EM3 Chandra M. Holland, U.S. Navy (1993-1996)

Military service can leave an indelible mark on a person s habits and routines. From the first day of training, certain behaviors become ingrained, shaping not only how we approach tasks but also our mindset and work ethic. Many of these habits carry over into civilian life, and for me, they have been instrumental in running my veteran-owned business and have enriched my personal life as well.

One of the most valuable habits I developed in the military was meticulous time management. The structure of military life, where every minute is accounted for, instilled in me the importance of punctuality, planning, and prioritization. In my business, I apply this habit by ensuring that projects run on schedule and that I maximize every workday. Time management helps me organize tasks effectively, meet client deadlines, and stay ahead of competitors. Additionally, being on top of my schedule means I can identify areas where I need extra resources or a more efficient workflow, which is crucial in a fast-paced business environment.

Another habit from my military days is adaptability. In the military, situations can change in an instant, requiring quick thinking and immediate responses. This ability to adjust to changing conditions has been essential in my business. Whether it s a shift in market trends, a client request, or an unexpected operational challenge, I m able to pivot effectively without losing momentum. This habit also assists me in leading my team; I encourage them to adopt the same adaptability, creating a resilient and dynamic work culture. My employees know that I value flexible thinking and that we re prepared for any challenge, which has strengthened both our team and our reputation with clients.

Discipline, another ingrained military habit, is fundamental to my business and daily life. Discipline is what keeps me going when things get tough; it s the backbone of my resilience. In running my business, discipline ensures that I don t take shortcuts or lose focus on my long-term goals, even when short-term setbacks arise. This habit translates to a dedication to quality, service, and consistency in every aspect of the business. Clients and partners trust me because they see the level of commitment and attention to detail that comes from a disciplined approach.

In my daily life, military habits influence even small things. For example, the military taught me the importance of maintaining a clean and organized space. This habit translates to an orderly home and workspace, which helps me stay mentally clear and focused. I find that when my surroundings are organized, I m better able to tackle both business challenges and personal responsibilities with a clear mind.

One habit I picked up in the military that s less conventional but still beneficial is the practice of mental decompression. The high-stress situations in military life taught me to take moments, however brief, to reset mentally. I apply this habit in business by taking a few minutes between intense meetings or during particularly demanding days to gather my thoughts. These small breaks enable me to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. This practice also keeps me from carrying the stresses of the day into my personal life, helping me be more present with family and friends.

In sum, my time in the military equipped me with habits that go beyond good time management and adaptability they are habits of resilience, discipline, and mindfulness that enable me to excel both in my business and in my personal life. These habits not only shape my success as a business owner but also help me live a balanced, purposeful life every day.

Read the Military Memories of our Runner-Ups.