Whether you’re a young person dreaming of serving in the U.S. military or a veteran stepping into civilian life, one question unites you: How can I serve my true purpose? As a veteran and attorney who’s navigated both military service and a civilian career in privacy and cybersecurity law, I’ve learned that continuous development of your genuine purpose is the compass that guides you through tough transitions. Purpose is the backbone of confidence and success. At Stars, Stripes & Self, we are here to help you find that compass, whether you’re preparing for boot camp or building a new career after service.
Typically, purpose is thought of as a glamorous revelation that comes to us in a moment of clarity. It is romanticized as destiny and once it appears, it is set in stone. The job is done. If only it were that easy. The key is to reframe the concept of purpose entirely – not as a cosmic destiny that appears effortlessly, but as the struggles we choose to embrace. Feeling of making a difference, even in some small way will create a sense of importance and purpose. Snowball effect, don’t put pressure on some grand “a-ha” moment where a lightbulb goes off once and you’re done forever.
Lesson 1: Purpose Is About Action, Not Destiny
Purpose isn’t a mystical calling you uncover while “eating Doritos on your couch.” It doesn’t come to you one day after meditation on a beach… Purpose can change… Be fluid, take years to forge and build (Samurai Sword comparison).
It’s about getting up and doing what feels important over and over again. For aspiring service members, this means taking steps toward enlistment—researching branches, preparing for the ASVAB, or meeting a recruiter. Veterans, it’s about translating your military skills into civilian roles that resonate with your personal values.
Here’s are some initial steps to take:
For Aspiring Servicemembers:
If you’re a teenager or young adult considering the military, you might feel overwhelmed by choices: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force, or Coast Guard? Combat roles, cyber operations, or medical fields? The key is aligning your skills and passions with a role that gives you sufficient room for growth and meaningful contribution.
- Assess Your Strengths: Take a skills inventory. Are you a tech whiz eyeing developments in AI and cybersecurity (like I did in my legal career)? An aspiring pilot fascinated by taking to the skies? Or a natural leader suited for officer training? Tools like the ASVAB can help, but self-reflection is just as powerful. DOWNLOAD GUIDE THRU NEWSLETTER MORE & Link to “Military Career Starter Guide”
- Research Branches and Roles: Each branch has unique cultures and opportunities. For example, the Air Force excels in tech-heavy roles, while the Marines emphasize leadership and grit. Check out my free “Military Career Starter Guide” [link to lead magnet] for a breakdown. VISIT A RECRUITER
- Talk to Veterans: Connect with service members to hear real stories. Their insights can reveal whether a role feels like a calling or just a job.
- Action: Write down one career goal (e.g., “Join the Air Force as a cyber specialist” or “Land a project management role”). Take one step today, like downloading our Military Career Starter Guide or Veteran Resume Template.
For Veterans:
Leaving the military can feel like losing a piece of yourself. I remember the challenge of transitioning from a structured military life to the uncertainty of civilian work. Many veterans struggle with purpose, mental health, or translating skills to new careers. Here’s how to find your footing:
- Reflect on Your Service: Your military experience—leadership, discipline, teamwork—is a goldmine. For example, my logistics training helped me excel in legal project management. Journal about what you loved most in the military to uncover your civilian purpose.
- Translate Your Skills: Roles like cybersecurity, project management, or healthcare value military skills. As a privacy lawyer, I’ve seen veterans thrive in compliance-heavy fields. My free “Veteran Resume Template” [link to lead magnet] shows you how to pitch your experience. TAPS NOT ENOUGH
- Address Mental Health: If PTSD or stress feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Resources like the VA’s mental health services or peer groups can help. Try a 10-minute mindfulness practice daily—it worked for me during my transition.
Lesson 2: Choose Your Struggle Wisely
Finite time on earth, “what can I do with my limited time that is important?” Purpose comes from the pain you’re willing to endure. “What pain do you want in your life?” Aspiring service members, this might mean the grueling hours of basic training or studying for the ASVAB to secure a dream role. Veterans, it could be the effort of networking or rewriting your resume to reflect your military leadership. The struggles you choose define your success. SACRIFICE – ADD MORE
Action: Identify one challenge you’re willing to face (e.g., “I’ll train daily for the Army fitness test” or “I’ll revise my resume twice with AI or a virtual assistant”).
Lesson 3: Embrace the Process, Not Just the Outcome
Everyone wants to be a rock star on a big stage with thousands of fans screaming their name. Almost nobody is willing to put in decades of practicing until they have blisters on their hands, live out of a van for years on end, and sleep in two bedroom hotel rooms with four other people. The idea of lasting and earned success, in any area, will require a daily grind to hone skills and develop competency. If you want the benefits and the accolades that come with success, you have to accept the costs. You cannot only love the result of selling out crowded arenas to adoring fans, you must embrace the lonely hours of practicing basic chords and scales by yourself.
You must find joy in the journey—whether it’s mastering a military skill or navigating civilian job interviews. Purpose grows through trial and error, not instant success that is often fleeting.
Action: Try a new activity this week, like attending a military career fair or updating your LinkedIn profile. Reflect on what feels meaningful. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly tips to stay on track. [Link to newsletter]
Your Purpose Starts Today
Our struggles determine our successes. Whether you’re dreaming of a military career or building a civilian future, your purpose is shaped by the actions you take now. At Stars, Stripes & Self, we’re here to help you choose your path with confidence, just as I’ve navigated my journey from military service to cybersecurity law.
Ready to Find Your Purpose?
- Download our free Military Career Starter Guide or Veteran Resume Template to kickstart your journey. [Link to lead magnet]
- Subscribe to our newsletter for veteran-led tips and inspiration. [Link to newsletter]
About Stars, Stripes & Self: Founded by a veteran and attorney, we empower military and veteran communities through delivering purpose-driven guidance. Patriotism and Personal Growth remain the North Stars of this endeavor.
