill is critical for entrepreneurs, as you will need to make decisions about investments and risk-taking in your business.
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Adaptability: The military teaches you how to adapt to changing situations quickly and effectively. This is a key skill for entrepreneurs, who must be able to pivot their strategies as needed in response to market changes.
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Leadership: Military training emphasizes leadership skills, including decision making, motivation, and communication. These skills are critical for entrepreneurs who must lead their businesses to success.
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Sign Up with Veterans First Watch and Succeed in Your New Business
I am proud to say that I have successfully transitioned from HIMARS Operator to entrepreneur, and my military training has played a big role in my success. If you are a veteran looking to start your own business, I highly recommend joining Veterans First Watch. This organization provides support and resources for veteran entrepreneurs, and it is a great way to connect with other veterans who are on the same path.
In conclusion, the skills I learned as a HIMARS Operator have been invaluable in my journey as an entrepreneur. From attention to detail, adaptability, and perseverance to leadership and communication, my military training has provided me with the foundation I need to succeed in business. If you are a veteran considering entrepreneurship, I encourage you to tap into the skills you learned in the military and put them to work for you.
