Even if your dream is to follow the sun, a successful transition to civilian life takes focus and a plan. In many ways, the transition is similar to preparing for an overseas assignment, which often requires you to learn a new country's history, climate, customs, currency and language. Sometimes, a guide or host-family is needed to help you get started. This type of preparation is akin to what you'll need for a successful transition to civilian life. Before leaving the military, here are seven guidelines to consider:

1. Assessment
   Give yourself a good 12 to 18 months to assess and plan your future. Start by asking yourself what you want to do -- and dream a little. Then, take your dreams seriously, as these will guide your direction and make your next steps (such as developing a resume, activating a network of contacts and/or enrolling in short-term courses/certification programs that match your new career goals) easier.

2. Develop a plan
   Utilize career-planning services to help you with your transition. The public-affairs office at your base or duty station should have referrals to available services. Or, check out services offered to preretirement military and their families through The Retired Officers Association (TROA). If you prefer to hire a private-practice career counselor, contact the National Board for Certified Counselors for a referral in your area.

3. Learn the language of the civilian world
   Avoid military jargon and begin to think like a civilian, particularly when writing your resume and cover letters. For instance, instead of saying, "I will be there at 1500 hours," say, "I will be there at 3:00 p.m." The one exception is for security clearances; include these, since they indicate trustworthiness.

4. Write a focused and functional resume
   Develop a focused and functional resume, one that describes accomplishments rather than lists your military titles. Instead of writing "commanded Battalion X," describe your experience in management terms, such as "personnel management," "budget planning," "profit and loss" and "supervisory/leadership experience." This way you will translate military experience/terminology into the equivalent corporate or nonprofit terms that prospective civilian employers will recognize and understand.

5. Network and campaign for what you want
   Make a list of former military colleagues who are now in the civilian world and where they work. Also include:
   • Civilian neighbors and business people you've met throughout your moves and relocations. For example, you might find people on your Christmas card list who will be willing to help you.
   • Classmates and former instructors in the civilian and military communities.
   • Bankers, accountants, community volunteers, people with whom you socialize, etc.

6. Join professional associations and groups.
   By joining and participating in professional associations and groups, you will demonstrate your seriousness about making a change. You will also learn about the latest changes and trends in your new field of interest. In addition, membership will provide easy access to people in the know and allow you to tap job openings available only to members.

7. Charge…risk…go for it!
   Taking risks and charging ahead are familiar military concepts, consistent with the military's mission and training in mental and physical fitness. Draw upon your strengths and integrate and utilize the best of these attitudes to reach your new goals for career fitness in civilian life.