What are some things that you wish you did different, or worked well for you, when transitioning from the military to civilian life?

I think the benchmarks on timing (Retiring, ETS) need to be pushed back to the left 6 months to 12 months depending on each individual circumstance. For instance: after deciding to depart the Service one should scout out the Company and job title that they would like to transition to. Look at the job requirements and if civilian credentials are required. Examples that I have seen are PMP, PMI, LLS, ect. The transition period is the time one's needs to get prepared so that by the time they land on their feet in their new base of operations that they are ready to walk into a job on day 1 and get to work.

SSgt John Axtell II Worried about it less. Build your checklist, execute it. Don't worry about those items you don't have control over.

Transition for me, from military life into civilian was fairly simple, except for the tough guy stand when my decisions were challenged or when another leader insulted me. Remember; competitive behavior in civilian careers is far more than in the military and, if you get ruffled, the aggressors win that battle. The tough boy stand is seen as a weakness and, not your strength.

Go easy and learn the drill, before taking any reins; don't lead others, unless you are a doctor in that process or procedure. It doesn't make us inferior to learn a new drill from subordinates or peers.