Moving is tough, at any age. But for military children it’s just a way of life, an expectation that they will relocate every few years. And though growing up in an environment of constant change and temporarily absent parents is tumultuous for any child, it often prepares them for life in ways that most others aren’t privilege to until adulthood. Here are five solid reasons military children are more likely to find success as adults.
5. They’re super great at making friends.
Military brats know what it’s like to be the new kid. Every few years, they’ve had to pack up all their belongings, say goodbye to their friends, and start over again in a new state. But because of this, they’ve learned all the social tricks and can easily strike up conversations with those they’ve never met before. And since they remember how nerve-wracking that first day can be, they’re also usually the first to approach a new coworker and make them feel welcome.
4. They’re really clean and organized.
Military parents aren’t known for carelessness. If any kid is going to be on their hands and knees scrubbing their shower with a toothbrush, it’s most likely going to be a military kid. But all those years of getting yelled at for leaving a towel on their bedroom floor or not rinsing off a plate before putting it in the sink will pay off. These kids often grow up to be organized adults, always making sure their belongings, homes and workspaces are in tip top shape.
3. They’re true lovers of diversity.
They’ve seen so much of the United States, and probably lived abroad, too. Military kids often become adults who love to travel and meet new people. They’ve experienced so many different cultures as a child that diversity is natural to them. Their passion for celebrating differences in people will give them an edge over those who have lived in the same place their whole life. If anyone truly experiences America’s great “melting pot”, it’s the children of those who defend it.
2. They’re always prepared for change.
Everyone experiences changes they’re unprepared for, such as losing a job or a romantic relationship ending. And everyone reacts emotionally, but military children can bounce back more quickly. They’ve dealt with these unexpected changes their whole life, whether their parent is suddenly relocated or deployed. Expecting the unexpected is a skill they learned at a young age, and one that will assist them through the difficult times of their adulthood.
1. They’re as strong as their parents.
Military kids are raised by courageous, tough people. Because of this, they turn into adults who don’t run away from problems, but face them head on. They don’t back away from challenges or hardships, but seek to solve problems and help others. Looking up to a parent in a uniform, fighting to defend their life and the lives of others, instill strong ideals and values early on.
Adults who were raised in a military family have an edge over others, in higher education, in their career, and in personal relationships. Their unique childhoods may have been more difficult than some, but the benefits to their characters are invaluable in the world today.
