Catching Up: Lessons from the Last Few Months
Some seasons of life feel like they pass in the blink of an eye, while others stretch long with anticipation. Lately, I’ve been living in both. The past few months have been filled with milestones, preparation, and reflection—all while keeping up with the demands of work, family, and my degree.
In December 2024, I hit my 20-year mark in the Navy, a moment that brought both pride and deep reflection. I also celebrated 19 years of marriage, a reminder of the strength, growth, and partnership that have carried Adine and me through life’s highs and lows.
Beyond personal milestones, this past November’s U.S. presidential election and the January inauguration signaled another kind of transition—one that, regardless of political affiliation, always brings changes to legislation, policies, and regulations. As a future therapist, I’m aware that shifts in government can influence the work we do, from mental health policies to insurance regulations. Just as with personal transitions, professional growth means staying adaptable, informed, and reflective about how change impacts both individuals and the systems around them.
Lessons from Transition
1. Change Brings Reflection—Whether Invited or Not
Retirement from the Navy, career changes, and national shifts all bring moments of contemplation. What’s next? What needs to be adjusted? How do I approach what’s ahead with clarity and purpose? These questions have been constant companions lately, and while the answers aren’t always immediate, taking the time to reflect has been a necessary part of the process.
2. Small Steps Make Big Changes Manageable
Leaving the military isn’t just about reaching an end date—it’s about actively preparing for what comes next. Resume writing, researching internships, and mapping out career possibilities have been a major focus. Every decision now is about setting a foundation for the future, ensuring that I step into the field of Marriage and Family Therapy with clarity and readiness.
3. Decluttering Isn’t Just Physical—It’s Mental, Too
Alongside career prep, house cleaning and decluttering have become a tangible way to prepare for the move ahead. Sorting through years of accumulated belongings has been both nostalgic and liberating—a reminder of how much life we’ve packed into the past two decades. But beyond the physical, decluttering also applies to mindset and priorities—letting go of what no longer serves and making room for what’s next.
4. Balance is a Moving Target
Between full-time work, degree requirements, and family life, balance is something I’m always working to refine. Family time has remained a top priority, and I’ve been reminded that being present is often more important than being “productive.” The moments spent with my kids, sharing a meal with Adine, or just stepping away for a breather have been just as valuable as crossing off tasks from the to-do list.
Looking Ahead
As I step into the next phase of this transition, I’m approaching it with a mix of reflection, gratitude, and anticipation. There’s still a lot of work to do, but there’s also a lot to look forward to. From wrapping up my degree to preparing for the move, each step forward is a piece of a bigger journey.
Call to Action
Have you ever stepped back from something and come back with fresh energy? How did it change your approach? Let me know your experience in the comments!