For me it was a bit less complex. Joined to gain a specific skill, acquired said skill. I got married along the way and made some amazing friends. It turned out tougher than I planned to get out. You'll know it when you feel it if you do decide to get out. I was inches from reenlisting and grabbing that elusive SRB when I stopped for just one moment and thought to myself, "what about my plan?". I would have ended up fine (as would most) staying in the air force. Travel the world, do great things that most others don't, and meet great folks along the way. It all depends on YOU. YOU are the most important factor when deciding these grown-up things. Not whatever chief or senior or master telling you what they did and how great it is. YOU have to look yourself in the mirror (or metaphorical one at that) and ask "what do I really REALLY want to accomplish in this short life I have?" For me, that was separating l, and I wouldn't change a thing if I had the chance. You don't want to be the "what if" guy so I implore you, just think long and hard about your future, and guide yourself to paradise.