This Is Why So Many People Struggle With Their Military Transition

I am often confounded by the stories about the difficulty of transitioning from the military to the civilian world. When I "transitioned" (we didn't even call it that) there was zero preparation, no classes, no counseling, no resume writing etc. There was a firm handshake and you were on your way. My transition took from the time I left the main gate and Camp Lejeune to the time I arrived home in my car in Florida. It was time to make something happen. I leveraged what few contacts I had and a limited network.

I always view (and continue to view) the skills and training I gained in the Marine Corps as advantages over others. When I left the Marines I was a 22 year old with no college degree and no real leg up on anyone except things like: Attention to detail, being on time everywhere, being highly reliable, action oriented, doing more than was expected, being willing to do the harder job (s), looking the part (professional) in all situations, understanding that making my bosses job easier was a core function of mine. There are a score of others but the point is I never felt at a disadvantage against anyone or that how my brain was firing was causing issues. I often found it easy to outperform my coworkers while not trying to showboat.

Problem solving in the military is not much different than problem solving anywhere else. The problems may be different but that is about it. Companies value people that get results, make a difference, can work well with others and are highly reliable. Leaving the military may require you to take a job you think might be beneath your skill set or level of education in order to have an opportunity to prove your value. Do is half of done, don't allow the notion that "transitioning" is some major hurdle that requires significant preparation and study.

Lol... and here I thought I was the only one who got their head examined... hahahaha!!!

All joking aside, great article. Thank you for sharing SSG Eric Burleson