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Why do so many veterans and athletes struggle to adjust to ‘the next chapter’?

  • mqaddison-black
  • Apr 14
  • 2 min read

Many of my clients have come to me when they have struggled to make the transition into a second career. It’s not a matter of willpower or commitment. These men and women have determination in spades and strong track records of high performance at elite standards. It is about a loss of identity (identity discontinuity). One client described their experience succinctly:

 

“…it feels like I am having to re-write my genetic code and I don’t know even know where to begin”.

 

Enter stage left: ‘Identity Fusion Theory’

[Swann, Jetten, Gomez, Whitehouse & Bastian, 2012].

 

BIG HANDS / small map:

 

Rather than just joining a group because you like what it represents, you build your entire sense of self around it… The group becomes your home, your family and you become the group. This is the key distinction of 'Identity Fusion Theory' from ‘Social Identity Theory’.

 

Identity Fusion Theory sees the values and responsibilities of a group internalised into the construct of self. This is a critical distinction as it highlights a visceral connection whereby we seek to personify and embody the values of our ‘in group’. More than just being a part of the group, we believe ourselves to BE the group. This is a huge amount of cognitive and emotional investment and the impacts should not be underestimated as this is often a key cause of struggle when transitioning into a second career.

 

Identity Fusion Theory is almost an unwritten requirement of service where we are called upon to give all of ourselves to a cause. You weren’t wrong to do it, but now that you have elected to move on, you should consider the possible impacts and prepare accordingly.

 

Upon transition:

‘Identity Fusion Theory’ posits a loss of self…

 

So what????

 

The dedication you put into your former career required you to define yourself by what you did, and your success meant that others defined you by it too. You felt responsible for the success of your previous ‘in group’ showcasing your professional dedication… Now you have a self-elected opportunity to start again and redefine who and what you want to be. Don’t rush. Choose wisely.

 

It is increasingly common for companies to offer bespoke transition pathways for both veterans and athletes. The good news here is that the soft skills and value offered by veterans and athletes is increasingly recognised in the corporate world and can be monetised. Perhaps this is a good time to ask how much of yourself you want to invest into your next career? Would you rather be defined by what you do, or who you are whilst doing it?

 

Finally, you are not alone. If you are struggling, seek help.

Samaritans UK: 0808 175 3075

Combat Stress: 0800 138 1619

The Veterans Gateway: 0808 802 1212




 
 
 

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