Treasure 
Post-military is what a lot of service members look forward to. They see it as an end to the regimented way of life they live while serving in the military.
Some of them think of how fun it would be to just lay on the bed without hearing the sound of a bugle or someone issuing out orders. A lot of them look forward to being able to travel without having to apply for an official pass or being declared AWOL.
But in reality, Is this all about it?
I must admit, some veterans adapt easily when transitioning from the military to the outside world. However, for some, “IT’S AN UPHILL TASK”.
Why is this so?
Who should be held accountable?
Is it as a result of failure to plan on the part of the soldier, the military, or government they so loyally served?
These questions beg for answers BUT Surprisingly, as you answer one, another crop up.
SO, to address these questions, we need to first look at the responsibility of the soldier in all of these.
The Individual Soldier
Every soldier has a lot to prepare for, before transitioning to the outside world. This is because things are much different after they leave the military.
Indeed, the nature of military training and living creates a bond between soldiers. However, when leaving the job, every soldier leaves as an individual.
It becomes more or less like they’re all alone “Up against the Wild” surrounded by people they feel don’t understand them.
This usually happens because they believe the military job is all they can do……that’s all they know! (Remember, a lot of them joined the military as teenagers). Let’s just say, they grew up in the military!.
Hence, adjusting from military to civilian life….they find traumatizing.
Such veterans often don’t move far from the military base (I believe this gives them some sense of security). This often results in neighborhoods around such areas being heavily populated by military veterans.
Here are some tips for Successful Transition
SAVE
Transitioning from military to civilian life is a huge culture shift. The need for every soldier to imbibe a saving culture is of utmost importance as there’s nothing like saving for the “rainy day”. We all know that while in service, the military provides a lot of perks for free or just for a token. For instance, healthcare, dental, rent, water, electricity, and in some military, FOOD.
In some other countries like the United States, military men enjoy a lot of perks and military discounts on flights, education, and shopping in appreciation of their service.
Savings made from such can be kept in a dedicated savings account. Such accounts should not have a debit card attached to them as this will help resist the urge of spending from it.
The importance of savings can never be underestimated when one considers the fact that most of the aforementioned perks cease after retirement. Fact is, no matter how little you save from your monthly salary, you will be surprised what it would amount to years later.
It’s never too late to start saving for post-military as “LITTLE DROPS OF WATER, as they say, MAKE THE MIGHTY OCEAN”.
MAINTAIN A CLEAN SHEET
Maintaining a clean sheet in terms of debt profile is VERY important. To achieve this, one needs to prioritize and place emphasis on only necessities that are of importance on a scale of preference.
This is because, paying off one’s payment on mortgages and loans before retirement would be a relief, as you would have fewer worries after retirement.
That’s the reason why PRIORITIZING before fulfilling one’s needs is VERY important.
CONSIDER YOUR CREDENTIALS
Consider your credentials especially if you intend to join the civilian workforce. Remember, employers may not be interested in finding individuals with military skills.
Therefore, work towards getting requisite qualifications and certifications in your chosen field.
Amazingly, utilizing MILITARY SCHOLARSHIPS is a better way to do this.
HAVE A GOOD CAREER PLAN
You would definitely need a job especially when you get out young. Finding something that makes you feel fulfilled will go a long way to help.
Therefore, be intentional about what you would want to do after “Living and Breathing” in the military.
POST MILITARY: REMEMBER TO NETWORK AND SEEK HELP WHEN NEEDED.
Network with a community that understands you. Hang out with fellow veterans who have long transitioned….they have been there themselves. This may help you realize things you didn’t know were there and may open up some great opportunities for you. However, distance yourself from those who always complain till you find your feet.
To every soldier out there, always remember…
“Planning your transition at least 2-3 years before separation will definitely aid to navigate the difficulties veterans face after being warrior brave”.
