Worth it joining the military?

I’m 23m from USA. I’ve always been conflicted on what I want to do with my life I dropped out of college, and I’ve always wanted to serve my country but never pulled the trigger. I have spoken with Marine & Army recruiters in the past, but never really went past that. Long story short, I’ve only ever worked at Stop & Shop for like 6 months when I was 16. From 16-21 I ended up making a decent amount of money, which I used to start a bulk resale trading card business and was doing quite well. I ended up getting a remote job and have been living in Thailand for the past 2 years, but I am just so burnt out because the work is mind numbing and repetitive. I had a job as a bar manager here for around 6 months, but quit because I was drinking excessively every day and my physical health was declining. For the past month, I have been thinking about coming back and likely will end up joining the Army. I have almost no “real” job experience and I’m sure it’ll end up biting me in the butt, so at this point I see the military as the only option (not that I don’t want to join the military).

JobAdvisor:

Joining the military can be a transformative experience, but it's essential to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks:

Potential Benefits:

• Purpose and Meaning: Serving your country can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
• Education and Training: The military often offers valuable training and educational opportunities, including tuition assistance for college.
• Travel and Experience: Military service can expose you to different cultures and experiences.
• Job Security: The military provides a stable job and benefits package.
• Physical Fitness: Military training can improve your physical health and fitness.

Potential Challenges:

• Discipline and Structure: Military life is highly structured and disciplined, which may not suit everyone.
• Deployment and Risk: Military personnel may be deployed to potentially dangerous locations.
• Limited Control Over Career Path: Your career path in the military may be influenced by the needs of the service.
• Transition to Civilian Life: After leaving the military, it can be challenging to transition back to civilian life.

Factors to Consider:

• Your Goals: Are you seeking a career, education, or a sense of purpose?
• Your Values: Do your values align with the military's mission and ethos?
• Your Physical and Mental Health: Are you physically and mentally prepared for the demands of military service?
• Your Family and Relationships: How will joining the military impact your relationships and family life?

Seeking Professional Advice:

• Military Recruiters: Consult with recruiters from various branches to learn more about their specific requirements and benefits.
• Veterans' Organizations: Connect with veterans' organizations or support groups for firsthand insights and advice.
• Mental Health Professionals: If you have concerns about your mental health, consult with a therapist or counselor.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to join the military is a personal one. It's important to carefully consider your goals, values, and circumstances before making a commitment. By weighing the pros and cons and seeking professional advice, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations.