If you’ve recently returned home from active duty military service, you may be looking for a fresh start. While it’s always difficult to reacclimate to being home after a long trip, veterans face unique challenges as a result of their previous life experiences. That being said, just because you’re a veteran doesn’t mean that you can’t turn over a new leaf. Here are five ways that veterans looking to start over can begin to build a new life at home.
Veterans franchising is an appealing option for many servicemen or women with an entrepreneur’s heart and mind. Running a business takes sound judgment and careful strategy, both of which are qualities that you fostered in the military. Especially if you like the idea of giving back to your community, picking a franchise that fills a need can be a great way to align your business and job with your values.
For example, you may want to open a UPS Store if you’ve noticed that your city or town doesn’t have a lot of courier services. Best of all, most franchises like the UPS Store offer discounts and funding assistance for veterans which can help lower the barrier for entry.
If you relied on your position in the military for health coverage, you’ll want to make sure that you get insured when you return home. This is especially important if you sustained an injury during your service that still affects your day to day life. Shop around for private health insurance plans online if you want to find a good quote for health coverage quickly and efficiently.
Comparing health insurance quotes online allows you to conveniently weigh the pros and cons of different deductibles, premiums, and out of pocket maximums. You can even compare the benefits and drawbacks of HMO or PPO plans and see what network of physicians you’d be able to see.
One other reason that you might want solid health insurance is that you’re seeing a therapist when you return home. Therapy has a place in everyone’s life as a form of maintenance, and veterans are no different. In fact, because of the difference in experiences, you may now have as a vet, talking to someone who has expertise working with veterans can be incredibly beneficial.
From helping you acclimate to life back home to finding further ways to find fulfillment and offering career advice, having a therapist in your corner can be a major boon if you’ve served.
Beyond speaking with a therapist, there’s also value in making time for your family when you return home. Your family will be thrilled to see you home safe and sound and could offer you the support you need to take a risk or make a big career move.
Knowing that you have a solid relationship with your spouse, kids, parents, and siblings can go a long way in serving as the foundation you need to take the next step in your life. Don’t neglect to spend time reconnecting with these people in your life when you return from serving in the military.
Another way to find support while trying new things is to take up a new hobby. Hobbies come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so there are plenty of ways to find a social hobby that doesn’t cost a lot of money.
Intramural sports are one popular option if you’re trying to meet new people, but it can be just as helpful to take up a solitary hobby like brewing beer or painting, too. Ultimately, it’s important to find a hobby that gives you purpose and a sense of fulfillment.
