When I launched jameshenderson.online, I wasn’t sure anyone would read it.
But I didn’t do it for attention—I did it for clarity.
Writing helped me make sense of life after service. It helped me process the transition into tech. And over time, it helped me connect with other veterans who felt like I did.
Now, more than ever, I believe this:
Every veteran should have a blog.
Not because you need to be a “content creator”—but because your story deserves a space. And someone out there needs to hear it.
1. Blogging Builds Self-Awareness
Putting your experiences into words forces reflection.
- What did I learn from my time in the military?
- How has that shaped my mindset in civilian life?
- What do I believe now?
It’s more than writing. It’s mental clarity.
2. It Helps You Process Transition
No one talks enough about the emotional weight of military-to-civilian life.
A blog gives you a safe space to unpack:
- The grief of losing a mission
- The anxiety of reinvention
- The joy of small wins
3. It Builds Your Personal Brand (Without the Cringe)
In the tech world, people hire people—not just resumes.
Your blog shows:
- Your growth
- Your thought process
- Your values
- Your voice
It can open doors, build community, and serve as a powerful digital portfolio.
4. It Connects You to Other Vets
I’ve had countless DMs from other veterans saying:
“I didn’t know anyone else felt this way.”
That alone makes it worth it. You’re creating a beacon for others navigating their own transitions.
5. You’ll Look Back and Be Proud
Even if no one reads it today—you’ll look back in a year and see progress.
Your blog becomes a timeline of resilience.
A record of who you were becoming.
How to Start
- Choose a simple platform: WordPress, Ghost, or even Substack
- Write once a week
- Talk like you’re telling a story over coffee
- Don’t worry about SEO—just be honest
- Hit publish
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a polished writer.
You just need a story—and the courage to share it.
Because your voice matters. And someone out there is looking for proof that they’re not alone.
Keep following mine at jameshenderson.online—where stories become bridges, and veterans find new missions in their own words.