I’ve got it in my head that I need to do 20 years to retire. I fear starting over or taking risks outside the military without a pension cushion.
I have spent a lot of my life envying the success of others. They always seem to be very happy or at least doing better than me. My brother is the most recent one.
This feeling of jealousy and, dare I say, mild depression has affected my personal life, too, as I have become very introverted and don’t like talking about myself or contributing much to conversations. I know this is a broad description, but any advice or guidance would be greatly appreciated. -- LOST IN THE EAST
DEAR LOST: The time has come to do some work on your self-esteem, my friend, and stop comparing yourself to others. What you are doing to yourself is a waste of time. You chose your career for intelligent reasons. Many people would like to be able to retire at 40 with a guaranteed income before deciding what other fields they would like to explore. You are well on your way to achieving the goal you set for yourself.
If you are in a position to schedule some sessions with a mental health professional away from where you are stationed, it could improve your relationships with others as well as yourself. Please consider it. No matter how financially well-off a person appears to be, there is always someone richer, but not necessarily happier.
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