There is no one personality type that defines those who serve in the military. But there are several personality characteristics shared by many.

To be successful, service members must possess certain traits that allow them to manage living and working in stressful environments. These traits allow them to adapt to a structured, rule-bound, hierarchical way of life. If these traits are absent, adapting to military life can be difficult for some.

The military understands the importance of recruiting individuals with these particular characteristics; that ensures career longevity and mission success.

It's no coincidence that military recruiting commercials show soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines jetting or sailing off to exotic ports of call and distant and enchanted lands. The military understands that those who crave adventure are a good fit to wear the uniform. And the draw of living in Japan, Italy, Germany or other overseas locations is an attractive option for someone who grew up in Union Church, Mississippi, or Kalamazoo, Michigan.

A certain degree of patriotism also is necessary. Love for one's country is a strong force that prompts countless men and women to take risks the average person wouldn't consider. This value is often passed down through generations. Many service members had a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle who once served.

Another must for someone to succeed in the military is flexibility. If "Make sure to hydrate" is the most commonly heard phrase in the military, then No. 2 has to be "Adapt and overcome." Without the ability to adjust to ever-changing demands, one will either fail at important tasks or grow so frustrated that leaving the military is the only viable option.

Rigidity is a double-edged sword. It allows a person to more easily adapt to a highly structured way of life, but at times can conflict with the need to be flexible. The most successful troops are those who maintain a structured and organized approach to life, but know when a situation requires adaptability.

There are many ways to serve your town, state and country. Some people go into education or health care. Others join the military. The desire to serve others sets the stage for a successful military career. In fact, the best military leaders are those who put others before themselves.

Trying to fit the men and women of the military into a single personality category is impossible. The diversity of our armed forces is tremendous, and in large part, what makes it great. But recognizing those traits that do contribute to success in military service helps ensure we recruit and retain the best people.

Bret A. Moore, Psy.D., is a board-certified clinical psychologist who served two tours in Iraq. Email him at kevlarforthemind@militarytimes.com. This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to convey specific psychological or medical guidance.

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