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The Guide to Get Motivated for Your Transition out of the Military

Military to Civilian Transition

Getting back to a civilian life may be stressful for a veteran. You should get used to your home and civilian social communications again. On one hand, you will feel more relaxed and will have time for leisure activities and spending time with family and friends. All of your friends and relatives have been waiting for you and you will definitely have to meet all of them. But, on the other hand, you will have to think about your future steps in this life. We prepared a few tips that will help you to pass the process of transition quicker and with less stresses.

Tips for Military Transition

Everyday civilian life may seem strange and uncommon for a veteran who spent a long time serving in the military. And sometimes, it’s hard to get used to this rhythm. Here are some tips that will help you live out the rules of the civil life:

Don’t rush. If you feel lost after the military and do not know what to start with, all you have to do is relax. You don’t have to fuss, just calm down and be sure that your friends and family will help you to pass the adaptation process smoothly. Of course, some things have changed while you were serving in the military. But the people closest to you will be glad to give you a supportive hand in any situation.

Determine all the advantages of getting a job. You might have some fears concerning employment, but you should understand that a career may open new horizons for you. Make a list and write down all the benefits of having a job: networking; using your time profitably; financial priorities; encouraging your ambitions, etc. You will meet new people and those everyday interactions will help you to adapt faster to a social life.

Select a job. Ask yourself what you like the most in your life. Maybe you cook well, like to sell, drive a car, or you’re a good writer. Listen to yourself and find a job which will match your interests. But don’t forget to complete a proper resume before sending it to the employer. Be sure it describes your best skills, experience, and strong sides of your character. While serving in the military you developed many useful qualities: discipline, leadership, self-confidence, punctuality, etc. All those characteristics are desired by employers. If you need help with your resume, ask your friends or family to look at it and they will recommend how you can improve it.

Find your motivation. The process of transitioning may be challenging and take a lot of time. But you have to stay motivated because civilian life has many incredible things to show you. Discover something new every day, visit interesting places, and take inspiration from people like you. Some veterans practice playing in different mobile games like car racing, slots for fun, adventure games to reduce tension. It is stated in many scientific resources that mobile apps or just computer playing can help to keep the mind cool. There are veterans communities which can help you adapt to a social life. Become a member of these communities and you will have a chance to listen to the stories of other soldiers who transitioned the same way as you did. They will tell you how they managed to get back to a civilian life successfully.

The transition may be a hard process but remember that life is full of interesting experiences. There are tons of people who are ready to walk this path with you. Remember that you are not alone and there are thousands of ways you can realize your ambitions. Of course, everybody has his own recipe for the transition. What’s yours?

If you have comments or feedback about any article, please email your thoughts to info@acp-advisornet.org.

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