Uno, Out.
Tabitha Donnell
I used to help big brands with their marketing. Now I work with non-profits and entrepreneurs to win with their social media accounts → No LinkedIn Experience Required Newsletter → Air Force Veteran
Getting out of the military is not easy.
I don’t care what anyone says.
And I believe the longer you stay in, the harder it is to get out.
You get comfortable.
You feel secure.
You know on the 1st and the 15th…
…you’re getting paid.
And you know the EXACT amount.
But once you decide to leave the military, everything changes.
Suddenly, you're faced with the uncertainty of finding a new job, navigating civilian life, and managing your finances without the familiar structure of military pay.
It's not just the financial aspect that makes the transition difficult.
The military becomes a way of life, ingrained in your daily routine and identity.
Leaving means leaving behind a close-knit community, a sense of purpose, and a strong support system that you've come to rely on.
The longer you've served, the more challenging it becomes to adapt to the civilian world. Your military skills and experiences may not always translate directly into the job market, and you may find yourself starting from scratch in a new career field.
Moreover, the military provides a clear path for advancement and personal growth. You know exactly what you need to do to earn promotions and increase your responsibilities.
In the civilian world, it's not always as straightforward. You have to figure out how to navigate a different set of rules and expectations, often without the same level of guidance and structure.
Leaving the military also means leaving behind a support system that understands the unique challenges you've faced. Your fellow service members become more than just colleagues; they become your brothers and sisters, your comrades.
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They've experienced the same hardships, sacrifices, and triumphs. It can be incredibly difficult to find that same level of camaraderie and understanding in the civilian world.
But, despite all of these challenges, leaving the military also opens up new opportunities and possibilities.
It gives you the chance to pursue your passions, explore different career paths, and create a life outside of the military bubble. It's a chance to rediscover who you are and what you want to do with your life.
So, while getting out of the military may not be easy, it's a necessary step for ALL service members.
It's a chance to grow, evolve, and find new meaning and purpose in life. It may be tough, but with determination, resilience, and support, you can successfully navigate the transition and create a fulfilling civilian life.
Think of your time in the military as a deck of Uno cards.
As the years flow on, you drop cards.
At the end of the game, you’re left holding that last card.
You slam it down, saying "Uno, out!"
You win.
Now, let’s start a new game with a new deck of cards.
This is the civilian game now, and you’re going to win this one too.
Uno, out.