I retired from the United States Navy in May 2018 after serving 24 years in both the enlisted and officer capacity.

For many years while on active duty, I would imagine what I would do once retired. I pondered the countless opportunities to reinvent myself and participate in all the hobbies I put off when military service came first. I am sure as you are reading, you have done this yourself.

I honestly wasn’t prepared to retire when I did, but I learned a lot during the transition process. Eventually I fully embraced this new chapter of my life, which I now affectionately call “Phase 2.” The “Now” in “Phase2Now” serves as a reminder to fully embrace the moment, and make the most of what a military retirement provides. Life isn’t over — it has only just begun.

Since the day I retired I’ve been speaking with newly retired military members who have experienced the frustration and anxiety that come with the challenges of this major life change. I want to share what I’ve learned by helping military retirees and their spouses make a smooth transition into civilian life, remain socially connected, and embrace their own Phase 2.