I have a slightly different episode for you this week.
Many times we feel alone and like no one, "Gets me," in this field. Sometimes, that is why we stay, "Stuck," in this field...so people, "Get" us.
I will say, getting out...feels even more lonely. At least it did for me 7.5 years ago! My cop friends didn't get it because they were still in, people who'd never been a cop definitely didn't get it, and people in the world I was forced into joining also didn't get it or care that I was a cop.
When I came up for the idea of Next Shift, I created a form to send to everyone I knew personally, who had also gotten out. That form asked several questions regarding length of service, time out of the field, initial feelings/thoughts after getting out, advice for those thinking about transitioning, and what would have made the transition easier for them/their significant other.
I got sooo much relief and validation seeing that others thought and felt the same things I did! This form is a helpful tool for me to see what thoughts/feelings officers of all different ages, experience levels, and reasons for leaving are going through and what they would find helpful. You can fill it out here.
As you can hear in this episode, you are NOT alone in how you feel or what you think about the job or the transition. There is a whole network of transitioned officers out here ready and willing to assist you through it, when the time comes.
If you haven't already...make sure you follow me on LinkedIn and on Instagram at @_nextshift_ AND @the_jessflores
If this podcast resonates with you or you feel like it could help someone else, please feel free to share it with them and/or on your social media platforms...but be sure to tag me so I can personally say THANK YOU!
Be sure to subscribe by clicking the + sign at the top and if you feel called to do so, I'd love to hear your thoughts in a review.
See you Next Shift
