Supporting Service Members and Their Families

When a service member transitions out of the organization, they may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their future, especially if they previously relied on a structured routine and feedback from their superiors regarding their performance. As such, they may feel lost and may lose confidence in their ability to effectively lead a successful life after service.

Transitioning is a difficult process, both for them and for their families. To make the process easier, it is important for the service member to invest in their own individual needs as well as the needs of their families. For instance, taking the time to understand what it feels like to leave that rigid structure, but more importantly, to embrace the uncertainty of a more flexible and less detailed way of working and living, can help reduce the stress and uncertainty associated with this process.

During this time of transition, it is also important for service members to remember that although there is a large amount of uncertainty and ambiguity associated with leaving the military and embarking on a new journey, it is equally vital to embrace new experiences—both positive and negative—as they arise. By fully investing in this new chapter of their lives, they can not only ensure their success but, more importantly, start building a long and prosperous life.