Thankful for the Gift of Resiliency
Resiliency is the ability to bounce back in the face of adversity. As Veterans, we can say with a certain amount of confidence that after we separate, we will never be as hot or as cold, or as hungry or thirsty, or as tired or dirty (and smelly) as we were at least once in our past lives.
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines resilience as, “1: the capability of a strained body to recover its size and shape after deformation caused especially by compressive stress; 2: an ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.”
First and for many of us, RHIP* and we just resigned ourselves and “embraced the suck!” Second, the reality is we consciously raised our right hands for this way of life as a means towards an end “to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States” and obey the orders of the officers appointed over us. Third, we did our backwards planning and got the job done as quickly as possible; usually with no little or no fanfare and even less credit. Fourth, we did it because of our commitment to Duty, Honor, Country and core values regardless of branch or specialty. And finally, as professionals we simply moved on and “charlie miked” to the next objective.
*Rank Has Its Privileges
It is because of this adversity and the thick skin that came with it we possess more resiliency than our civilian counterparts in the workplace. The saying is “Hire a Veteran if you want someone who is punctual, trainable, extremely loyal, will work until the mission is accomplished and won’t freak out when the server goes down.” This is more true than not. And it because of this gift of resiliency: The ability to bounce back in the face of adversity. Courtesy of Uncle Sam.
So own your resiliency. Create a playlist of sorts to keep motivated and positive. And pick a mantra while you’re owning it. If you don’t have a personal one of your own, no need to make one up. Our culture and theatrical depictions are filled with these:
Standing Tall, Looking Good, Ought to be in Hollywood!
Whatever It Takes
The Only Easy Day was Yesterday
Improvise, Adapt, Overcome
Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way
Remember too that Veterans are generally the first to lend support to others. It’s in our nature to serve. But Veterans are also generally the last to ask for help. It’s in our nature too; it’s looked at as a sign of weakness, of not measuring up. As we approach the holidays and coupled with this pandemic environment, it’s ok not to feel ok. There are many resources available to assist. It’s not a stigma to reach out. It’s definitely not a sign of weakness but of strength. The personal courage it takes to seek help; if not for you, for your loved ones. Contact your local hospital or clinic, a non-profit that offers this type of resource, place of worship or support group.
And if you’re employed, seek out the Employment Assistance Program. EAP is a free, voluntary, and confidential program that helps employees (including. managers) work through various life challenges that may adversely affect job performance, health, or personal well-being to optimize an organization’s success. It is offered to Federal Employees as well as Corporate America.
There’s also free, confidential support for Veterans in crisis and their families and friends. Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or text to 838255.
Nothing is ever as bad as it seems. Just keep moving to the next checkpoint. There’s always light ahead.
What’s your resilience superpower(s)?
Welcome to this blog. In this series, we will reminisce about that we did not think we would ever miss before we got out; hopefully with a good dose of healthy humor. With tips, tricks and secrets to reintegrating back to the civilian workforce and with the proper mindset. And we welcome positive feedback from those of us who have already made the transition to the real world. xUSAmp is a group of determined veterans, allies and family members who have worked in corporate HR and specialize in preparing veterans and military spouses to transition to corporate America.