For those about to leave the military, or a job you currently hold, you should already be preparing for the next game. I really enjoyed watching the Super Bowl last night and heard somebody talk about taking the break after the game, but already having a plan to get ready for next year. This is a really important step.
I saw a friend of mine the other night. He is a month and a half into his “Terminal Leave,” using the last of his earned vacation time, but no longer having to report for duty. He said something I hear many who leave the military say, “I have about a month of pay and benefits left, but then I have to find my next job.” Now he is a good friend, a great leader, and someone I really respect, but in that moment, he showed me he was not “In the game.” He was not prepared for the next step in his life, and frankly, that puts him and his family at risk. Now in all honest, it is easy for me to point this out as I did the same thing, and more than once. Sometimes, it is really hard to stay in the game.
Unfortunately, with the current job market, taking a break or a breather can really cause problems in getting that next job. I really believe the best time to find a new job is when you actually have a job. Now I fully encourage you to give your best effort to your current employer, but if you are ready to move on, spend your personal time looking for the next opportunity. There is not nearly the pressure of finding the new position when you have money coming in and benefits to support you and your family. Sometimes easier said than done, I know. I left my last position over things going on in the business that in my mind I could simply not support. As such, I left without having the next job lined up. This puts a lot more pressure on me.
Be very active in your job search and put in place the habit and routine of looking for and applying for positions. Do something every day! Don’t forget to network with friends, former colleagues, and others as they are really the best source of jobs.
Another problem I see is when a lot of people leave the military, they lose or give up some things. There is no more accountability. There is nobody who is going to call you on not showing up for Physical Training in the morning, or for not showing up to work. I have seen some of the most disciplined people simply fall apart. One of the key things I find is the necessity of keeping a routine, or, “Staying in the Game!” So maybe you don’t do PT every day, but back off to three days a week. Staying physically active is good for the body and soul. It gives you a sense of accomplishment. Again, this is one of those lessons of experience. Actively managing your time is another important task. If you don’t manage your time, it will manage you. If you don’t take steps to keep your life in balance, it will quickly fall out of balance. I just published a short eBook (Time Management and Life Balance)to address just these issues. It is available on Amazon for purchase. It is an easy and short read with recommendations and steps I took to solve this same problem I was facing. Whether you get this book, or find another plan, I just really encourage you to get and stay in the game.
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