24 Months Later
Every male citizens of Singapore is required to perform National Service however, one’s experience might differ from the other. I enlisted in June 2020 and I wasn’t enthusiastic about it. I lived a very different life back in 2019 to 2020 than I do now. I was a freelance creative working odd hours while pursuing my career ambitions in Singapore’s media scene.
Upon entering National Service, I encountered some serious personal difficulties and the regimental environment in the military was also a challenge for me. It was out of my comfort zone but I do believe that I did tried my best to keep an open mind throughout the past 2 years.
After all, I had to go through with it.
I wasn’t really happy throughout the 2 years nor did I interact meaningfully with my peers. I had friends who enjoyed their National Service, however being overwhelmed with my own personal struggles, I did not feel the same resentment as them.
I am thankful for all the support that I received from my superiors in the service. They are the ones that encouraged me to seek for help. After seeking professional help for my personal issues, I come to understand important things in my life (the positive results of therapy). I am still working on those issues and being better every single day.
I lead a more quiet and mundane lifestyle right now while adhering to a somewhat fixed daily routine.
The Things I Learnt In National Service
National Service have taught me personal growth, adaptability, social skills and figuring out the right time to ask questions (I am still struggling with a few these but I am getting there).
I have a habit of asking “why” questions when it comes to different situations, I am always curious to understand the reasoning behind a specific action or request. To understand what I meant by asking “why” questions, you should read this article.
It’s kind of dumb but it was only a year later, when I understood why servicemen are taught to follow all orders without debating the order of a superior.
Going through National Service have certainly changed my life.
What I Wished I Knew
Other than understanding when is the appropriate time to ask questions. Here are some other things I wish I knew(or be consistent with) before I enlisted.
- Save Your Money
Although you may not be earning money prior to enlisting, you should start saving as soon as you receive your first allowance from the service. I regretted not saving more back when I was getting paid as a freelancer, you never know when you might need additional cash.
It’s one of the few reasons why I needed to crowdfund my upcoming trip to New York, read more about it here.
2. Keep Learning and Doing
Planning to pursue a degree? Keep learning during your free time or during the weekends?
Unsure of what you want to do after your National Service? Figure it out during the 2 years.
2 years can seem long, and your personal schedule may interfere with your long-term plan. Considering a timetable that segments learning and recreation might help you make the most out of your 2 years. It may also be the right time to pursue your passions on the side while following the guidelines given by the government.
While I am not a believer in traditional education pathways, I have heard from people that they regret starting too late or not researching key application dates.
Start planning your time wisely.
Conclusion
I will not miss the times I spent in the military, but we all have to play our part for the nation. I am ending my service in a few days and I will be spending my time exploring Web 3 and focusing on my career.
Everyone has a different view of National Service, all of these are my personal opinions. Feel free to leave a comment to start a discussion around National Service, or to add additional things that one should know before entering the service.
If you want to support me
I am crowdfunding my first solo trip to New York, US. If you are interested in supporting me, do read the article below and consider donating to my crowdfunding campaign —
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