Hey geeks, read on for a contest and rules, but first a story.
After about 4-5 years of service in the US Army, in I was at a cross-roads, having completed my service obligation but not sure I wanted to stay in the Army. Should I stick it out for a few more years then get out? Should I shoot for a full 20+ service and earn a pension? Should I get out soon and seek my fortune as a private citizen? Up to that point, I had enjoyed success in my career, 2 years as a platoon leader, 15 months of which were in Iraq, and some time as a staff officer which was much less challenging. I had solid experiences, which would make me competitive as a high-performer who excelled in stressful, demanding situations. But at the same time, I was still a young man, unsure if my success was due to luck, circumstance, or if it was actually earned, and unsure if I enjoyed being in the military at all, when considering the balance of good things and bad things about military service.
Much of this contemplation and deliberation took place during my second Iraq deployment. I was a staff officer, building slides, briefing senior officers, work which was tedious and repetitive. My boss and mentor, a senior officer who was a god-fearing man with an almost ministerial approach to mentor-ship, would sit with myself and some friends to smoke cigars and chat in the evenings. It was towards the end of that deployment he gave me some of the best advice in my life. He recognized my strengths and weaknesses, and encouraged me to stay in the Army for a few more years. He advised me to pursue excellence as a staff officer, to demonstrate my competence and earn the right to a company command. Once I'd done that, then I should make a decision on a career. The steps and high performance required to earn the privilege of command would polish my rough spots and give me confidence in my abilities. But he said it was worth trying because even if I failed, I would be better off than if I'd never set command as a goal.
A successful company command is the pinnacle of a junior officer's career, and a necessary step to advancement both in rank and responsibility. Long story short, I took his advice, and 3 years later, I earned the right to command. I deployed a team of 104 men and women to Afghanistan for 10 months, brought every one back and led for another 8 months back in the US. It was a fantastic experience and worth every moment of the toil necessary to get there. Ultimately I did decide to leave the Army, as my heart was not in it for a career, but my achievements prior to and while a commander launched me to a great career as a private citizen. It was great advice and I always think back on it with gratitude.
To participate in this contest, tell a story of the best piece of advice you ever received, whether your followed it or not. A picture of words from Facebook doesn't count, this isn't about pithy expressions and idioms, its about people who helped make a difference in your life with good sincere advice. The advice could be about anything, a recommendation on a purchase, a career move, a relationship, or relocation. The winner, who I will pick randomly whenever I wake up on Saturday, 08 Sept 18, will receive a 5er well worth their time. Take MY advice, you don't want to miss out on this 5er. The contest is open to Geeks in good standing who joined prior to today. If you live outside the US, you will be responsible for paying any/all associated taxes and duties.
"I've got one word for you, just one word: Plastics."