Posted on Nov 18, 2015
What is the worst part, personally, about transitioning into civilian life?
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Responses: 82
The uncertainty, hands down. Some people leave active duty on Friday, as the saying goes, and report back to work in civilian clothes on Monday while on terminal leave. (The much-vaunted dual income). As much as that sounds cool, I do wonder if it's entirely fair. I relocated from San Diego to Las Vegas, only having finished my most recent deployment mere months before terminal began. Needless to say, it was rather difficult. But whose fault was that? Mine.
If you're a careerist, you need to think about going to TAP and formulating a robust plan about separating at least two years before your end of active obligated service. Guys that are in for 30 or more probably should stake it out at least three years, perhaps more, before retirement. Time is money. You have certain resources on active duty that you don't when you're out, namely a CAAC card that opens up a lot avenues of approach, so to speak.
Whether you're a one-hitch-and-out-er or a careerist, you have to have a plan, and it had better include for contingencies and a timetable much worse than you think it will ever be. Take it from one who knows.
If you're a careerist, you need to think about going to TAP and formulating a robust plan about separating at least two years before your end of active obligated service. Guys that are in for 30 or more probably should stake it out at least three years, perhaps more, before retirement. Time is money. You have certain resources on active duty that you don't when you're out, namely a CAAC card that opens up a lot avenues of approach, so to speak.
Whether you're a one-hitch-and-out-er or a careerist, you have to have a plan, and it had better include for contingencies and a timetable much worse than you think it will ever be. Take it from one who knows.
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The worst part was finding something I could do using the training and skills learned. Everyone said I was to experienced for there business or job! And going out on a medical!??? OMG! They will all look at you or look away and then ask if it will affect you performance of the job! I lost so many jobs that way. Things have changed some the past couple years for vets getting out, but don't expect them to be kewl, Capt Seid Waddell said it as right as anyone can! "Don't expect anyone to have your six" I took a job stocking selves at Walmart and moved up to tire manger before i found a decent paying job at a mental hospital, And for gods sake use your GI bill and use your VA benefits! Good luck man!
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One word.... Patience!!!
You will probably be one of the first to show up in the mornings.
Not a lot of organization or the working together mentality.
The thing that is hardest for me is to see the lack of leadership unfortunately. Civilian employers careless about their employees as long as they are doing their job.
It's hard not to cuss, or say military jargon but you'll learn.
You will be annoyed the constant complaining of petty stuff. Depending on employer you might see a lack of professionalism also.
You'll be fine just learn to be patient. So your job at best of your ability and if asked for constructive criticism then give it. Watch your bluntness though.... it's a gift and curse ( ;
You will probably be one of the first to show up in the mornings.
Not a lot of organization or the working together mentality.
The thing that is hardest for me is to see the lack of leadership unfortunately. Civilian employers careless about their employees as long as they are doing their job.
It's hard not to cuss, or say military jargon but you'll learn.
You will be annoyed the constant complaining of petty stuff. Depending on employer you might see a lack of professionalism also.
You'll be fine just learn to be patient. So your job at best of your ability and if asked for constructive criticism then give it. Watch your bluntness though.... it's a gift and curse ( ;
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I have just recently ETSd and its not that hard. The only difference is getting used to the way whatever job you have does things.
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SGT Justin Anderson
Resume tips for civilian world:
http://m.realwarriors.net/node/1298
Basic transition expectations and tips: (this guy is AF though... So that's like 1/2 civi to full civi, you may find good in it though. Also since you're an 11B.. I know reading is a challenge so he also has a podcast. Just kidding on that last bit Sgt, I love my 11Bs)
http://themilitarywallet.com/military-to-civilian-transition-tips/
Finally- a packing list. (This one is a little older, but still good guidelines)
https://news.clearancejobs.com/2011/06/13/the-final-countdown-your-military-separation-checklist/
GL Sgt- I wish you the best.
Resume tips for civilian world:
http://m.realwarriors.net/node/1298
Basic transition expectations and tips: (this guy is AF though... So that's like 1/2 civi to full civi, you may find good in it though. Also since you're an 11B.. I know reading is a challenge so he also has a podcast. Just kidding on that last bit Sgt, I love my 11Bs)
http://themilitarywallet.com/military-to-civilian-transition-tips/
Finally- a packing list. (This one is a little older, but still good guidelines)
https://news.clearancejobs.com/2011/06/13/the-final-countdown-your-military-separation-checklist/
GL Sgt- I wish you the best.
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Communications with Wife is first and foremost important! then THE family, friends. If this dont help, go to support group? And relax. U will be fine. As long as ur motivation is strong and steadfat
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The worst part initially was my expectation that people will do what I say quickly. I had a woman tell me one time to settle down, I wasn't in the Marine Corps anymore. That put me to reflecting on my behavior. I recognized I missed my Corps.
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Just think of it as having a very different or non existing command or management structure with no uniform required. The ass kissers and micro managers are rampant, regardless if corporate or not.
Just figure out what your job is and what your bosses boss wants and do it. Many times you will figure out your boss is an idiot promoted because he can't do the job and can't be fired because or some favor owed somewhere. The work day passes quicker when your busy so avoid the gossips, they just wanna spread rumors about you as soon as you tell them something juicy. Somethings are the same as the military. Like the military, some leaders are great, some not. Look for something you enjoy doing and the rest doesn't matter
Just figure out what your job is and what your bosses boss wants and do it. Many times you will figure out your boss is an idiot promoted because he can't do the job and can't be fired because or some favor owed somewhere. The work day passes quicker when your busy so avoid the gossips, they just wanna spread rumors about you as soon as you tell them something juicy. Somethings are the same as the military. Like the military, some leaders are great, some not. Look for something you enjoy doing and the rest doesn't matter
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It was easy, I got out w/ 3 MONTHS of leave time. I had job beforbefore Ets date. The separation from my friends AND all i knew for yrs I guess
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I have my worries to as I am medically retiring as well. I will miss the Arm but realize that I will never be a full civilian and thus have to accept it, the Army has changed me
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