Family help: Why am I so nervous about joining the military? - Help.com

Maybe you’re having a premonition that Canada will join in the “Coalition of the Willing.” I certainly hope not.

Human nature… but I think this is a good decision… Excellent experiences willovertake you!!!

I don’t know much about the Canadian military sadly. It is a shame that so many Americans know so little about their sister country. I too am joining up here in the US, but the Coast Guard is primarily non-combatant.

As for the nerves, they are going to be there. This is one of the most dangerous and structured careers there is. On the same note I look at it as one of the best choices I will ever make. Again, I don’t know much about Canadian Forces, but US military have a slew of benefits and opportunities that I can’t get so readily from another job. I do not have higher education behind me and I don’t know what I would go to school for anyway. The military can help me get that and maybe for free. If this is similar with Canadian Forces, think about your opportunities.

Your family and social environment are going to change. That I cannot help out much with. I am single and have no children. My only advice is to talk everything over with your wife and children.. make traditions and attempts to make sure they know how much you value them. In worst case senario, when you are away for so long, they will miss you, but know that you love and cherish them.

Being nervous is normal being apprehensive I think is where you should worry. If this is what you want then, congratulations and good luck. :)

The military isn’t so bad, or hard, or anything else. As long as you can deal with some serious BS from time to time. I’ve been in the Marines for 5 years now currently doing diplomatic security in Israel/Palestine. I say just do it.

Nothing wrong with being nervous. I was in the US Navy for four years during the First Gulf War. Joining the Military is not a light decision. Especially now with the need of manpower in Iraq. Everyone knows Ulitmately the militarys purpose is war. We hear the results of it everyday. However it is those that choose to serve that make it possible for those who can or wont to not need to. The miliary is not all bad. I had a great time. I saw many contries around the Pacific Rim. I met many friendly people in all them countries. There is so much opportunity to learn new things if one is willing to take advantatge of them. Also there is all the others that are with you when you go. There are the ones who went before, the ones you are with when you are there and the ones who look up to you that come after. Its not like you will be alone. You will be among friends. For me it was a honor to serve when i did. I would do it again if i could.