What was the biggest adjustment you had to make when transitioning from Active Duty to Civilian life?

For me it was communication. I spoke directly and assumed responsibility for everything. It took a while to know not everyone is judging me as a leader, woman or Air Force officer. Now I'm just Becky. Bossy but in a softer way...kinda...I don't know, maybe my husband has a different opinion....

it might've been how much more relaxed everybody is in the civilian world. I wasn't scared of running into somebody higher ranked than me all the time. and when I did run into somebody above me they were just normal people. it wasn't some SGM with short man syndrome who saw my rank and demanded the utmost discipline from me. it was nice to relax.

Figuring out my work wordrobe and dealing with people who gave no mission focus.

I was shocked at how bad some civilian organizations were run? Shocked by how badly they were flapping in the wind. Still am.

SN Vivien Roman-Hampton I was discharged in June 1972 when there were many civilians that did not like the military or veterans. In the military, there are fellow brothers and sisters. When you are back n the civilian world, you are dealing with folks that think and act differently than you are used to. It is a culture shock that you have to adjust to.

The hardest transition is dealing with civies. Even the simplest conversation with them may seem they have been living on another planet during your time in service. Your reactions to work and well everything else are much more immediate than everyone else around you. You will know who a majority of the veterans are just by the way they carry themselves. It will take time but it isn't difficult, it will eventually just fall in place.

Working regular hours...you should try it, it is a great concept.

I had no idea how "militarized" I had become in my bearing, communications, everything. Apparently it was obvious to anyone who had not been in uniform. I hope it showed in a positive way but I'm still not real sure. Having said that, once I retired, I never looked back and never said I wish I was back in the Army. The Army was very good to and for me but it was done and time to move on.

Remembering I wasn't a NCO anymore and that "worker bee" meant that I had to bring up any issues to management instead of taking care of it myself; a.k.a. at the lowest level possible.

After training on the Guard side I can tell you I more often than not wish I had gone Active because I actually enjoyed it. That said, if you're leaving maybe consider doing 3-6 years in the Guard or Reserves as your final stay in the military. I think it has the potential for a valuable transition phase for anyone on Active Duty. You still have that sense of military while you are engaged in your Civilian life.

Just a thought.

EDIT

I still don't like Civilians very much. Didn't really like people in general before I joined, but now things just pop out more. Constant irks.