From NC Navy Counselor to Entrepreneur: Utilizing Military Skills to Succeed in Business

Joining the military is a life-changing experience that provides individuals with opportunities to develop skills, both physically and mentally. It’s not just about basic training and learning how to survive, but also about honing advanced skills that can be used in everyday life. For those who served as a Navy Counselor in the US Navy, these skills are particularly valuable and can help them become successful entrepreneurs.

My experience as a Navy Counselor was filled with fun, learning, and growth. Basic training taught me discipline, teamwork, and communication skills, which have been instrumental in my personal and professional life. The advanced training was even more impactful, providing me with a wealth of knowledge and experience in counseling and mental health services. My job was to provide support and guidance to sailors and their families during times of stress, whether it was related to deployments, financial issues, or personal problems.

The skills I learned as a Navy Counselor have been invaluable in my transition to entrepreneurship. The first skill is leadership. As a counselor, I had to lead my team and work effectively with others to achieve common goals. In business, I have applied this skill to motivate and inspire my team, making it easier to reach our objectives.

Another skill is the ability to manage and prioritize tasks. As a counselor, I was required to balance a busy caseload and meet deadlines, which has helped me in running my own business. I can now manage my time and resources more effectively, and make informed decisions to ensure success.

The third skill is communication. Counselors must communicate clearly and effectively with their clients and colleagues, and this has translated well into my business. I now communicate more effectively with my customers and partners, leading to better relationships and results.

Problem-solving is the fourth skill that I have honed as a counselor. In this role, I was frequently faced with complex issues, and I learned how to analyze and resolve problems in a timely and effective manner. This skill has been particularly valuable in business, where I have been able to find creative solutions to challenges and overcome obstacles.

Finally, empathy is a key skill that I learned as a Navy Counselor. This has been crucial in my business, as I have been able to understand and relate to my customers, making it easier to build strong relationships and provide excellent service.

Having a successful business is not easy, but being a veteran and having the skills I learned in the Navy has been a huge advantage. I encourage other veterans to consider entrepreneurship and to sign up with Veterans First Watch. This organization provides support and resources to help veterans succeed in their new businesses, and I have found it to be incredibly valuable.

In conclusion, being a Navy Counselor has taught me valuable skills that I have been able to use in my entrepreneurial journey. Leadership, task management, communication, problem-solving, and empathy are just a few of the skills that I have developed and utilized to create a successful business. I am proud of my military service and am grateful for the opportunities it has provided me. If you are a veteran and interested in starting your own business, I encourage you to sign up with Veterans First Watch and start your journey to success.