Two years ago, I left the military after 10 years of service.
I got an MBA, tried out a few jobs, and learned hard lessons about transition.
Table of Contents
Decision to Leave
Conflicts were dying down, and the focus on success was missing the mark.
I believed I could have a greater impact out of uniform, though I had no idea if going to war and leading teams would translate to the private sector.
So I left and spent the last two years walking the grounds until I found the intersection of passion and pursuit.
Few people warn you that this journey—stepping away from a structured path to transition into something undefined—will force you to confront some deep, existential questions for the first time.
You’re On Your Own (YOYO)
Even though you have led teams the majority of your career, expect to be an individual contributor before you are a manager.
You have to prove yourself capable before proving yourself responsible.
The people that pat you on the back for your service will offer you a drink and advice, but not a job.
You’re owed nothing but an opportunity, and you have to sell the reason why.
Finding Mentorship
Mentorship is neither guaranteed nor expected.
Preparing someone for your job is not the norm on the outside; it is sometimes even perceived as a threat.
Find a mentor, dig in, and make interactions regular.
Boundless Responsibilities
There are no upper and lower bounds of responsibility.
In uniform, you have a fixed responsibility tied to rank and position.
On the outside, you will be expected to do everything your role touches.
What Matters Now
What you do today and tomorrow is more important to your employer than what you did in uniform.
They will respect and love what you did, but your service won’t impact their bottom line.
Culture and team, yes… but not their income.
Conclusion
The transition from military to civilian life is a profound journey that requires adaptation, humility, and persistence.
While your military experience provides valuable skills and perspective, the civilian sector operates by different rules.
Embrace the challenge of proving yourself anew, seek guidance where you can find it, and focus on delivering value in the present rather than relying on past achievements.
The path may be uncertain, but finding that intersection of passion and purpose makes the journey worthwhile.