Turn UP your Sunshine

When I was in the Marine Corps, leaders told me on more than one occasion that I should turn down the “sunshine” (enthusiasm and optimism).

Some would say you don't look like a Marine or you are too happy to be a Marine. I don't know if these people meant it this way but I took it to mean, you don't fit our idea of a Marine.

I also had some incredible leaders who just saw a Marine and didn't care that I was born with a little more “sunshine“ inside me than others.

Now, I have retired and transitioned into a new role as an entrepreneur. I find that this "sunshine" isn’t the liability it was in uniform. Rather, it is turning out to be a real asset in this new environment.

When you depart the ranks, just remember that some of the traits and qualities that made you successful in the service may not translate well into the civilian world. A stern or intimidating demeanor can now be viewed as a liability in the business world.

Make time to talk to people who have successfully transitioned into the civilian world and ask for honest feedback in areas like this you need to work on.

For those of you transitioning, put away the knife hand and turn up the sunshine!