From Struggle to Significance: Natalie Schibell's Mission to Empower Veterans

Natalie Schibell, President of Mission to Commission, embodies the spirit of transformational leadership, turning her personal struggles into a powerful mission to empower veterans. Her journey, marked by perseverance and unwavering faith, offers profound insights into navigating career transitions, staying true to one's values, and finding purpose in helping others.

Schibell's extensive background as a 12-year Navy veteran, environmental health officer, and recruiter laid the groundwork for her unique perspective. Despite a stellar military career, her transition to civilian life was fraught with challenges. "I struggled quite a bit," she recounts, highlighting the often-overlooked difficulties veterans face in translating military skills to the civilian sector. This personal experience became the crucible for her calling: to prevent other veterans from enduring similar hardships.

Mission to Commission: A Full-Cycle Approach

Mission to Commission, her non-profit, takes a distinctive approach to veteran transition. Unlike organizations that focus solely on post-service support, Schibell advocates for a "full cycle" preparation. "The transition doesn't begin at the end. It begins when you raise your right hand," she asserts. Her philosophy emphasizes proactive planning, understanding how military occupational specialties translate to civilian roles, and addressing potential educational or technological gaps long before discharge. This foresight, she believes, equips service members with a roadmap for a successful and fulfilling post-military life.

Faith, Leadership, and Integrity

At the heart of Schibell's work is a deep integration of faith and leadership. She identifies servant leadership (Matthew 20), integrity (Proverbs 22), and the Golden Rule (Luke 6) as her guiding biblical principles. These aren't just abstract concepts; they are the bedrock of her daily interactions. "Leadership is all about lifting others, clearing all the obstacles in their path, and helping make sure they have the support that they need to thrive," she explains. This means approaching every veteran with understanding, empathy, and a non-judgmental spirit, especially those in vulnerable situations.

Her commitment to integrity is paramount, particularly when dealing with individuals at pivotal moments in their lives. "A good name is more desirable than riches," she quotes, emphasizing the importance of building trust and following through on promises. This dedication has earned her a reputation that attracts veterans through word-of-mouth and her active social media presence, where she shares valuable content and resources.

Authenticity and Purpose in Career Navigation

Schibell's advice to those navigating their careers, whether in civilian life or entrepreneurship, is profoundly personal and faith-driven: "Be your authentic self. It is okay to have your opinions and values. Do not ever compromise them." She encourages individuals to prioritize their values and seek environments where they can be happy and at peace, even if it means forging an unconventional path. Her own journey, marked by speaking up for her convictions, underscores the importance of this authenticity.

Her story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of faith in action. Natalie Schibell's Mission to Commission is not just about helping veterans find jobs; it's about guiding them to discover their authentic selves, live with integrity, and find fulfilling paths where their faith and values can flourish. Her work creates a ripple effect, empowering individuals to not only succeed but to lead lives of profound significance.

Action Steps for Your Own Transformational Journey

• Define Your Values: Clearly identify the core principles that guide your decisions and actions.
• Proactive Planning: Whether in career or personal life, anticipate challenges and create a roadmap for success.
• Embrace Servant Leadership: Look for opportunities to lift others and clear obstacles in their path.
• Cultivate Integrity: Build trust by consistently following through on your commitments.
• Be Your Authentic Self: Don't compromise your values, even when faced with opposition. Seek environments that align with who you truly are.
• Seek Peace in Your Work: Prioritize roles and environments where you can be happy and at peace, allowing your faith to integrate seamlessly with your professional life.