If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re thinking about starting a career in law enforcement, corrections, or another public safety role. And maybe you’re feeling a little unsure, anxious—even afraid.
That’s completely normal.
Almost everyone is scared to start. I was too.
But I’m here to tell you: you’re more capable than you realize—and the reward on the other side is worth every step of the journey.
You’re Not Doing This Alone
One of the biggest misconceptions people have when they first consider this line of work is that you’re out there by yourself, facing everything alone.
That couldn’t be further from the truth.
In this field, you work as part of a team. You train as a team. You move as a unit. You always have someone you can call for backup—whether it’s during a tense situation or a routine check. You are never expected to handle everything on your own, and you’re never left to fend for yourself.
You’ll learn how to communicate with your team effectively, how to cover each other, how to respond together, and how to trust the people around you to do the same for you. That support is what builds confidence—and that confidence is what keeps you sharp and safe.
You Are the Authority
If you’re headed into corrections, you may be worried about dealing with inmates. That’s a common fear, especially for first-timers. But here’s something you need to lock into your mindset from day one:
You are the authority. Not them.
You’ll be trained to take control of situations with confidence, composure, and respect. Inmates may test boundaries, but they don’t run the facility—you and your team do. You’ll learn how to de-escalate situations, how to stay in control, and how to command respect without ever having to raise your voice.
You’re not going in there to intimidate anyone—but you’re also not there to be intimidated. You are trained. You are prepared. And you are backed by policy, law, and your fellow officers.
And let’s be clear about something that often gets overlooked:
Correctional officers are law enforcement officers.
You are officially recognized as a peace officer, and your position carries legal weight. The same laws that protect police officers in the line of duty also protect you. That includes protection against threats, harassment, or violence while performing your job.
You’re not “just a guard.” You’re a vital part of the criminal justice system—and your badge, your training, and your authority reflect that.
It’s Not Just a Job—It’s a Foundation for Life
What you’re stepping into is so much more than a job. It’s a career that builds you up while letting you serve others. It’s a path that gives you real purpose and tangible rewards.
Let’s talk about those rewards for a second:
- Health insurance that covers you and your loved ones
- Dental and vision benefits that protect your long-term well-being
- Life insurance that gives your family peace of mind
- Pensions and retirement plans like a 401K, so you can actually enjoy your later years
- Job stability in a world where many jobs aren’t guaranteed
It’s a career that sets you—and your family—up for success. You’ll be able to pay your bills, build a home, save for the future, and take care of those who depend on you.
That kind of security? It’s rare these days. And it’s right in front of you—if you’re willing to reach for it.
What to Tell Yourself When Doubt Creeps In
Fear will whisper in your ear. Doubt will try to convince you you’re not tough enough, not smart enough, not ready.
Here’s what you do:
Tell yourself you can. Every single time.
Even if you don’t believe it yet—say it until you do.
Because confidence doesn’t come first—action does.
Once you take that first step—into the classroom, onto the training mat, through that first drill—you’ll start to see who you really are. And you’ll realize that the person who thought they couldn’t… just did.
I’d Still Do It All Over Again
I went through the pepper spray. I went through the physical training, the long classroom hours, the mental challenges. And if I had to? I’d do it again tomorrow.
Because even though I haven’t officially started my career as a correctional officer yet, I’m right on the edge—I’m just waiting on the call that confirms it. And everything I’ve done up to this point has led me here. The discipline, the training, the knowledge—it’s all part of what I’m becoming. And I’m proud of that.
If you’re still wondering if you’ve got what it takes, let me end with this:
You do.
You’re stronger than you think.
You’re more capable than you realize.
And you’re absolutely not alone.
So stop telling yourself why you can’t—and start proving to yourself that you can.
Go for it.
You won’t regret it.