As a brand-new Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, I was full of energy, ambition, and determination to lead Soldiers and make a difference. But looking back on my military career, there’s one thing I wish I had done sooner: documenting and sharing my journey.

It might seem simple, but capturing and reflecting on your experiences is a powerful tool for personal growth and for inspiring others. Sharing those experiences can also help address one of the most pressing issues facing the military today—recruitment.

The Power of Documenting Your Journey

When I was in the Army, I served in a variety of roles, including leading a basic training company where we transformed civilians into soldiers. I listened to their stories and reasons for joining, which typically boiled down to three things:

1. A Sense of Purpose and Belonging – Many joined to be part of a team united by service and shared values.

2. A Better Life for Their Families – Some sought stability, benefits, and opportunities to provide for loved ones.

3. Personal Development – Others saw the military as a path to growth, education, and discovering their potential.

At the time, I didn’t fully realize the significance of these reasons. I didn’t think to document my thoughts as a new officer or reflect on the impact of my leadership. Moments like my first day as a platoon leader, my first promotion, or the challenges of leading soldiers through difficult times would have been valuable insights to share—not just for my own growth, but for others considering the military as a career.

Why It Matters

Documenting and sharing your military journey serves a dual purpose.

1. Connecting with the Civilian World – There’s often a gap in understanding between service members and civilians. Sharing authentic stories about leadership, camaraderie, and the realities of military life can bridge that gap. It allows potential recruits to see the military as more than just a job—it’s a chance to grow, serve, and find purpose.

2. Changing the Narrative – Recruitment efforts often rely on polished marketing campaigns. While effective, they can’t replace genuine, firsthand accounts. People relate to experiences, not just statistics. By sharing our stories, we show the diversity, challenges, and rewards of military service, making it more relatable and inspiring.

Lessons Learned

I wish I had taken the time to:

• Journal Regularly – Reflecting on daily experiences, both positive and challenging, is a great way to gain clarity and track personal growth.

• Post Insights Online – Platforms like LinkedIn or social media are powerful tools for connecting with others and sharing the realities of service.

• Encourage Others to Share – Imagine the impact if every service member documented their journey. The collective voices of soldiers, airmen, sailors, and marines could reshape how the public views military service.

I’ve worked alongside Soldiers who were passionate, dedicated, and talented, and I’ve also seen the struggles they faced. Leadership in the military is not always glamorous. There are tough days, long nights, and moments of heartbreak. But there’s also immense pride and fulfillment in leading others, serving your country, and being part of something bigger than yourself.

A Call to Action

For new recruits, officers, and anyone currently serving, I encourage you to:

1. Document Your Journey – Whether through journaling, blogging, or creating videos, capture your experiences.

2. Share Your Story – Use social media responsibly to highlight your growth, challenges, and successes.

3. Inspire Change – Be a change agent for the military’s recruitment efforts by showing what service truly means.

Ultimately, every service member will one day hang up their uniform. What will remain is the legacy of their service, the lessons they’ve learned, and the lives they’ve impacted. By documenting and sharing our journeys, we leave a lasting mark on the military and inspire future generations to serve.

Final Thoughts

It’s never too late to start sharing your story. The military is a reflection of America—diverse, resilient, and full of potential. By showcasing this through our own experiences, we not only support recruitment efforts but also honor the legacy of service that binds us all together.

So, grab a pen, start a blog, or hit record. Someone out there is looking for inspiration—and your story might be exactly what they need to hear.