A career of doom or glory—what will you choose?

  • Published
  • By Col. Sandra Schmidt-Berringer
  • 60th Medical Operations Squadron
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE,Calif. --  Everyone has dreams and aspirations when they enter the military. Many came in to continue their education. All want to serve this great nation of ours and many want a career where they can earn a good living and have many benefits to include health care.

So what happens between these dreams and aspirations and a career of doom? There are many distracters that will certainly not get you promoted or result in a less than honorable discharge from the military.

In my 17 months in command this time around, I've seen careers end for use, distribution and sale of illegal and prescription drugs; DUIs; unprofessional, adulterous relationships; inappropriate sexual comments; poor management of personal finances, and failure to lead by example when placed in supervisory and leadership positions. In many cases alcohol was instrumental in the early demise of an Airman's career.

I've seen many a good Airman's career deteriorate when they hung out with others who introduced them to illegal drugs. Rest assured when these so-called friends get caught for using illegal drugs -- and they will -- they will not hesitate to bring you along in their journey of doom: jail-time, personal shame, along with a less than honorable discharge from the Air Force.

Ask yourself: Are these few minutes of pleasure worth a lifetime of regret?

On the opposite end, what leads to a successful career? First, "bloom where planted." Do the very best in the job you are given and others will notice and promote you to greater and increasingly professionally-developing roles.

Second, complete advanced and professional military education -- never stop learning! Get your associate, bachelor, or masters' degree and don't rule out a PhD! The benefits can't be beat: 100 percent tuition assistance, GI Bill, AFIT undergraduate and graduate education and many more! Don't just look at advanced degrees -- look at financial and leadership courses like "The 7 Habits of Effective Leaders" offered at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. Do your PME as soon as you're eligible; do it gladly and learn how to be a better Airman.

Third, get involved at your flight, squadron, group, wing and community level. You will find you will grow personally and professionally.

Fourth, put others before yourself -- it's not about you, but rather the team. Remember leadership isn't a popularity contest, but about gaining and earning respect -- this is necessary to get the job done right!

Fifth, choose your friends and partner for life carefully -- they can make or break your career.

I'd like to spend a little more time talking more about choosing that life partner. It amazes me that folks will take months to pick out that dream phone, car and vacation and yet choose to marry someone after a very short courtship.

Why the rush? Have you discussed your short- and long-term dreams? Are they committed to supporting your career to include six to 12-month deployments every two to three years, TDYs, and PCS moves every four years or more frequently? Have you discussed finances -- joint or separate banking accounts, beliefs regarding raising children, religion, and even division of household chores?

Take time to get to know each other as friends before jumping into a romantic relationship. Meet each other's families -- it will tell you volumes if you have similar life values. Does your significant other bring the best or worse out of you? Are you better with or without them? Go on dates -- appreciate each other and watch your love grow!

Sixth, find and cherish balance in life. Take time to smell the roses. If your life is totally focused on your career, you may end up with a successful career but without a family or partner at your side to share in your successes. Take time to exercise, go on vacations, read. Tour the highlights in the state or country you live in, that the military so graciously moves you to free of charge!

In summary, it's your choice if you will have a career of doom or glory. Know and follow the high standards of an Air Force life on and off duty.

If you do encounter difficulties and/or challenges in your personal or professional life be courageous and run to counseling with the chaplain, the Mental Health clinic, Airman and Family Readiness Center, Military One Source and the many other helping agencies -- all of which are readily available and free!

Keep your finances in order -- pay yourself first! Invest in the Thrift Saving Plan or some other savings vehicle. Be ready for a rainy day - and be sure you have emergency funds for those unexpected life events or deaths. Invest in your career -- no one cares more than you about your career -- plan out short- and long-term goals to include PME and advanced education.

Choose, walk, talk wisely and you too can enjoy a wonderful professionally and personally rewarding career -- after all, it's in your hands!