What happens when the one thing you rely on to keep you on track lets you down? For me, it was an alarm clock—or rather, the lack of one.

It was 5:30 AM, and the world outside was still shrouded in darkness. The morning was supposed to be routine: get up, check the kids’ schoolwork, pack lunches, and then head to my small office to get some work done. But that morning, something felt off. I had woken up in a panic, and when I glanced at the clock, I realized why: it was already 7:00 AM.

I scrambled to get ready, rushing around to catch up on everything I had missed. As I was walking out the door, I nearly bumped into a stranger. He was standing there, outside my house, on the curb, holding a clipboard in one hand and a coffee cup in the other.

“Are you Ms. Veteran Affairs?” he asked, his voice calm but assertive.

I looked at him in confusion. “I’m sorry, do I know you?”

“No, but I’m a veteran, and I’ve heard about your work supporting veterans and their families. I need your help.”

That was the beginning of it all. We weren’t in a coffee shop. We weren’t in a community center or a military base. We were right there, on my doorstep, in the middle of my chaotic morning. The world hadn’t stopped for either of us—he was a veteran who had recently left the military and had been struggling to figure out his next steps. And I had been living my own post-military journey, offering guidance to others, but never quite prepared for someone to come to me for help, like this.

The Challenges of Transition

As we sat down, he explained how, after years of service, he felt completely lost in the civilian world. “I’ve always been good at following orders, working with a team, and getting the job done,” he said. “But now, I don’t know where to start. I thought I’d be able to find my footing quickly, but the whole process feels like a maze.”

I couldn’t help but sympathize. The transition from military life to civilian life isn’t easy for anyone, but it’s even more daunting when you’ve spent years of your life in a structured, regimented environment. The civilian world often feels like a free-for-all in comparison, and the struggle to adapt can be overwhelming.

“I understand what you’re going through,” I said, leaning forward. “I’ve been there. But the good news is, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.”

Veteran-Owned Businesses: The Key to Freedom

It didn’t take long for the conversation to shift toward what I believed to be the best path for many veterans—starting their own businesses. I’ve seen firsthand how veterans bring unique qualities to the table: discipline, leadership, and resilience. These are the same qualities that can help them succeed as entrepreneurs.

“Have you thought about starting your own business?” I asked.

He paused, looking uncertain. “I don’t even know where to begin. I’ve never run a business before.”

“Neither had I,” I replied. “But look at the skills you’ve already developed. You’ve been trained to lead, to solve problems, and to think on your feet. Those qualities are invaluable in the business world.”

He was intrigued but still unsure. That’s when I shared the tips that had helped me and many others:

Tip #1: Leverage Your Military Skills
The military teaches you skills that are directly transferable to entrepreneurship. Leadership, time management, and working under pressure are all assets you’ve already developed. When you step into the business world, don’t discount these skills—they’re your foundation.

Tip #2: Start Small, Think Big
Many veterans feel pressure to dive into a large-scale business right away. But I always say, start small. Focus on an area where you already have expertise or a passion. Build a client base, refine your products or services, and then scale up as you grow more comfortable. It’s not about jumping into the deep end without a plan—it’s about laying the right groundwork.

Tip #3: Build Your Network
The network of fellow veterans is one of the most valuable resources you can tap into. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help or guidance. There are numerous veteran entrepreneurship programs, mentorship opportunities, and community networks that can give you the support you need to succeed.

Tip #4: Know Your Financial Options
Starting a business isn’t cheap, and it can be hard to find funding. But as a veteran, you have access to grants and loans specifically designed for you. The SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program, the Veterans Advantage Program, and other funding resources are available to help you get started.

Tip #5: Expect Ups and Downs
Entrepreneurship isn’t a smooth ride—it’s full of bumps, detours, and setbacks. The good news is that the resilience you’ve gained from military service will help you weather these storms. Keep pushing forward, and remember that each setback is a lesson, not a failure.

Moving Forward, Together

By the time our conversation ended, I could see a spark of hope in his eyes. It wasn’t just about starting a business—it was about taking control of his future. And while the road ahead would be filled with challenges, I knew he had what it took to succeed.

As he stood up to leave, he turned back and said, “Thank you. I think I finally know what I need to do.”

I smiled. “You’re welcome. And remember, you’re not alone in this. You’ve got a whole community of veterans who have your back.”

Reminders from Ms. Veteran Affairs

As I watched him walk away that day, I knew that this conversation was only the beginning of a long journey—one that would ultimately lead him to discover the true potential of his own strength and determination. And just like that, I was reminded of why I do what I do: to help veterans realize they’re capable of achieving far more than they ever imagined.

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