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Every 2.7 Years, I Reinvent Myself—Thanks to the Military

career management military family military spouse values Jun 25, 2025

Being a military spouse means being a master of reinvention.

On average, military families move every 2.7 years—and with every new duty station, I’ve had to rebuild: my network, my child care plan, my community… and my career identity.

I wasn’t just switching jobs—I was constantly re-evaluating who I wanted to be at work. What did I want more of? What had I outgrown? What was most important this time around?

It took a while, but I finally stopped looking at those pivots as disruptions and started seeing them for what they really were: invitations to realign.

 

🎯 Career Resilience Isn’t Just a Buzzword—It’s a Strategy

If you’ve ever left a job, paused your career, or taken a detour that made your résumé look a little “creative,” you’re in good company.

Here’s what I’ve learned from a life in motion:

  • Nonlinear doesn’t mean lost. Every chapter counts.
  • Your values are your anchor. When you’re clear on what matters, it’s easier to spot the right opportunities.
  • You’re not starting over—you’re starting fresh, with wisdom.

And that wisdom is worth something.

 

💡 3 Career Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner

  1. Know your deal-breaker values.
    Not just what you like at work, but what you need to feel fulfilled. I created a free worksheet to help you figure that out.

📥 Download the Your Values at Work worksheet

  1. Map your career journey.
    Sometimes your most joyful or impactful role wasn’t your highest title. Use that insight to guide what’s next.
  2. Don’t career alone.
    Whether you’re talking to mentors, sponsors, or your most honest friend, outside perspective helps you see your own brilliance more clearly.

 

🎧 Want More Support? Listen in.

These podcast episodes are full of helpful advice if you’re navigating work, money, or identity in transition:

Perfect for your next walk, drive, or coffee break.

 

💼 Why I Wrote an Entire Chapter on Career Management in a Money Book

One thing that sets How to Afford Everything apart? I didn’t just talk about budgeting and debt—I wrote a whole chapter called "Minding the Business That Pays You" to help readers treat their career as a financial tool.

In that chapter, you’ll learn:

  • How to reflect on your current job (beyond burnout)
  • Signs it’s time to make a move
  • How to make career decisions that align with your values and financial goals

It’s personal finance with a public health twist—because your job affects your money and your mental health.

📘 Get your copy of How to Afford Everything

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