From 'Invalid' to Invincible: What It Takes to Win Post-Service

The Marine Corps is one of the most elite organizations in the world. It comprises dedicated human beings committed to the common cause of protecting our nation and, more importantly, each other at all costs. Throughout my time in uniform, I did not view myself as a "Poster Child." I was the antithesis of that characterization, as I placed little value or effort in the areas where others excelled. I focused on more critical areas, such as mission accomplishment, over a fast run time, a squared-away uniform, or understanding orders and procedures. My energy was spent on investing my time in the development of others and being empathetic to the circumstances of my teammates, which created tension amongst other leaders. I developed a reputation for being rebellious and was not well-liked by those I didn't interact with daily. I did not "check the boxes" others valued, which fueled me to win every day. I compare my journey to that of the movie "Gattaca," and I am a character that was invalid.

The movie Gattaca features the storyline of a naturally born man who dreams of achieving great goals but is forced into a life of menial work with little opportunity because of his genetics. He dreams of being an astronaut and exploring space, but in this future world, he is seen as second class to those engineered for better outcomes. They are known as the valid; they are more intelligent, better looking, and designed to achieve more.

The main character, Vincent, finds an opportunity to change his life by assuming the identity of a "valid" born character who has been engineered and is tragically paralyzed in a car accident. He hatches a plot to assume the identity and goes to great lengths to achieve his dreams. He endures a stringent hygiene routine to remove excess skin from his body so as to conceal his identity. He works out vigorously, restricts his diet, studies every moment, and is willing to break his legs and endure months of recovery so as to appear to be the correct height. Through a goal-driven focus, discipline, and hard work, he fools those who are "valid" to stand amongst them as a revered future astronaut. His life is near perfect as he is scheduled to depart the Earth for a new planet when suddenly he is at risk of being found an imposter.

He must decide whether to remain committed to his goals or retreat in fear. With the stakes at their peak, he doubles down in his efforts to conceal his "invalid" identity and goes to great lengths to achieve his goals. With the investigators feverously looking for the invalid, he remains steadfast. His work ethic, attitude, and reactions are controlled. Instead of focusing on the circumstances he can't control, he focuses on becoming the best version of himself and is eventually able to find love, success, and a better life.

The same story can easily be applied to others leaving the military and beginning their transition. Many of those who are "valid" will have many advantages regarding transition. They will have the education, properly plan their exit, and "know what they want to do." They earned that advantage by correctly positioning themselves while in service. The vast majority are "invalid" and are going to find themselves in a position of being overlooked without the skillsets, degrees, and capabilities to contribute to the workforce in a significant way.

Whether you are "valid" or "invalid," I will share a few things that can hopefully open your eyes and help you on your journey.

1—Hard work beats "talent" every time. Those who are committed to their goals, relentless in their pursuits, develop and network, and take advantage of their time will win.

2- Just because you are "born invalid" doesn't mean you are destined to stay there. During your transition, you can reinvent who you want to be. It may take time, but you are only limited by the work you are willing to put into yourself. Finding the motivation is much easier when you have a community to help support you.

3-Just because you are "born valid" doesn't mean you are entitled to anything in the civilian workforce.

4-You achieved a "high rank" in the military. Chances are you will work more than you feel you should. You aren't entitled to anything and will have to prove your value. People will not bow to your will, and chances are your leadership skills, while helpful, will only be the answer to some problems.

5-Your goals might change, and you will seek purpose in the next phase of life. Money and success might be at the top of your list as you start your journey, but understand that your mindset may change regarding what you value, need, and want to accomplish next. Embrace it; it's part of the journey, and the sooner you shift your mindset, the easier it will be.

6-Save nothing for the swim back- Commit and go all in if you have a goal. If you have your time back in the AllegiantVets Skillbridge Program, you will have to work your ass off every day. You can choose how you invest your time; you better leave it all on the line. It's highly recommended that you seek help if you need it. Those that fully embrace this find a way to achieve their goals. It will take much work, but a community wants to support you. You have to bring it daily, and you have no one to blame except yourself if you don't achieve your goals.

I know that I was "invalid" throughout my service. I embraced it daily as a badge of honor and achieved a great career. I know I was "invalid" at the end of my service. I embrace being underestimated. I relish that others are more qualified and better liked because it is the fuel that drives my actions. Hard work will beat talent every time. Everything in life is earned, and those who embrace that mindset will overcome any transition if armed with the time, space, and community to allow themselves to thrive.

As you navigate your transition journey, remember that resilience, hard work, and community support are essential. Whether you identify with the 'valid' or 'invalid' challenges discussed here, know that you have the power to shape your future.

I invite you to reflect on your goals and dreams. How committed are you to achieving them, and what steps will you take to make them a reality? If you're not sure where to start, connect with the Allegiant Vets staff and tap into a supportive community that can help you thrive beyond your military service.

Take charge of your transition today. Embrace the mindset of determination and self-accountability. Your journey is unique, but with the right mindset and support, you can achieve your goals and build a fulfilling civilian life.

Are you willing to leave nothing for the swim back?

Marcus Haney Danny Breck Matt Lasher Stephanie Terro Richard Mabberley Stephen W. Tynissha N. Cromer Katie Jackson (Carlos) Jose C. Rios Allen Elisara Charles Shelton Anna Sprissler Jeremy Moore Tommy Dimitratos Jorge Santana, MSHRD Adam Shura Liam Wedel Antonio Reyes Aaron McDonald Macey Nelson Tearani Stockton Garrett Schneider Joshua Dominic Prado, MAEd-AET Katy Starks Blair Ragsdale Nick Perez ?? Delaina Morse Robert Lariosa Paul Keddell JOE KUZAN Dane Riddle victor montanez Pedro Z. Jake Fisher Kevin Schmiegel Nnamdi Boyd-okey Michael Meadows