Life after leaving the military was harder than I expected

3d ago·1 min read

Did 8 years in the Army and that was my whole identity. When I got out I had no idea who I was without it. Found out I was a dad though and that became my new mission basically. Had to learn how to be present instead of always being in soldier mode. Miss the brotherhood and the structure but being there for my two kids is purpose on a whole different level. Better version of myself now even though it was a rough transition.

5 comments119 views

Comments(5)

MMike T.Regular3d ago

That's a real transition right there. Going from military structure to figuring out who you are as a dad is heavy, but sounds like you found something solid. Your kids needed you to make that discovery.

KKevin P.Regular3d ago

Eight years is a long time to be in that identity. Props for recognizing that your kids became your new mission. That kind of purpose is what a lot of guys are looking for anyway.

RRonRegular3d ago

That's a real thing nobody warns you about. You weren't just leaving a job, you were leaving an identity. Parenting helps with that but it's still a lot to process.

MMarco R.New Dad2d ago

That transition is massive and honestly nobody talks about how hard the identity shift is. Eight years is a long time to have your whole life structured around one thing. How are you adjusting now?

MMiguelRegular2d ago

Going from military structure to civilian life and parenting at the same time is brutal. Be patient with yourself on this one.