A company’s people are truly their best differentiating factor. They define who you are, what people can expect from you, and form the culture that shapes your future – and that deserves a little celebration! So we’re starting a series called “Behind the Screens” to share a personal look at who comprises the incredible talent that makes things happen at Boldly.
In honor of Military Spouse Appreciation Day May 11th, we wanted to put together a roundup honoring a few of the incredible military spouses on our team. These team members demonstrate impeccable flexibility and adaptability and keep a positive attitude no matter the challenge, not only for their families but for their clients as well! They inspire us every day, and we hope their insight inspires you, too!
Alison, E.
1. What’s your favorite part of being a military spouse?
My favorite part of being a military spouse is being part of a community of resilient, service-minded individuals. I am consistently inspired by how everyone around me handles the challenges and uncertainties of military life, and I am blown away by the sacrifices they make in order to be of service to our country.
2. What’s one lesson from your career experience that you think people just starting out—particularly other military spouses—would benefit from knowing?
Follow your curiosities and let yourself be open to unexpected career opportunities. When my husband decided he wanted to join the Army, I was terrified to lose my professional life, but in joining Boldly I found a new interest- virtual project management. This career path is the combination of lots of the things I liked about my previous jobs plus the upside of a flexible schedule and work-from-anywhere reality. One lesson I learned is not to be afraid of trying new things in your career, you never know where they’ll lead you!
3. What are you most proud of in your work-life right now?
I recently helped one of my clients launch an online resource center with information on a very specific genetic mutation that can affect fertility, mental health and much more. To launch the resource center, I managed a team of 5 people from 5 different countries and time zones. We’ve had 600+ people from all around the world sign up for the resource center and we get letters every day thanking us for the work we do. Personally, I am really proud to be part of the project and I am grateful for the opportunity it gave me to grow professionally in my project management skills.
Nicole, W.
1. What’s your favorite part of being a military spouse?
I’ve always wanted to travel the world and have amazing adventures. Living in four very different places around the country, sunshine, humidity, snow, and the beach has certainly allowed my adventurous spirit to thrive!
2. What’s one lesson from your career experience that you think people just starting out—particularly other military spouses—would benefit from knowing?
I’ve learned to be protective of my time and allow myself a chance to say “no” when it doesn’t feel right or won’t work with my family. I’ve been afforded so many opportunities that fit me better than the ones I turned down; I’m not disappointed.
3. What are you most proud of in your work-life right now?
I’ve been able to manage to keep my skills current and relevant all while traveling the world, raising my two children and supporting my husband’s career. It takes a lot of discipline and organization, but I’m proud to say that *most* days, I seem to have it together!
Jenn, M.
1. What’s your favorite part of being a military spouse?
I love the opportunities to travel, experience life in different regions, and connect with diverse groups of people. Seeing my husband in his dress uniform is nice, too! ;)
2. What’s one lesson from your career experience that you think people just starting out—particularly other military spouses—would benefit from knowing?
New spouses shouldn’t discount anything; it’s okay to make your goals a priority. Anything is possible with some planning and flexibility.
3. What are you most proud of in your work-life right now?
Right now I’m happy to have a job that allows me to balance work and personal life and that I’m able to demonstrate that balance for our children.
Megan S.
1. What’s your favorite part of being a military spouse?
I have two favorite parts of being a military spouse; the first is the pride I feel for my husband’s willingness to make sacrifices day in and day out to defend our country. Second is being part of the military family; no matter where we move, or where my husband is sent off to, I know we will always have a built-in support system, and we get to be that support system for other families as well.
2. What’s one lesson from your career experience that you think people just starting out—particularly other military spouses—would benefit from knowing?
Flexibility and organization are key! If there’s one thing military life has taught me, it is that things don’t always go as you planned. Staying organized makes it a lot easier to adapt when changes inevitably come your way.
3. What are you most proud of in your work-life right now?
I am most proud of learning a new industry! While I’ve always had a personal interest in Interior Design, this is my first time working professionally in the industry and I’m really enjoying it!
Emiley, S.
1. What’s your favorite part of being a military spouse?
All the unique places we get to live is obviously a great part of it, but I enjoy the community of the Marine Corps as well – even if you’re a stranger, you’re family.
2. What’s one lesson from your career experience that you think people just starting out—particularly other military spouses—would benefit from knowing?
Take ownership of everything. If you make a mistake, own it. If you do something great, own it. People value people who are willing to listen and learn and making mistakes is all part of it.
3. What are you most proud of in your work-life right now?
This lifestyle affords you the opportunity to meet all kinds of people and learn how to interact with them. These are the kind of people skills that are vital to work and life.
Kali, D.
1. What’s your favorite part of being a military spouse?
2. What’s one lesson from your career experience that you think people just starting out—particularly other military spouses—would benefit from knowing?
An important lesson I’ve learned is that nothing in military life is all or nothing, though many will tell you otherwise. I’ve been able to continue my education and earn a masters and work in my field. It’s important to keep doors open rather than accept that they’re closed.
3. What are you most proud of in your work-life right now?
I am most proud that I make time every week to get outside – literally. I make sure I get out on a hike or take a short day trip to keep my mind refreshed. Sometimes it’s on a Saturday, sometimes it’s at 5 AM on a Wednesday morning before I settle in at my desk. It makes a huge difference!
