After Making the Leap: Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Post-Government Transition
Transitioning from a government or military role into the civilian workforce or entrepreneurship is a monumental shift that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. I remember my own transition from the Federal Government nearly a decade ago. It feels like it was just yesterday. One of the most jarring experiences after making the leap is the feeling of being cut off.
Transitioning from a government or military role into the civilian workforce or entrepreneurship is a monumental shift that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. I remember my own transition from the Federal Government nearly a decade ago. It feels like it was just yesterday. One of the most jarring experiences after making the leap is the feeling of being cut off. Suddenly, you find yourself outside the familiar walls of your former workplace, unable to access the building even for a simple lunch. Due to being in a cooling-off period that was required of me, I had to be careful what I discussed with former coworkers when I did see them. This physical separation can heighten the sense of isolation and make the transition feel even more real and daunting.
In the government and military sectors, socialization happens seamlessly as part of the workday. We socialize at work while we work. The abrupt end to these daily interactions can leave a void. Many who transition feel an acute sense of emptiness as they miss the camaraderie and spontaneous conversations that were a staple of their daily routine. This newfound emptiness can be unsettling. The bustling environment of a government office or military base is replaced by a quieter, sometimes solitary civilian work setting or the focused grind of entrepreneurship. The contrast can be stark, and it
takes time to adjust to this new normal.
Perhaps the most profound challenge is the loss of a sense of purpose. In your previous role, your work was often tied to a larger mission, providing clear motivation to accomplish tasks. Transitioning to a civilian role or starting a business can feel like stepping into an undefined space where you must rediscover or redefine your purpose. Despite these challenges, it’s important to remember that this transition is a journey
filled with opportunities for growth and reinvention. Building a support network, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking out new social and professional
connections can help mitigate these feelings of isolation and loss.
At Fedpreneur, we understand these challenges and are here to support you through this transition. Whether you are starting your own business or stepping into a new civilian role, our community and resources are designed to help you navigate this journey successfully.
Curious to delve deeper into the world of Fedpreneur? Don't miss our upcoming panel event, "Navigating Adversity and Embracing New Opportunities," on Thursday, February 27th, 2025. Discover firsthand insights and practical advice from those who have successfully made the transition. Secure your spot and join us for an afternoon of inspiration and networking. Visit Fedpreneur Events to sign up today!
Save the following dates for future Fedpreneur meet-ups: 22 April | 4 June | 17 September | 30 October | 5 December
Your First 30, 60, 90 Days of Transition
Transitioning from a government or military role into the civilian workforce or entrepreneurship is a monumental shift that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. I remember my own transition from the Federal Government nearly a decade ago, and it feels like it was just yesterday.
Transitioning from a government or military role into the civilian workforce or entrepreneurship is a monumental shift that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. I remember my own transition from the Federal Government nearly a decade ago, and it feels like it was just yesterday.
The first 30 days are all about adjustment. As you experience lifestyle changes and redefine your identity outside of your uniform or federal ID that used to be hung from your neck, it's crucial to start networking. Reach out to former colleagues who have transitioned and begin laying the groundwork for your new career or business venture. Our recent Fedpreneur meetings emphasized leveraging your network and engaging in roundtable discussions to share experiences and gain new perspectives.
Moving into the next 30 days, the focus shifts to building momentum. Evaluate your skills, seek additional training if needed, and refine your job search or business plan. Establishing a new routine that balances work, personal time, and self-care is crucial for staying focused and productive. Attending events, such as breakfast meetings or panel discussions, can provide a platform for sharing experiences and gaining new insights from many others who have walked this road already.
By the 90-day mark, you should start feeling more settled. Whether you’ve secured a new job or are launching a business, this period involves integrating into your new role and ensuring you have a solid plan in place. Despite the excitement, transitioning comes with its fears, including job security, loss of structure, and an identity crisis. Embracing change, building a support network, and maintaining a positive mindset can help overcome these fears.
Remember, the first 90 days are just the beginning. Whether starting your own business or stepping into a new job, the journey is filled with learning and growth. At Fedpreneur, we provide a community and resources to support your journey. Let’s navigate this transition together!
Curious to delve deeper into the world of Fedpreneur? Don't miss our upcoming panel event, "Making the Change - Straight Talk about Leaving Government," on Thursday, November 21, 2024. Discover firsthand insights and practical advice from those who have successfully made the transition.
Secure your spot and join us for an evening of inspiration and networking. Visit Fedpreneur Events to sign up today!
#govcon #startup #fedpreneur
The Power of Reputation in Business
Having a good reputation based on honesty and experience can set a business apart from the competition. This principle is not just a cliché; it is a cornerstone of success in any industry, especially in government contracting.
Having a good reputation based on honesty and experience can set a business apart from the competition. This principle is not just a cliché; it is a cornerstone of success in any industry, especially in government contracting. Over the years, I have learned that reputation is more than just a buzzword—it is the bedrock upon which trust and long-term relationships are built.
Reflecting on my journey in launching our company, I recall the initial days filled with uncertainty and a steep learning curve. However, my commitment to honesty and leveraging my experience remained constant. These values have helped me navigate the complex landscape of government contracting and establish Fedpreneur as a trusted community for aspiring entrepreneurs.
In the competitive world of government contracts, having a reputation for integrity can be a game-changer. It reassures clients and partners that they are working with someone who values transparency and reliability. This trust is crucial when dealing with intricate processes and large-scale projects that require meticulous attention to detail.
Experience plays a pivotal role in building a strong reputation. It is not merely about the number of years spent in the industry but the depth of knowledge and the ability to foresee challenges and opportunities. My background in government service provided me with unique insights that I have been able to translate into actionable strategies for IT Availability, and now Fedpreneur.
At Fedpreneur, we emphasize the importance of building a reputation based on honesty and leveraging one's experience. Our community supports individuals transitioning from federal, civilian, or military roles into entrepreneurship by providing them with the tools and knowledge to succeed.
If you are contemplating starting your own business, remember that your reputation is your most valuable asset. Cultivate it with honesty, nurture it with experience, and watch how it sets you apart in the competitive landscape. Join us at Fedpreneur to learn more about how we can support your entrepreneurial journey.
Curious to delve deeper into the world of Fedpreneur? Don't miss our upcoming panel event, "Making the Change: A Straight Talk About Leaving the Government," on Thursday, November 21, 2024. Discover firsthand insights and practical advice from those who have successfully made the transition.
Secure your spot and join us for an evening of inspiration and networking. Visit Fedpreneur's Events page to register today!
Don’t Let Fear Stop You!
Have you ever dreamed of starting your own company and diving into the Government Contracting world? Many people often have reasons they believe they can't succeed, but these are just what I call “artificial barriers.”
Have you ever dreamed of starting your own company and diving into the Government Contracting world? Many people often have reasons they believe they cannot succeed, but these are just what I call “artificial barriers.” Fear might hold you back, but it does not reflect reality or your true potential. Instead of worrying about the risks of starting a company after leaving the government or military service, let us reframe the narrative. I have been in your shoes, and people often say, "Chuck, you make it look easy!"
Let us explore why these inhibitions arise and how to overcome them. The first step is defining your mission and vision. What do you intend to achieve, and do you have experience? Have you set your goals? Consider your financial resources, potential hires, and areas of expertise. Whose advice should you trust? Have you outlined a business plan? Remember, none of these steps are difficult, and there are no wrong answers. Fedpreneur is here to support you every step of the way!
Let us tackle those artificial barriers—they are just in your head, that small voice convincing you that you cannot do it.
Fear not! Fedpreneur is a community of like-minded individuals ready to assist those transitioning from federal, civilian, or military roles into entrepreneurship. We are a community of dreamers and doers, ready to assist you as you navigate the transition to entrepreneurship. Curious to learn more? Join us at our next Fedpreneur open house meet-up on 25 June from 5-7pm and let us make those dreams a reality, together! RSVP today!
So You Want to Become a Fedpreneur
Curious about Fedpreneur and what it entails? Allow me to guide you through some initial details.
A Fedpreneur is someone with a vision to establish their own company, focusing on delivering products and services to government and military contracts—ranging from federal and state levels to local authorities and the Department of Defense. Whether you're contemplating launching your business as a sole proprietor consultancy or diving into a more elaborate startup, there are crucial steps to prepare for government contract business.
Curious about Fedpreneur and what it entails? Allow me to guide you through some initial details.
A Fedpreneur is someone with a vision to establish their own company, focusing on delivering products and services to government and military contracts—ranging from federal and state levels to local authorities and the Department of Defense. Whether you're contemplating launching your business as a sole proprietor consultancy or diving into a more elaborate startup, there are crucial steps to prepare for government contract business.
Starting from creating a business name and a captivating word art or graphical logo, the initial steps are just the beginning. State-level business registration is a prerequisite for initiating the federal contracting process. Securing a federal employer identification number is crucial, and decisions on your entity type—be it a Corporation, S Corporation, or a limited liability company (LLC) —need consideration. Additionally, determining the primary Services NAICS code can be important.
Reflecting on my own journey, seeking advice from those with firsthand experience was invaluable. Crafting a company name was straightforward, but designing a logo became an exciting challenge, thanks to leveraging professional graphic services. The reasonable cost coupled with high-quality outcomes made the process enjoyable.
As the creative process unfolded, securing a domain name for an online presence became a priority. Numerous hosting platforms facilitated the quick and easy setup of my company's website with a touch of creativity.
With the foundational elements in place, networking became the next step. Leveraging existing contacts and exploring associations aligned with our services led to meaningful connections. Registering for relevant organizations and attending events proved instrumental, resulting in valuable follow-up meetings.
Now, you might be wondering, how does all this translate into tangible business results? If you're eager to learn more about Fedpreneur, stay tuned for upcoming plans and meetups. We have meet ups already scheduled! Please RSVP today!
The journey is about to get even more fascinating!
What is a Fedpreneur?
What is a Fedpreneur?
Allow me to unravel some of the mysteries for you.
A Fedpreneur is a visionary on the brink of concluding their distinguished career with the federal government or active-duty military, yearning to transition into the uncharted waters of what lies ahead. As they approach the crossroads of their governmental or military service, a myriad of possibilities unfurls before them – from starting their own business to immersing themselves in a startup venture, or seamlessly integrating into the fabric of a major corporation or small business. The beauty lies in the absence of wrong choices.
Allow me to unravel some of the mysteries for you.
A Fedpreneur is a visionary on the brink of concluding their distinguished career with the federal government or active-duty military, yearning to transition into the uncharted waters of what lies ahead. As they approach the crossroads of their governmental or military service, a myriad of possibilities unfurls before them – from starting their own business to immersing themselves in a startup venture, or seamlessly integrating into the fabric of a major corporation or small business. The beauty lies in the absence of wrong choices.
For those contemplating the exciting journey of launching their own business, a cascade of thoughts inundates their mind, for they are about to depart from the familiar cocoon of government or military life to face the challenges of the commercial world. While the initial prospect may seem daunting due to the inherent risks, it is also filled with excitement. As a Fedpreneur, the prospect of leaving behind previous roles ushers in the thrill of embracing something entirely novel. The question looms – are you fixated on the rewards or contemplating the risks? Maybe a little bit of both.
Are you longing to carve your own path and define your destiny? Alternatively, do you aspire to contribute your hard-earned expertise from your federal or military career to fuel the growth of a promising company? Perhaps you simply envision yourself as an asset within a large corporation or seek the tranquility of a sunset ride onto the horizon.
Early on, many of these seasoned professionals initially contemplate donning the hat of a consultant. What drives them? Perhaps a desire to give back, to contribute something meaningful to benefit others. While failures may mark the journey, they are merely steppingstones in the path of learning. The transition need not be arduous, thanks to Fedpreneur!
Curious to delve deeper into the world of Fedpreneur? We have meet ups already scheduled! We have meet ups already scheduled! RSVP today!
The journey is about to get even more fascinating!
Embark on Entrepreneurship: The Fedpreneur Journey Unveiled
Are you pondering how to start a business that contracts with the government, or perhaps one outside its realm? Are you a government or a US military alumnus seeking employment after your tenure? Fedpreneur is your answer, providing a community and guidance for all these scenarios.
How did I get to Fedpreneur?
Are you pondering how to start a business that contracts with the government, or perhaps one outside its realm? Are you a government or a US military alumnus seeking employment after your tenure? Fedpreneur is your answer, providing a community and guidance for all these scenarios.
How did I get to Fedpreneur?
Embarking on my post-career journey nearly a decade ago started with self-reflection and brainstorming ideas for my future. As I pondered my desire to continue supporting the government, I understood the current challenges and opportunities, I could foresee more of these coming across the horizon, and I knew I wanted to create something of value. The result? The birth of my own business. However, the journey was uncharted, and the plethora of resources available left me bewildered. It became evident that a foundational understanding of running a company was crucial before delving into entrepreneurship.
My relentless pursuit for knowledge led me to connect with seasoned entrepreneurs through various networking platforms. Armed with insights gained from interviews and consultations with these seasoned entrepreneurs, I painstakingly established the infrastructure needed to operate a business. Nine years on, as I reflect on the evolution of my venture, I am driven to assist others on a similar path.
Today, I am thrilled to unveil Fedpreneur, a community for like-minded individuals exploring opportunities in small or large businesses or venturing into entrepreneurship. The question arises: How does one transition from a federal employee or military commitment to being their own boss? Where do you find opportunities, and how do you navigate the intricate process of starting a business? Fedpreneur is not just another organization; it consolidates all the vital aspects of entrepreneurial success into one cohesive community.
If you've ever contemplated starting your own business, Fedpreneur offers a soft landing for new entrepreneurs. We provide a platform to expand your network and foster opportunities for growth. Unlike other fragmented organizations, Fedpreneur encapsulates everything you need for a successful business journey in one place.
After years of navigating the intricacies of growth, overcoming challenges, facing failures, and celebrating successes, the timing feels perfect to launch Fedpreneur. Our community, shaped by training, mentoring, and a supportive network, offers a soft landing for personnel from defense, civilian, and Intel aspiring to work in or on a business.
Curious? Join us at an upcoming meetup, where you can engage with experienced entrepreneurs, ask questions, and immerse yourself in our community of experts. Fedpreneur is not just about ideas; it's about tangible pathways to success.
Want to know more about Fedpreneur, where success isn't just a goal—it's a journey we embark on together. We have meet ups already scheduled! RSVP today!