5 life Lessons I learnt in the Military

Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I Lesego Patricia Malatse would ever join the Military. Camo gear, boots of steel and a rifle stripped across my body like an accessory. I've always been the creative type but here I was in a Discipline driven environment, Command and Execute , ask no questions.

I mean growing up we all have a plan. A map of our life;  the destination and the directions. Most of us find ourselves in places our minds couldn't have possibly conceived, you tell yourself at a certain age you would have acquired certain wealth and success but it doesn't work that way. 

I'm grateful for how my life has panned out. I would not trade my experiences for anything else in the world, they have shaped me into who I am. For every action there is a reaction. For every path taken there are lessons to be learned, memories to be made and a lifetime of knowledge to be gained. 

These are 5 life lessons that I've learned, ofcourse there is more but that would require a whole reality tv show, a couple of interviews and a documentary; the blog would not be enough (laughs out loud).

Lesson 1: No man is an island

We all need each other somehow, we are all put on this earth to assist one another in some way or form. Be kind and helpful, you never know when you might need the next person.

Lesson 2: It's all in the Mind

The mind is a powerful tool it controls every part of your body. Your legs don't just decide to move unless the brain sends a signal. If you master your thoughts, you can push yourself to the limit. During training I've had to walk for miles on end,through the rivers, over mountains, during tempestuos weathers . When I joined the force I wasn't particularly fit, took a jog once in a while but I wasn't ready for  the extremeness of it all. I've walked till I felt blisters forming on the soles of my feet,till I couldn't feel my whole body and all the while my mind kept me going. The thought of reaching the destination and the seed has already been planted, you're already there. 

Lesson 3: Respect Time

Time wasted can never be regained. Every second counts, use it wisely.

Lesson 4: There is so much to be grateful for

For the first time in a long time I had to go back to basics. It was during what we call the Field phase, we had to pitch up our own tent to sleep in every night and break it down before dawn as if it was never there. We had limited water and food , no electricity and no cellphones. I used to think I'd never survive without all those things but I was able to make the most of what I had. 

Lesson 5: Take pride in yourself 

The first thing you are taught is how to dress, how to iron your uniform and tie your boots. It's important to look presentable at all times. We live in a world where you are unfortunately judged by the way you look. How would you like others to perceive you? First impressions last. Your appearance can determine if you get that dream job or if you seal that deal with an investor. Look good, walk tall, and always keep your chin up.