SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member 1756395 <div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>By no means am I the perfect soldier, but I have always strived to be the best. At my last unit i achieved so many great things... Air Assault and EFMB just to name a few. Now I am stationed at a hospital, the ER to be specific. My immediate COC and the Nuses I work with will say that Im one of the best Medics in the department. I pride myself on that. Now it is time that I move up in the ranks. I earned my promotable status and was given a slot to BLC. The morning of the first day of class, I over slept and lost my slot. HUGE mistake, that set me back 6 months. My 1SG wasnt going to give me another shot for 6 months. During that time I fought for a slot. I submitted a packet every chance I got. Part of that packet was a record APFT, which I took 4 records in the span of 6 months. Being in the ER I do PT on my own, and never had an issues passing. My finally convinced my 1SG that ibdeserved another slot at BLC, and submitted a complete packet to attend. During my BLC counseling I was told that I need to improve my PT, and I agreed, also I was told that there was a possibikity that I would have to retake the PT test because the test that we took for BLC may have been putside the 30 days needed to complete the packet. So rather than wait for further instructions, I started to PT very hard. I was informed the day before that I had to retake the PT test for BLC, and I failed. My form was crap, and I could not perform to standard. I still have not had my official counseling form my 1SG, but my ERB already reflects several flags, and I am sure I am going to lose my P status. I have 5 years in, and want to make the army a career, but this year has been one set back after another. I just would really like some advice on how to stay motivated theough all of this. I love the army and everything that it has done to improve my life. Thank you in advance. 2016-07-28 00:01:57 -0400 SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member 1756395

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>By no means am I the perfect soldier, but I have always strived to be the best. At my last unit i achieved so many great things... Air Assault and EFMB just to name a few. Now I am stationed at a hospital, the ER to be specific. My immediate COC and the Nuses I work with will say that Im one of the best Medics in the department. I pride myself on that. Now it is time that I move up in the ranks. I earned my promotable status and was given a slot to BLC. The morning of the first day of class, I over slept and lost my slot. HUGE mistake, that set me back 6 months. My 1SG wasnt going to give me another shot for 6 months. During that time I fought for a slot. I submitted a packet every chance I got. Part of that packet was a record APFT, which I took 4 records in the span of 6 months. Being in the ER I do PT on my own, and never had an issues passing. My finally convinced my 1SG that ibdeserved another slot at BLC, and submitted a complete packet to attend. During my BLC counseling I was told that I need to improve my PT, and I agreed, also I was told that there was a possibikity that I would have to retake the PT test because the test that we took for BLC may have been putside the 30 days needed to complete the packet. So rather than wait for further instructions, I started to PT very hard. I was informed the day before that I had to retake the PT test for BLC, and I failed. My form was crap, and I could not perform to standard. I still have not had my official counseling form my 1SG, but my ERB already reflects several flags, and I am sure I am going to lose my P status. I have 5 years in, and want to make the army a career, but this year has been one set back after another. I just would really like some advice on how to stay motivated theough all of this. I love the army and everything that it has done to improve my life. Thank you in advance.

2016-07-28 00:01:57 -0400 2016-07-28 00:01:57 -0400 SN Greg Wright 1756423

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Come on, man. There's CSM's out there with 3, 4 NJPs to their names. Nothing you've described approaches that level. You just have to suck it up, decide that you're going to be the best Soldier that you can be for yourself first, your buddies secondly, and for rank and accolades a distant, distant 3rd. If you do that, I guarantee you the rank and accolades will come. Here's the very-simple key to it: decide that it will be so. If you do make that decision, 20, 25 years from now when you retire after a long and fruitful career, remember the moment that you DID make that decision. Because it will have gotten you there.

2016-07-28 00:30:50 -0400 2016-07-28 00:30:50 -0400 SGT William Martinez 1756424

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Ok brother,most of the time we need to erased everything and start from scratch...put it like this,strive to get better...give yourself a brake and start PT with a purpose,if everyone tell you,that's you're a good soldier,get better so the COC put you for anything without you asking them for a slot...your time will come...it will come sooner if you get better,plan ahead,exercise,go to sleep at a certain time and get up early...think than others who gave their everything will give anything to be here and have another opportunity in this life...best of luck and strive for excellence!

2016-07-28 00:30:54 -0400 2016-07-28 00:30:54 -0400 Capt Daniel Goodman 1756665

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I'm trying to think of how to answer you in a way that would do the most possible good. I've been out over three decades now, and miss it virtually every day, in a fashion and to an extent that is extremely difficult for me to articulate. I've been told on here many times, by many on here, that I can be long winded, exceptionally so, and have no desire to be so in this instance. What you said made me reflect considerably on all I'd gone through, a great deal in fact. There are many suggestions I could possibly give you that immediately occur to me, however, in this instance, in genuinely think I should ask you for more info, so far as you might care to say, so I might possibly give you what advice I can, so far as possible. So, to start: if you can, take the time on here, and elaborate some more, so far as you can. Are you in school at all part time? Do you take coursework either on your installation, or off of it at all? If so, what major, and with what goal or goals? Are you trying for a degree, and, if so, which, and what level? Assocs? Bach? Next, what are your hobbies? What interests you? What aside from your work genuinely motivates you? Do you want to go further in any clinical field? Would you prefer to change fields, perhaps? If so, to which, and for what motivating reason or reasons? Next, what physical activity or activities are you engaged in outside of normal PT? Do you do any martial arts, perhaps? Do any of them genuinely interest you? For example, I've been doing aikido off and on for about 20 yrs now, and also just started getting involved with iaido, as well. You might care to look at those, they're extremely complex, both of them, as well as exceptionally aerobically fatiguing. Next, biking, I've always loved it, I'd very strongly recommend it, to vary the theme, physically, as well. Look up, for aikido, the US aikido federation, the acronym is USAF, I'm obv not speaking of the air force, of course. There's a group on here for it, I've seen it, try looking at it. Go on YouTube and look up both aikido as well as iaido. The US aikido federation has dojos virtually all over the US, and around the world, there's also the Birankai aikido group as well. Iaido is different, it's a precision form of Japanese swordsmanship, that actually takes considerable patience to master, I only just started that, using the wooden swords for now. If aikido or iaido aren't to your taste, find one of the others, whichever one interests you, kendo, karate, tae kwan do, jujitsu, judo, whichever one you please, MMA, even, I've seen YouTube videos about the army combatives program, the USMC MCMAP, all of the various other athletic possibilities the svcs offer if you want to take advantage of them, as possible sources of motivation. I'm going to send this as the tablet I'm using tends to be rather temperamental and I don't want to lose what I've typed this far, I'll try to send more after this, as well, if you like. Digest this first, and tell me if you'd care to hear more. I obv don't want to overwhelm you, as I've been told I often tend to do on here, albeit unintentionally, of course. So, give me feedback, if I'm overwhelming you, tell me. If you'd prefer to meet hear anymore, tell me that as well. If you'd prefer I change focus somewhat, tell me in which direction, and I'll try to change as you'd prefer. If you'd want to give me more detail, I only ask that you just please try to be as highly detailed and specific as possible, I often see on here with others who ask such questions as yours, that, frequently, I'd be eager to know more, to be able to suggest p more, that's all I'm trying to say. So, the more info you think you can give, the more I and others on here might possibly be able to suggest, of course. I hope that helps at least somewhat, I'd be most eager to hear more, whenever might possibly be convenient, many thanks.

2016-07-28 05:53:11 -0400 2016-07-28 05:53:11 -0400 Capt Daniel Goodman 1756667

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Sorry for the typos, I meant, of course, if you'd prefer to hear more, I'd be glad to send more, if not, please just of course let !e know that as well, by all means. This tablet I'm afraid freq tends to alter what I type, and I just as often don't catch the errors before I send, unfortunately, many thanks.

2016-07-28 05:55:12 -0400 2016-07-28 05:55:12 -0400 Capt Daniel Goodman 1756670

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>One last thought I'd offer: Many times while I was in I faced precisely the same question you asked. More often, perhaps, than I myself realized at the time. Very often, when one is in, one can often lose one's sense of direction and or purpose, despite one's very best efforts, that much I do in fact know to be true, I assure you. I only thought to mention that, as, principally, that was why what you'd asked especially interested me to try to send you an answer, honest. Believe me, I've faced precisely that very same question many times, both while I was in, and long after I'd gotten out, as well. I do have other thoughts I could offer, I think, however, as I'd said, knowing more of your motivations and interests would just help me focus what I might suggest more coherently, that's the only reason I asked, so, I'll wait while you digest all I've said, before sending more, I'd be !most eager for your feedback, many thanks.

2016-07-28 06:03:57 -0400 2016-07-28 06:03:57 -0400 CSM Michael J. Uhlig 1756719

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>First of all, I respect that you have self identified the challenges you face, that is a huge step in the right direction. Now, if you really do love being part of this great organization, and want to be a Leader then it is time to get rid of the excuses and start living the Creed of the Non Commissioned Officer.<br /><br />You will be evaluated (and recommended for continued service) based on your deeds, not words. Ruck up, quit allowing yourself to settle for mediocrity in performance. You know your weaknesses.<br /><br />You might find it helpful to find someone close to your location to emulate, someone that you can trust and can use as a role model, that would be a Mentor for you. Get a Mentor, and get your shit together.....your time is very limited - if you do not get yourself fixed, you will be one the guys talking about &quot;back when I was a Soldier.....or......here&#39;s how I was screwed when I was in the Army&quot;.<br /><br />Aint none of us perfect, I want you to show me how resilient you are and would like an update of when you are getting promoted or getting out.......time to act while you have a vote in the matter.

2016-07-28 06:48:36 -0400 2016-07-28 06:48:36 -0400 SSG Leo Bell 1756920

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Just keep your head up and doing the best job you can. We all have set backs and it's just a test to see how much you really want it. Keep going and push through. You will make it to BLC and will pass with fling colors. They should of told you about the up coming PT test. We all know you don't work out two to three days before a test. That was a mistake in there behalf.

2016-07-28 10:20:21 -0400 2016-07-28 10:20:21 -0400 Lt Col Jim Coe 1756983

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>A couple of ideas from an Air Force guy who knows almost nothing about the Army:<br /><br />You said you PT on you own. This may not be working for you as well as it might. Is there a unit on the installation that would allow you to PT with them when your work schedule allows? Your First Sergent may be able to help you with this. It's probably outside of Army tradition, but might work for you.<br /><br />Are martial arts classes offered through your installation physical fitness or recreation center? Martial arts, when taught properly, teach discipline, physical fitness, and the fighting skills related to that discipline. And it can be fun! Might help your approach to fitness and life.

2016-07-28 10:46:01 -0400 2016-07-28 10:46:01 -0400 SFC J Fullerton 1757069

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>"I love the army and everything that it has done to improve my life." That is your motivation right there. Now you just need to figure out how to apply it. Starts with self discipline. There are many definitions of self discipline, the best one being simply forcing yourself to do what you know is right. Oversleeping on day one of an NCOES school is not a mistake, it is a lack of self discipline. At that moment, the most important thing in your life should have been BLC. Coulda, woulda, shoulda, not going to beat you up over that. Its how you move forward now. Think of the most professional NCO you know. He or she didn't get where they are at without self discipline. Emulate that NCO in all you do and you will see it come together.

2016-07-28 11:32:34 -0400 2016-07-28 11:32:34 -0400 2LT Private RallyPoint Member 1757643

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Look around when you get home. I mean REALLY look. Do you like the things you have? Do you like what you made for yourself? Do you wish you did better at something or made different choices? Now think about how you act when you're tired, busy, overwhelmed. You get exactly what you put into the world around you. Some people start with more, some people start with less. As time goes on, that beginning disappears and your life becomes whatever your DAILY decisions made it.<br /><br />Yah it sucks that you have to work hard and be tired and start at the bottom of some hierarchy. You know what sucks more? You hit on it... It sucks more to look back and realize you pissed away great opportunities and things you love because you couldn't stomach your own self control.<br /><br />Think of the day in terms of meals. Break it down in terms of what goals you have before each meal of the day. Eat at the same time each day and accomplish more and better goals before each meal. Write them down each night before you go to bed and analyze how you did on the ones from the previous day. I started doing that when my parents told me they weren't paying for a car or college for that matter when I turned 16. 1 business, 1 bachelors degree, 1 house, 1 fiance, working on my MD degree, and I still do this. I just turned 23. Good luck. It's up to you friend.

2016-07-28 14:59:09 -0400 2016-07-28 14:59:09 -0400 SPC Thomas Lema 1757937

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Nothing worthwhile comes easy! Just stay the course,you will reach your goals!

2016-07-28 16:31:29 -0400 2016-07-28 16:31:29 -0400 SGM Private RallyPoint Member 1758014

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Setbacks are part of being human. There isn't anyone wearing this uniform that hasn't faced some kind of setback, mistake, or series of mistakes. All of us have been there, some less severe and others more severe. You have reached the first step in realizing you have a problem.<br /><br />Sit down and write down the issues - oversleeping is a pain and it happens but it can happen at the worst time. Find out how to keep it from happening again - like 2 alarms. Once you do that that is one issue fixed. Now get after PT, come up with a good plan on how to get back to proper form and rep count. Once you identify it and develop a plan find out how long it will take to reach that end state (probably two months maybe more). Put everything on paper, your routine, plan, increased rep counts, diagnostic APFTs, and anything else you feel that is needed. Once you have that plan all written out sit down with your leadership then your 1SG. You know the problem so find the solution, don't wait for your leadership to tell you the solution. Become part of the solution and you show your chain of command that you are committed to getting better.<br /><br />When you talk to them ask what is the acceptable timeframe for going back to BLC. Once you meet all of those goals you need to get in there and get it done. Being 5 years in you are behind the power curve when it comes to your peers, so you will not be able to sit back and wait for the next board or opportunity. You need to prove yourself, attack the next promotion board and work on SSG so you can get back onto the same playing field the rest of your peers are on.<br /><br />It won't be easy but if we wanted easy we wouldn't be in the military. Get after it and hold your head up high. We've all fallen down, you just have to decide to get back up and fight for it!

2016-07-28 16:56:15 -0400 2016-07-28 16:56:15 -0400 SPC Private RallyPoint Member 1758532

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Best way? Keep it up brother. Don't take crap from anyone. Continue to be the best soldier you can! Life happens. It's not an excuse but it's true. We have good days and bad days. Push that negativity out and ruck on!

2016-07-28 19:57:15 -0400 2016-07-28 19:57:15 -0400 SPC Private RallyPoint Member 1758582

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You are going to face many many challenges and set backs in your army career in the infantry the call it "embrace the suck" and it seems like right now hats what you are in... Don't let these minor set backs cause they are minor stop you from doing nothing what you want and what you love! I got an article 15 was flagged not promotable extra duty the whole nine yards I went from being the private that my squad leader and team leader depended on over senior SPC to the bottom of the barrel and I just sucked it up and tried harder now I'm back to the level I was before and PCSing to a new duty station but I just had to stay focused and keep in mind this isn't going to last forever your army career is in your hands and your hands only stay focused motivated and keep your head up on the pt note just practice your push ups do 100 of each event a night before you rest doesn't have to be all at once but eventually work your way up to getting about 65-75 at once having trouble with your run do sprints and I find that rucks help me out a lot doing things with weight while walking and running just keep your head up if this is what you want then go get it!

2016-07-28 20:25:28 -0400 2016-07-28 20:25:28 -0400 Sgt Private RallyPoint Member 1758965

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="585243" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/585243-68w-healthcare-specialist-combat-medic-c-co-tripler-amc-tamc">SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member</a> After I was discharged, I was fortunate to land a good paying chemical plant operator job, while I also went to school full time. I overslept and was late for work after having worked at the plant for two months. I was counseled and told that I was an outstanding operator, but not to be late again. I started setting three alarm clocks to wake up, and was not late again. There will be setbacks and challenges that you will need to overcome. You want to stay in the Army, so that should be your motivation to excel. Work on your weaknesses, have a great attitude, and do the best job that you can every day.

2016-07-28 22:51:16 -0400 2016-07-28 22:51:16 -0400 SPC Private RallyPoint Member 1759063

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The best way i stay motivated is to surround myself around what i want to be. NCOs of all ranks and different jobs. Everyone needs someone to vent to whether you feel comfortable with your peers, or your wife or maybe your first sergeant. You can't dwell on not preforming well. No one is perfect. Fix your flags one by one and thank your support system as you get better. This a time for you to stop being selfish and only thinking about yourself because that sounds like why you frustrated. Sit back and see how much people rely on you when youre not on top. There youll find your motivation. Good luck and tell us how it goes. But seriously take this break and breathe!

2016-07-28 23:30:59 -0400 2016-07-28 23:30:59 -0400 SPC Terry Martin 1759882

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>WOW, Hang in there Brother! BUT, and not that it's easy, what's that saying? "The measure of man is not how many times one gets knocked down, it's how quickly they get up!" Staying unmotivated only tells them "See, told you he wasn't qualified!" Sometimes, you just have to let that be your motivation and blow their minds! Might be a small explosion though! ;-)

2016-07-29 10:39:40 -0400 2016-07-29 10:39:40 -0400 SPC Ray Orvin 1762644

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Get out go work in a civilian Er and go to nursing school like I did. You are at a tight bottle neck in your career; and at this point they are looking hard at every mistake a soldier makes. Joes can't make a mistake s any more. The army wants perfect soldiers these days until the republicans can put more money back into defense; your screwed!

2016-07-30 10:01:22 -0400 2016-07-30 10:01:22 -0400 SPC Private RallyPoint Member 1762979

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>This may sound redudant; but hunt the good stuff. Flags aren't good- we both know that. But bouncing back from things like that can sometimes mean more respect. It means that you cared about it, and you fixed that shit, and you kept moving. <br />Motivate yourself for other soldiers. Lead by example. Show them. Let them see you push yourself, let them see you strive, let them see you succeed. This extra PT will help you become more physically fit. Learn from the poor form. <br />Sometimes it's hard to find motivation but I promise you, you can find it. Even if it's false motivation. But if you love the Army like you say you do- you'll find a way.

2016-07-30 13:09:58 -0400 2016-07-30 13:09:58 -0400 SPC Jimmy Bowling 1770284

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>So the people in your unit think you a great soldier and you've achieved many outstanding goals that you have set for yourself. But dude you've been in five years and haven't learned that sleeping in and missing duty is not a huge No-Go, you need to grow up a little if the Army is what you truly love and believe or hope you have a future in! You were lucky that you did not get anything more than the 1SG holding you back for 6 months! It could of been an AR-15 with loss of rank and pay. Trust me I've seen some really hardcore 1SG's that would have been only to happy to do that! <br /><br />You seem to be a good soldier which is why they were on your side and helped you get back on track. <br /><br />That should be a little motivation there by itself. Now as far as your PT goes. You've be doing it on your own it seems like for a long time good for you, most people would not even try that! Go to the gym if you have one on post and check to see if their are any groups training that you may be able to join. Your Unit may have one just for PT Programs! Every post I was stationed at had these programs set up. If you can't find one there look off post at local gyms and tell them what areas you need to work in and they will normally help you out. I was kind of in your shoes during my final two years of service. My job kept me locked in a vault 24 on 12 off 7 days a week so PT was something we never saw. I was SP4 (P) with 9 years in and finally got out for my family! I absolutely loved the Army and wished that I had remained in! If you are single and truly believe that the life is one that you absolutely love. Then you just need a few small changes and you will become an asset to your Unit, the other NCO's, your soldiers and the Army! I wish you all the luck in the world in all you strive for as a Soldier! SPC Jimmy Bowling (Vet.)

2016-08-02 04:10:07 -0400 2016-08-02 04:10:07 -0400 CPL Jessica Martinez 1786289

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>remember that you learn more from failures than success and make a list of everything you need to fix and improve to get to where you want

2016-08-07 13:56:33 -0400 2016-08-07 13:56:33 -0400 SPC Private RallyPoint Member 1787163

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>They can't flag you by regulation if you have no been counselwd on failing your PT test. Also, if it was not a record APFT they are not authorized to flag you if it was just a diagnostic. Stay positive and keep working on improving you physical fitness on your own time. Do more pushups, pullups, decline situps to help increase your pushups and situp numbers. Do that 2-3 weeks out from your PT test if possible and you will be surprised by how much you would improve. Also not saying you don't eat healthy, but reducing soda and limiting high fatty foods for just 2 weeks will help you lose weight as well. Show them thT you can pass a record APFT and then put in a new BLC packet with your BN S3. If your unit still denies you go to IG about it with your NCO. Make sure you have documwnted proof about your situation.

2016-08-07 23:22:42 -0400 2016-08-07 23:22:42 -0400 SPC Gerald Jackson 1811370

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You sound like you got a good head on your shoulders. You are honest with yourself which a lot of people don't possess that quality. When you make it to NCO you will be an awesome leader I think.

2016-08-16 18:23:16 -0400 2016-08-16 18:23:16 -0400 SPC Jimmy Bowling 1866381

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>SPC (Anonymous), I just thought that I would write and check up on your status. How are things going for you in the military. Have you been able to find you a group or mentor to hep you out with your PT program? It has been a while and I have not seen any updates to your post and was on RallyPoint and thought about this post. I hope that everything has improved with your situation and wish you the best and continued luck while in service.

2016-09-06 02:23:17 -0400 2016-09-06 02:23:17 -0400 SPC Private RallyPoint Member 2306334

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>You dont. Youre doomed. Cry for the big army

2017-02-02 12:14:13 -0500 2017-02-02 12:14:13 -0500 SMSgt Billy Cesarano 6121278

<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I can tell you the first thing is stop whining, and man up. You only go half-way to own the place you are in and if you know what needs to be done, do it. If your 2 mile-run is weak practice running 4 miles. The PT test should always be easier than your training for it is. That&#39;s how you never get a fail. Some MOS&#39;s are not designed for career length duty. That doesn&#39;t mean you need to get out though. I have retired after 31 yrs, 5 MOS&#39;s and 3 AFSC&#39;s. My body is broken but I stayed and shifted career fields and branches of service to accommodate my deteriorating physical limits to stay a bit longer. That also meant accepting a life long environment of continuous learning. I understand you are a medic and an NCO. You need to understand real fast, there are soldiers that may one day depend on you to save their lives and you must be fully prepared physically and mentally to do so. You are also in a leadership position and must set the example.

2020-07-20 20:47:18 -0400 2020-07-20 20:47:18 -0400 2016-07-28 00:01:57 -0400