Since leaving the Regular Force I now breathe a little easier in the fall when the succession boards are occurring, and again in the spring when posting messages are cut. The angst and stress that are brought on by the two is something I do not miss, not in the least.

What carrot will be dangled? Where are they looking to send me? Where do I want to go? How can I tap dance or stick handle things to make the two align? Can I still progress while balancing my family needs? Will the boss understand my decisions or professional aims? It’s not an easy cycle to live through. Going back to the Royal Military College last fall reminded me of that, and prompted this article as a result. I hope you enjoy.