Getting Into the Transition Mindset
March 8, 2008
When I retired in 2001, I thought I was ready for the civilian work force, I was wrong. My first job (in charge of civilians at a school) was quite different, I had gone from one extreme to the other, from a well organized outfit to a disorganized one.
A fellow veteran told me that I would never would see the level of cooperation I saw in the military, and he was right.
I found work in law enforcement, more related to the military mindset. You may not realize that you have changed until you transition, but don't fear it. Just understand that your former title will mean little to most employers. You may experience age descrimination.
I also recommend that you have retirement ceremony, to get you in the transition mindset.
There are certain jobs that are easier to transition into, for example organized labor like the brotherhood of electrical workers and police or fire departments.
But no matter what you decide on, there will be an adjustment.
(Submitted by Paul Cook)
