Episode #36:

Accepting Change and Leading with Gratitude – Even in the Face of Traumatic Events with Justin Constantine

Justin Constantine joined the Marines as a JAG officer right out of law school. He served on active duty for 6 years, became a Reservist, and volunteered for deployment as a Civil Affairs team leader attached to an infantry division. During a combat patrol, Justin was shot by a sniper and pronounced killed in action—yet, he lived, helped by many quick-thinking service members and medical professionals. He returned to service, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2013. Justin has authored 2 books, worked as a public speaker, co-founded the nonprofit networking organization, Veteran Success Resource Group, and more. In 2020, he was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer. He changed his health and habits, and he does well today with an attitude of gratitude, openness to change and willingness to ask for help.

Lessons Learned:

• It is understandable to be scared by the transition process, it is all new to you. Planning, asking for help and using resources available to you are all great ways to overcome this fear.
• You are highly trained, better-resourced, show up to work on-time and drug-free. That makes you a standout in the civilian world.
• You can develop and implement plans, and you can take orders. That makes you a valuable leader.
• Lean on your most trusted relationships, create dreams and follow through with them.
• No one is an island. Don't be afraid to ask for help, but be clear about what you need help with.
• Identify what brings joy to your life.
• You’re stronger than you think you are.
• Change is opportunity. It’s good, and you can’t progress in life without it.
• Your integrity is everything.
• Consider implementing a few of Justin’s lessons learned at the end! He has transformed his health that has been key to his fight against cancer after his diagnosis in 2020.
• You may find these resources helpful:
  • https://yourjobpath.com JobPath, a workforce development platform that helps you gain relevant skills you might not have needed or used in the military.
  • veteransuccessgroup.org Veteran Success Resource Group is a 501(c)3 non-profit that hosts unique Bourbiz networking events for veterans. You can find details at www.bourbiz.com.
  • https://tedxbeaconstreet.com/speakers/justin-constantine/justinconstantine.com
• You can connect with Justin on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinconstantine1/