Finding Success and Fulfillment as a Military Spouse

This year marks a new chapter for our family as we transition out of military life. Reflecting on our incredible ten-year journey with the U.S. Air Force, I felt inspired to share the personal and professional experiences that have shaped my path. My goal is to inspire and empower others in similar situations to pursue their careers and passions, despite the stigma often associated with this role. "Military spouse" is just a label—your purpose is yours to define, and your life is yours to shape.

Breaking Barriers

Life as a military spouse often feels like navigating a whirlwind of constant change and uncertainty. Frequent moves (every 2 years for us!), deployments, and unpredictability create unique challenges that can make pursuing a career feel daunting and sometimes just impossible. Despite all of this, I made it a priority and personal goal to break these barriers to build a fulfilling, financially stable career.

The data reveals the stark reality of military spouse employment. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, about 50% of military spouses were employed in 2021, with a third working part-time. Moreover, the unemployment rate among military spouses is between 22% and 24%, significantly higher than the national average; with this number inching closer to 40% during the COVID19 pandemic. These statistics underscore the need for more accessible employment opportunities for military spouses [beyond traditional paths like social media influencing or MCMs].

It could be a groundbreaking and inspiring step for more corporations to establish hiring goals for military spouses, specifically—not just for individual contributors, back-office, or middle management roles, but for leadership, executive, and even C-Suite positions. I’ll admit, balancing my career and family has left me little time to advocate for this cause, but it’s something I hope to prioritize—especially after uncovering the disheartening statistics while researching for this article.

Ok, I digress...

Owning Your Path to Success and Fulfillment

While the challenges are significant, I found ways to create success and fulfillment by being adaptable and persistent. Here’s what worked for me:

• Leverage your network: Tap into personal connections, including friends, family, and your spouse’s professional contacts.
• Build a local network: Use LinkedIn or other social media to reach out to professionals in your area, especially those in roles or companies you admire.
• Engage with your community: Spend time at local coffee shops, join a gym or yoga studio, and foster connections with people who share your interests.
• Learn new skills: Continuously develop skills that align with your career goals to improve your prospects and create new opportunities.
• Be your own advocate: Speak up for what you deserve and learn negotiation strategies. If you’re already in a job you enjoy or currently employed, focus on building a strong case for that raise or promotion, or why you deserve that job!

For example, I decided to try something new and join a local Pilates studio in OKC after years of curiosity. This was a small step that transformed more than just my fitness—it connected me to a community of accomplished, supportive women who have opened doors for both me and my husband as he prepares to launch a new business. Their advice, connections, and generosity have created opportunities and make me feel grounded. This experience is a powerful reminder that small, brave actions—like joining a new community—can lead to meaningful relationships and life-changing possibilities.

This all requires courage and may feel outside your comfort zone, but the rewards are worth the effort.

Celebrating Achievements That Got Me Here

Over the past decade, I have reached several milestones I am proud to have achieved and/ or persevered through:

• Moved five times across four states in ten years.
• Raising two amazing children, whilst navigating two deployments with them as infants and toddlers.
• Pioneered remote work, long before it became mainstream during the pandemic. [I developed very effective strategies and systems for a productive workday—something I plan to write about soon.]
• Had the opportunity to work at three mission-driven companies and visionary leaders that believe in my potential.
• Earned four promotions, each representing perseverance and growth.
• Built connections and relationships with some of the smartest, most inspiring people I’ve ever met.
• Transition from being an HR expert to a more well-rounded business professional with the ability to make a broader impact - both within and outside the organization.

One of my most rewarding accomplishments was earning a promotion while navigating the demands of two toddlers, managing a deployed husband’s absence, and preparing for a cross-country move. This proved to me that dedication, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for your work can lead to surprising and meaningful outcomes.

Oh, and also birthing my first child while my husband was on temporary duty (TDY) [and no family around].

Closing Thoughts

This chapter of my life has highlighted that we, as military spouses, can achieve our goals and pursue our passions, regardless of all that. We have accompanied our partners or spouses into military life, often without even fully understanding the challenges or uncertainties ahead. That choice alone is a testament to our courage and adaptability.

As we move on from the U.S. Air Force, I carry the lessons of military life with me as they are a foundational part of who I am today. We are excited to forge this new chapter and embrace the opportunities ahead!

Your Turn

What challenges do you face, and what strategies help you overcome them? I’d love to hear your stories and insights. Together, we can inspire each other to achieve even greater things.