I have served 16 years in the Army now. I have lots of experience gained though courses, exercises, operations and life. But, there is always something new. Something I've never done before. A new system, weapon, theory or problem. You can always learn something new, or improve something old. Don't be afraid to ask for help and always seek feed back. But remember feedback will not always be positive.

The Army provides a whole host of challenges at every level, but it also provides you with the tools to rise to those challenges, and if you so choose, surpass them. The training that the Army provides allows you to find your true and best self, to push yourself and test yourself - work out what you want to achieve, then use your new found skills to achieve even more!

All doctors at some point will have a difficult time, and many will have considered leaving medicine or the NHS. That might be why you are reading this! I am very glad that I decided to find a different way to continue my career, and would recommend that anyone having doubts has a look to see what else is available. If you love adventure and a bit of a challenge, the Army is an excellent opportunity. You will need to take 3 years out between FY2 and starting specialty training, but most Army doctors will tell you this is the most enjoyable 3 years of your career! After those 3 years, you will likely have a great looking CV and a much clearer idea of what you want to specialise in. The majority of doctors will stay employed by the Army during the training years, although some may choose to return to the NHS to train, this is usually if they decide to do a specialty that the Army doesn't provide (eg Paediatrics). It has been an excellent career change for me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone.