It has happened. Sequestration, that is. So, what the heck does that mean? Well, I’m not going to bore you with details, numbers and interviews with other spouses to scare you further with what you already know: At least for now… we’re going to have to adjust to doing more with less.
I’ve thought about what we do to prepare, and I just don’t have all the answers. And, I don’t think anyone else does either. But here are a few places to start.
- Pay careful attention to what is going on in your unit. Ask questions, make sure you know what things mean to you and your family. Ships docking means what to YOU exactly? Is your husband home now, or joining another command? Don’t ignore message traffic and updates from command leadership.
- Ask your base to offer a town hall on what each installation may/may not face and when to expect things to actually be “felt.”
- If you are getting forced out, or furloughed, evaluate your pay NOW. Do not delay. Visit financial counselors and get a handle on what options you have. Can you get a job? Can your spouse moonlight? What are rules about that?
- If childcare is going to be YOUR issue, work out alternate arrangements. You will not be the only one so work out creative solutions with your fellow spouses. Watch theirs today, they watch your tomorrow. GET smart and work it out. It’ll hurt, but it’ll hurt a lot less if you are sharing the pain.
- Educate yourself. What does this mean to your service? Learn what is actually happening, but realize things may change later. So, don’t assume what is true today will be true a month from now.
- If you are worried about the cuts impacting pay, put your mind at ease by learning all you can about YOUR family budget. Where can you cut back? Can you cut back? BE honest and realistic about what could happen. Be prepared to roll with it. Learn your options and what is available to you. Evaluate the real wants and needs for your family.
- Do. Not. Wait. Until the last minute to know what is happening to you and your family. Start planning now. You may not need it later, but you might be much better off for doing it.
- Remember. You’re a military spouse. You can do this.
We’ll do our best to provide the best information that we can. We are here for you and hoping things change too. But, we’re not blind such that we can pretend this isn’t happening. It is. So, let’s buckle in and get started on how the hell we’re gettin’ out of here.