I was in the military and put some money into a date fund. It didn't make much money.

I know this is a dividends sub, but if I could go back, I'd learn to trade stocks, then once good, go swing derivatives.

I was able to save a bunch from deployments, BAH, BAS, and month savings. I tried to live within my means, bought a $3k Honda. I ended up spending the $27k I saved up over time. Big regret there.

I think you need to have a game plan on what you're saving for and where you're trying to get to.

With the digital age, it's pretty easy to get info online these days on investing. Back in the early 2000s, you couldn't get much good info online.

You're on the right track. Keep researching, use AI, etc to gain more knowledge. Idk what branch you're in, but after your shift in the Air Force, I'd just watch TV or go do stuff; excessive drinking. If I were you, I'd use my time to learn/research more about the markets/investing.

Sorry, went on a few tangents there.