April 3, 2017, by Eileen O’Shanassy – Being in the military is one of the greatest honors and experiences a person can have, but at some point, the experience is going to end whether you serve for two years or over twenty. Some people have an easy time transitioning into civilian life and others have a harder go of it, but everyone has to make changes in different parts of their lives. Even if you stay in the same career field in civilian life as you were serving in during your military time, the work you do and how you do it will most likely change. Here are some ideas to help you get used to the transition.
A Plan Never Hurts
Putting together a transition plan is a great first step for both you and your family. There are things that are taken care of for you, or at least paid for, by the military while you’re serving, so it’s good to remember things like the fact that the next time you decide to take a new job and move, no one will be paying for the packers and shipping service. It will all be on you. Your leaders might also be able to recommend better ways to plan out your transition.
Is there a Doctor in the House?
Medical care in the military isn’t usually referred to as insurance as you often go to base clinics, hospitals, and other on-base facilities. However, once you’re out, what coverage and from where for you and your family is a major concern. If you are going right to work for a civilian company, be sure to find out exactly what insurance plans are offered and review thoroughly to make sure you and your family get the coverage that you need.
Home Healing
Make your new home a safe, comfortable place. It’s not going to be like your old team or platoon. Your house should be a place you feel most like yourself. Be sure to add in security as well. Keeping your family safe with an inexpensive ADT alarm system is cheap and easy for your peace of mind.
It’s a Big Deal
What you did in the service was important no matter whether you were a clerk, a pilot, a loadmaster, or a cook. Don’t sell yourself short. Be sure to remember all the aspects of your job. If working in logistics meant you secured thousands or even millions of dollars’ worth of supplies using a sophisticated security system with integrated cameras, don’t say you gave out helmets and flak vests. Some things won’t translate to the civilian world but at a very early point in your military career you probably started supervising people, don’t forget that at interviews, either.
Every military member gets training that you wouldn’t get anywhere else, but how to transition back into the civilian world isn’t really covered until you’re about to leave. Take advantage of everything that is offered when it comes to transition services and be strong, just like you were taught the first day of basic training.
Author Bio: Eileen O’Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check out her Twitter @eileenoshanassy.