Army life is almost an exact opposite of the life I used to live. In the beginning, I was happy-go-lucky person. I do things at the very last minute and am still able to pull it off. I live a slow-paced life, taking my own sweet time to get things done. I was living in my own world, away from any interference from anyone. No one bothered to reprimand me for anything. Lastly, I was ill-disciplined when it came to fitness. It would take a miracle to dislodge me from my comfortable home and run the neighbourhood.

Now, everything is different. I can't afford to take one step at a time. I have to plan ahead. Just like preparing my uniform beforehand, tidying my stuff in anticipation of a spot-check, running up and down in order to meet the time limit set by the sergeant and enduring the frequent and sudden outbursts by the sergeants and sirs. Everything in camp has already been planned for us. Discipline is of utmost importance during this period. But it's getting too disciplined for my liking.

I know that the training do me more good than harm. I will be able to shed off my excess fats as well as build up my muscles. But I still feel disheartened when I'm not improving as fast as I would like to. It's going to take a lot of effort for me to be back in shape again. Morale was at an all-time low during the first few days in camp. I have lost the art of motivation and humour. I didn't feel like cracking jokes or even talking inside. Seriously, I believe I have changed. Perhaps matured a little. I always hold the belief that maturity and humour cannot co-exist.

During my time out, I learnt to treasure every moment I have. I looked at things from a different angle. In the past, I usually glance around, but now I take a second look at things. Even small things fascinate me now. I feel like a just-rescued Robinson Crusoe. I enjoy talking to people and I am starting to enjoy shopping now. I am almost like a brand new person. Also, I learnt the importance of exercise. I was never tired during the daytime in camp but it's a different story at home. Anyway I did enjoy my long break back in the civilian world and I will be looking forward to the next weekend. Well, that and sleeping time every night is my driving force now.

There is 7 more weeks of BMT left. March 12 is my ultimate aim. I have got to work extremely hard and find some aspects of military life to enjoy. That, I think, is the key for a smooth ride through BMT.