
5 Lessons Learned From Over 60 Taiwanese Military Members Who Hold Chinese Permits
5 Lessons Learned From Over 60 Taiwanese Military Members Who Hold Chinese Permits

5 Lessons Learned From Over 60 Taiwanese Military Members Who Hold Chinese Permits
I was lucky enough to have a conversation with some of the Taiwanese soldiers who had recently returned from a training exercise in Sierra Leone. It was inspiring and thought-provoking, so I wanted to share it with you.
Here are five lessons I learned from them
1. Be prepared for anything.
A soldier shared that he felt well prepared when he left Taiwan but acknowledged that the actual experience differed significantly. He emphasized the importance of being adaptable and having a plan B because things don't always go as planned.
2. It's about the journey, not just the destination.
One officer mentioned feeling like they had accomplished their mission and completed the training, but it was also a life-changing journey that provided numerous opportunities to learn and grow personally and professionally. The experience of traveling to Africa and being immersed in a different culture was eye-opening.
3. Don't limit yourself with self-doubt.
A soldier emphasized not letting self-doubt hold you back from seizing new opportunities. They shared that even though they initially felt apprehensive about leaving their comfort zone, the rewards were worth it. The experience helped them grow personally and professionally beyond what they had imagined.
4. Focus on your strengths.
A soldier mentioned feeling unsure if he was ready for this challenge but knew he had the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully. He learned that focusing on his strengths rather than worrying about weaknesses allowed him to thrive in a new environment. The experience taught him how to leverage his skills effectively.
5. Embrace the discomfort.
One officer shared that they initially found the language barrier and cultural differences challenging but soon realized that it was an opportunity to learn from the community they were serving. Embracing the discomfort and seeking out opportunities for growth made their time in Africa richer and more meaningful.
In conclusion, these soldiers learned valuable lessons about being adaptable, seizing new opportunities, focusing on strengths, and embracing discomfort while serving in Sierra Leone. I hope their experiences inspire you to embrace new challenges, grow personally and professionally, and make a positive impact on the world.