What is the single biggest element you are exposed to when you enter into the military? Structure...It's not something that comes natural or is part of most people's lives. As you move through basic training, specialty training and into various duty assignments you realize how important it is to have structure. No matter what your background was you come to assimilate to relying on the benefits of having a structure. The military has the accountability factor that is not necessarily part of civilian life, so for those who aren't necessarily prone to or drawn to structure this becomes part of their life due to the existence of accountability. As military members look to transition from the military the lack of structure or appearance of lack of structure that will exist once they transition can be daunting to most. Some may be able to exist or thrive without much structure but it certainly is a tool to for success. Without structure we can take on too many tasks and responsibilities leading to an unsatisfying life. So how do we create a structure that works for us as an individual when we are used to having a structure that was based on a Team approach?
Your personal structure for success should have the same common aspects that exist in an organizational structure that you operate within for the military:
- Have a vision with goals that constitute your plan for where you are headed. This will be your framework for operating. This can be adjusted at any time and should be a living document but without one you will not have the bounds within to operate.
- Create and have consistent processes and procedures for getting things done in your life, whether it's personal or professional. These processes and procedures will provide you the assurance of how long it will take to accomplish particular tasks for scheduling purposes and that you have a consistent way to feel confident that you will be able to accomplish what you need to.
- Surround yourself with those that will support and lift you to the next level on a regular basis. These should be people who will push you to be your best but are also willing to pick you up when you stumble, fall or outright fail.
- Find ways to make sure you and the people that you surround yourself with can hold you accountable to stay on track and be successful. Not allowing yourself to get so far off track that you feel lost or that you are not achieving what you planned.
As mentioned everyone will have their preferred level of structure. For some the more structure they can build into their life the better they are. For others they only require a basic amount of structure to keep themselves focused and confident. As well you may find that you can fluctuate your level of structure depending on what is going on to make yourself successful. Don't feel there is a "right answer" when it comes to the type or amount of structure. Allow yourself the ability to determine what is right for you regardless of what others are doing or thinking.
Landmark Life Coaching's Mission is to honorably and respectfully serve courageous groundbreakers and transitioning veterans to persevere in defining and executing their future by providing an atmosphere of comradery and trust that honors their dedication and commitment. This will empower our clients to feel whole, honored, respected and fulfilled in defining and living their life purpose.
Founder/Coach/Speaker/Writer
Dwayne.paro@landmarklifecoaching.com