There comes a point at every base where the “new place excitement” starts to wear off. You might not realize anything feels different, but the days feel slow yet busy. You don’t hate the base; you feel indifferent to it. So what do you do to break up the mid-station doldrums? Here are our best tips.
Make a local bucket list!
Is the world’s largest ball of paint within driving distance of you? What about a local alligator or wildlife sanctuary? Does your area have a theatre? Are you interested in symphonies, ballets, or plays? You might be surprised what is not only in your city but what is possible with a three-hour road trip. Think like a tourist, and Google what to do in your town. Write down everything you find that creates a little spark in your heart. Even if the Corn Palace fails to be your favorite place, you get fun pictures and great memories by crossing “try a corn-flavored lollipop” off your list.
Take a vacation.
Maybe you haven’t clicked with anyone on base, work has been overwhelming, and you just want to get away. Could you plan a vacation? Take a road trip to see family, a weekend camping, or go on the dream cruise you’ve always discussed if you live near the coast. Don’t let your ‘leave’ go to waste.
Go after your life goals.
Military life can fly by, so see if you can start moving towards your goals at this base. Do you want to learn to weave? If you are near your local Rennaissance Faire, you might be able to find a teacher. Always wanted to learn Spanish? Living in the south is the perfect place to begin! Your base’s physical location may lend itself to helping you go after your back-burner dreams. Pull out your life goals list and see what this base can offer you growth-wise!
Revamp your schedule.
You might feel in a rut because you aren’t finding as much pleasure in your daily life. What would bring you joy? When you arrived at your base, did you say, “Oh, I can’t wait to go hiking here!” or “We should go to the ocean once a week since we are close.” but it happened once and then stopped? Mid-station doldrums is your chance to look at your schedule, purge what doesn’t feel supportive, and add in what sounds fun. Enjoy your new additions, whether a silent disco, monthly beach days or attending weekly bingo!
Mid-station doldrums happen for most military members and families, so take back control and shift into mid-station joy by trying one of our ideas above!