October 4, 2024
Hello, hello,
Another Thursday means a brand-new blog post.
Today, I want to share something personal from exactly one year ago. I was in the process of starting my SkillBridge program. While separating from the Air Force after 8 years of service. As soon as I made the decision to transition out of the military, everything changed. Suddenly, it felt like I was juggling two full-time jobs. Staying on top of countless appointments, deadlines, and paperwork while still doing my primary duties.
It was overwhelming at times, and the stress definitely caught up with me. But by taking things one day at a time. I managed to get through it and wrap everything up the right way.
In this post, I’ll break down 3 things I didn’t expect when I was in the process of hanging up my uniform forever.
Sign up for my Newsletter below to get notified when new blog comes out!
Thank you for signing up. You'll be the first to know about new posts!
Why is military separation so hard?
Separating from the military is harder than enlisting—plain and simple. During my own military to civilian transition, I realized just how exhausting and time-consuming the separation process really is. Like most service members, I had a full-time job to manage, which made it incredibly difficult to balance my daily responsibilities while staying on top of everything required to separate properly.
What caught me off guard was how many mandatory programs you need to go through to understand the benefits you’ve earned. As a veteran, it’s on you to know what’s available—and that knowledge can make a huge difference in your post-military life. The Department of Defense does a good job trying to prepare you, offering education and tools you’ll want and need as you leave the uniform behind. At the time, it felt overwhelming and frustrating, but looking back now, I can say it was worth it.
If you’re planning to separate, my best military separation advice from a veteran is this: start early. Begin setting things up at least a year and a half in advance. Give yourself the time to handle everything properly—your future self will thank you.
You are on your own.
Experiences may vary, but for me, when I told people I was preparing for military separation, it felt like something shifted. Suddenly, it was as if no one really cared anymore. I had to figure everything out on my own, stand my ground on certain issues, and navigate the process without much guidance. The way people interacted with me changed, and while maybe I was reading too much into it — it still felt very real in the moment.
Looking back, that part of the transition was tough. Having a strong support system is crucial during this time. They’ll keep you grounded, remind you of your goals, and be there when others might distance themselves. It’s one of those hard truths about separating from the military that no one really talks about — but it matters.
It is emotional.
Whether you served for four years or twenty, you’re going to feel a wave of emotions when you start doing things for the last time. Your last PT test, your last mission, your final duty day, even your last all-hands meeting — each one hits differently once you realize they’re part of your goodbye. These moments carry weight because they’ve been part of your routine.
During the military separation process, the reality starts to sink in: you’re closing a major chapter of your life but you also opening a whole new one. You think about the camaraderie, the long nights, the inside jokes, and the unforgettable experiences — especially those shared overseas. You start to realize how much you’ve grown and changed since day one. These aren’t just tasks or milestones — they’re memories you carry forward.
Then comes that final moment — getting off base for the last time. It’s surreal. You might feel proud, anxious, even a little lost. You think about how you’ll never have to wear the uniform again, and while that can be a relief, it also brings a deep sense of finality. The structure, the mission, and the lifestyle you’ve known for years are behind you now.
Final thoughts.
Don’t be afraid to close that chapter behind you — you’ve done your part. You will do great in whatever comes next. Military separation can feel lonely and overwhelming at times, which is why it’s so important to make peace with your decision and fully commit to the path ahead. If you’re still on the fence, take time to reflect. Start preparing for what’s next — whether that’s staying in and retiring after 20 years, or stepping into civilian life with a new plan.
How you build your life after service is entirely up to you. Just remember: the military provides a strong foundation and valuable benefits that you’ve earned as a veteran. If you’re not sure where to start after separation, my personal recommendation is to go back to school. It offers structure, financial stability, and the opportunity to explore a new path. Especially, with your GI Bill, it’s already paid for.
Adjusting to civilian life after the military isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely possible. Take it one step at a time, and surround yourself with the right people. I hope this blog gave you some clarity or reassurance as you start thinking about your own journey.
Thanks for reading — you’ve got this.
Stay Connected!
I publish a new blog every Thursday. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter to stay up to date and be the first to know when a new post drops.
Have a question, want to share your experience, or just feel like connecting? Head over to the “Contact Me” page — I’m always open to hearing from you and happy to help however I can.
Next Thursday’s post: “Thinking of Enlisting? Read This First” — whether you’re on the fence or just starting to explore the idea, you won’t want to miss it.
If today’s post resonated with you or offered some guidance, consider sharing it with someone else who might benefit from it too. Whether you read, comment, or pass it along — your support truly means a lot. It helps this blog grow and reach others who are looking for honest, real-world insight into military life and beyond.
Thanks for being here and for walking this journey with me.
Very Respectfully,
Vlad Kalinin