Empowering Veteran Transition: A Conversation with Abigail G. Manning
Abigail G. ManningThe journey from military service to civilian life can be one of the most challenging periods in a veteran’s life. The veteran transition process involves redefining identity, adjusting to a new routine, and overcoming uncertainty. Many veterans struggle with self-doubt, finding purpose, and adapting to the civilian workforce. In a recent episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sat down with Abigail G. Manning, founder of Create Awareness...Change Lives, Inc., to discuss her groundbreaking work in helping veterans through their journey.
Abigail, a mindset coach, empowerment speaker, and workshop instructor, has developed tools such as Purple Threads and Authentic Health to help individuals recognize and overcome limiting beliefs while creating a fulfilling post-military life. With a background in cognitive communication and behavioral studies, she has dedicated her career to helping veterans build resilience and regain confidence during their transition.
Understanding Purple Threads in Transition
One of the key themes Abigail introduced is the concept of Purple Threads—limiting personal thoughts that stem from past trauma or negative experiences. These thoughts can become ingrained, affecting how veterans think, act, and make decisions during their veteran transition.
Abigail shared her personal story of overcoming childhood trauma, domestic violence, and dyslexia. Instead of allowing these challenges to define her, she used them as learning opportunities. Today, she helps others identify and unravel their own Purple Threads, replacing them with empowering beliefs.
“You don’t even realize these limiting beliefs are there until you take a step back and question them,” Abigail explained. “Once you recognize them, you can start to rewire your mindset and take control of your own story.”
For veterans, Purple Threads often manifest as doubts about their ability to succeed in civilian careers or questions about their self-worth outside the military. Abigail’s approach provides a structured way to acknowledge these fears and transition with confidence.
Authentic Health: A Holistic Approach to Transition
Another powerful concept Abigail introduced is Authentic Health, a program designed to help individuals develop well-being in multiple areas, including mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and financial health. The veteran transition is about more than just getting a new job—it’s about creating a sustainable and fulfilling civilian life.
Abigail encourages veterans to reflect on questions such as:
Am I mentally prepared for this transition?
Am I allowing myself to acknowledge and process emotions?
Am I maintaining physical health through proper nutrition and exercise?
Am I creating meaningful relationships and support networks?
Am I setting financial goals that align with my future aspirations?
For many veterans, veteran transition involves shifting focus from military duty to personal well-being. Addressing these areas holistically can make the process smoother and more successful.
Overcoming Fear in Transition
Fear is one of the biggest barriers in veteran transition. Many veterans fear the unknown, failure, or losing their sense of purpose. Abigail’s advice? Acknowledge the fear, but don’t let it control you.
“When fear raises its ugly head, say, ‘There you are. I knew you were coming. You’ve got nothing on me,’” Abigail shared. “Then, move forward.”
Veterans have already conquered high-stress situations, made life-and-death decisions, and faced extreme conditions. Veteran transition requires the same resilience and adaptability. By recognizing fear as a natural response and reframing it as motivation, veterans can take control of their transition journey with confidence.
Building Trust and Connection in Transition
Abigail also emphasized the importance of trust in the veteran transition process—both in others and in oneself. She shared an acronym for trust:
Truth
Respect
Unity
Safety
Transparency
Veterans often struggle with trust, as military culture emphasizes discipline, mission focus, and emotional resilience. However, in civilian life, personal and professional success depends on building relationships based on trust. Engaging in open conversations, networking, and finding mentorship can make a significant difference in the veteran transition process.
Abigail’s Impact on the Military Community
Although Abigail is a civilian, she has developed a strong connection with the military community through her work. She has coached special operators, worked with cadets at the Air Force Academy, and even conducted workshops at the Pentagon. Her ability to connect with veterans stems from her authenticity and action-oriented approach.
Many veterans struggle to trust civilian coaches, but Abigail’s focus on practical, real-world strategies rather than abstract concepts has earned her credibility and respect within the community. Her methods are data-driven, relatable, and effective, making her a valuable resource for those going through veteran transition.
Resources for a Smooth Transition
Abigail offers multiple resources to support veterans as they navigate their transition:
One-on-One Coaching – Personalized coaching sessions to help veterans identify their strengths, set goals, and develop actionable strategies.
Workshops and Speaking Engagements – Interactive sessions that provide veterans with the tools they need for a successful veteran transition.
Online Course: Authentic Health – A 90-minute self-paced program that covers mental and emotional well-being, helping veterans build resilience and transition successfully.
As a special offer for Vet SOS listeners, Abigail has provided 10 free passes to her Authentic Health online course. Tune into the podcast to find out how to claim yours!
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Transition Journey
Abigail G. Manning’s insights provide a valuable framework for navigating veteran transition with confidence and resilience. Whether it’s overcoming fear, addressing limiting beliefs, or creating a healthy and balanced life, her work is a powerful resource for veterans at all stages of transition.
The key takeaway? Veterans have the power to shape their own transition. By identifying and eliminating Purple Threads, embracing Authentic Health, and building a strong support network, veterans can step into this next phase of life with purpose and confidence.
For those currently in transition, remember: Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline.
📌 Connect with Abigail: AbigailGManning.com
📌 Follow Vet SOS on social media for more veteran transition resources and insights.
