3 Most Valuable Lessons in BMT

The first most valuable lesson I have learnt in BMT is leadership - how to lead a group of men, where some may be hard-headed. I was given a chance to be the platoon IC and during my short stint as an IC, I have learnt that to lead is easy, but to lead effectively is a challenging task. I have learnt that as a leader, you have to be an exemplary role model, and that means doing things consistent to your principles and values. It also means taking up more responsibilities and not an opportunity to slacken off. Leadership becomes challenging when people are at their worst ends, and do not cooperate with you, and that is when you need to convey your messages and intentions effectively and empathise with the lot. Leading is also not just getting things done, but also motivating men under you to push themselves to the best of their abilities, and not give up in times of hardship. In BMT, we are all guys and in this environment, people may try to overpower one another to rise as an alpha. Thus I have learnt that it is important to earn the respect of your men before you are able to lead them effectively. It is also essential that we do our best to know our stuffs before men can  trust themselves to listen to us.

The second most valuable lesson that BMT has taught me is discipline. BMT is regimented and it is expected of us to maintain a high level of militiary disciple. Disobeying them will mean having to deal with the ramifications. Just as in the outside world, discipline is not easy to maintain as we tend to procrastinate and derail. BMT has taught me that we have to get things done even though we don't feel like it. I have learnt that discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most. Through little things like hand-washing our own clothes and ensuring high standards and cleanliness of our bunk, I have learnt to exercise self-discipline, which will translate to a better me in the outside world in dealing with any kind of responsibilities and getting down to them.

The thrid most valuable lesson I have learnt is the importance of giving. The cameraderie and brotherhood I have found in BMT have taught what selflessness is as I saw how my band of brothers sacrifice for each other. In times of need, we have to be there for each other, and encourage one another. It is indeed easy to slacken off and not bother, but it is important to always bear in mind that there are people around who needs you and your best.