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Step 1
Make the most of your service record. The first 4 to 6 years are crucial in terms of laying the foundation for your future in the military. Put extra effort into volunteering within your command and out in the community. Strive to get all of your qualifications completed in a timely fashion. Focus on earning awards and commendations. Associate with appropriate social groups (i.e., those who don't get into trouble). Develop a professional reputation with superiors and your peers that shows you are punctual, dependable and responsible.
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Step 2
Continue to live in the barracks or onboard ship until you are fully ready to handle the responsibilities involved in living off-post. A large number of low-ranking up-and-comers in uniform secure expensive civilian housing before they can adequately handle the demands of paying rent and utilities on time. Once you have achieved enough rank, you'll be able to live comfortably in civilian quarters without the worry and burden of living expenses.
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Step 3
Be a casual dater. Nothing says you have to get tied down to the first available dating partner that comes around. By staying free, you enable yourself to focus more fully on your job and not on what "he" or "she" is expecting of you after working hours.
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Step 4
Maintain a rigid monthly budget, watch what you spend and learn how to save a little from each paycheck for emergencies. Refrain from using the Armed Forces Relief Agencies unless it is an absolute emergency. Any loans will have to be paid back on a monthly basis which can cause a strain on an E-4 and below budget. Even a plane ticket home for a death in the family can cause financial hardship if you aren't careful with your money.
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Step 5
Take advantage of all military education opportunities and benefits. Look into the military's Tuition Assistance Programs, where you can receive up to 100 percent reimbursement of college courses taken during off-duty hours. Find out if you are eligible for special scholarships, certain funds and programs. The Voluntary Education program is attached to every branch of the Armed Forces and offers many college benefits. Don't forget the Montgomery GI Bill. Remember, you may qualify for more than one education program/benefit. For more information on programs, visit the Educational Services office at your command.
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Step 6
Maintain military standards by staying fit, watching your weight and earning high EVALs. By consistently passing the PRT (Physical Readiness Training) and keeping within acceptable weight/body fat standards, you don't have to put yourself and your record at the mercy of command remedial programs. Additionally, if you earn high marks on evaluations, you manage to keep your record spotless and upwardly mobile for promotion. Minding military standards early in your career adds substantially to the "big picture" as you prepare to advance through the ranks.
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Step 7
Use contraception if you are sexually active. Nothing shoots a military career in the foot faster than having unplanned children or paying child support when you don't have the income to support such responsibilities. Single mothers in the military tend to struggle with the demands of the military and those attached to parenting more times than not. Male service members who find themselves facing fatherhood too early struggle as well. Using contraception 100 percent of the time may not prevent an unplanned pregnancy in all cases but it certainly reduces your chances.
