Transition equals significant change for most. In order to confidently and productively navigate this change you will need to come up with a strategy. Over the next five weeks I will be posting a series of strategies that will serve as a guide to common areas of difficulty in this time of transition for Veterans. The following areas will be covered in more detail over the next few weeks:
- Co-Existing with less detail oriented individuals
- Handling feelings of isolation
- Handling feelings of being "unarmed"
- Handling feelings of lack of protection without a group during sleep
- Co-Existing with a society that feels indifferent about your sacrifice
These areas are only a representative list of common areas that transitioning can become a challenge for Veterans. All of these areas point back to the culture and training that you receive as a member of the Military.
Being hyper aware of details is critical all the way from executing a mission to ensuring your uniform is inspection ready. As Veterans transition to the civilian sector they often find themselves amongst many who are much less detail oriented.
After years in the military Veterans find it hard to understand the lack of comradery that can exist. They are use to the secure feeling that the guy to your left and right has your back no matter what. This leaves Veterans feeling isolated from the support structure they are use to.
For some Veterans who have honorably served through one or more deployments and were use to having a weapon for protection day and night start to feel that being unarmed is not natural to them. The ability to carry a weapon that becomes your survival partner and then not having that poses an adjustment.
While deployed or even state side there are many situations that require close sleeping quarters. This could be for protection or due to the lack of other options. This sense of having a group around you while you sleep that has your safety in mind can be a challenge when transitioning to being alone or with just a spouse at night.
There has been a long history of a lack of understanding or caring about the sacrifice that comes from having served your Country. This is difficult for Veterans to comprehend and can cause a source of friction between them and those that show a clear indifference to the sacrifice.
I will be going into more depth on each of these topics over the next few weeks.
Landmark Life Coaching's Mission is to honorably and respectfully serve courageous groundbreakers and transitioning veterans to persevere in defining and executing their future by providing an atmosphere of comradery and trust that honors their dedication and commitment. This will empower our clients to feel whole, honored, respected and fulfilled in defining and living their life purpose.
Veterans Coach/Speaker/Writer Dwayne.paro@landmarklifecoaching.com