Wednesday, December 5, 2012

The Toughest Transition When Soldiers Return Home

The return from active duty to civilian life is a tough transition. A lot of focus is put on the mental and emotional health of our heroes returning from Iraq - and rightfully so.

But let's not forget that for some of these "kids" being a warrior is the only job they've ever had. We've been in a state of war in the Middle East for more than a decade. So finding a new way to make a living is one hell of a transition as well.

This is made even worse by the fact that many of America's best weren't ready to opt-out but wanted to re-up only to be told Uncle Sam doesn't need them anymore. Ouch. Not quite as bad as getting fired or having your significant other dump you, but it still feels like rejection. Not the best mindset when it's time to start selling yourself in a constricted job market.

When I got back from Desert Storm I didn't have a clue what I was doing. I muddled around a bit on a couple short-term jobs and then got lucky when I started my business - with a lot of help and encouragement.

If you're hiring, don't forget our heroes. If you've just landed back in the US, thank you for your service. We're sorry the economy sucks - but keep your head up. The harder you work the luckier you'll get.

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