Although I love to share my own experience on this blog, I know that everyone is different, and we all have our own methods for coping with deployment. Some military families stay on base and some people move into their homes. Some people have children while others look for employment to function normally. I want to share with you a lot of deployment tips that helped me during deployment. I hope this can be helpful no matter what stage you are in the deployment process.  One key element is reducing isolation which you can reduce by making a new friend, adding a new hobby, trying out a craft, or an outing with friends. Attempting to stay busy everyday makes the time go by faster. Try to do one new thing each month.

• Set an exercise goal and stick with it. You will feel so accomplished, and your body will feel better too. Endorphins are great for improving your mood.
• Avoid negativity. Make friends with positive people!
• A little bit of TV for the kids can be a lifesaver!
• Help the children with counting down the days with a special treat like ice cream or a little trip somewhere local.
• Don’t get too used to anything. Communication levels can change or get cut off; time zones can change. Always make the most of whatever communication you have. 
• Never feel bad when you have a bad day or cry. It's ok to have those emotions.
• Just don’t turn a bad day into a bad week or month.
• Don’t compare yourself to other wives or husbands. We are all on our own journey. And even on the same deployment, different groups may be in different situations, so don’t feel bad about another person’s communication options.
• Volunteer! Either with your unit, or an organization on base, or a local church. You will make friends and help make a difference!
• Try not to start arguments or get mad at your husband or wife. You don’t want to waste your communication time arguing over stupid stuff.
• Cereal for dinner is ok sometimes.
• Email your husband or wife photos so they feel connected to you and the kids every day.
• Find your tribe of sister or brother friends. Whatever you call it, we all need a friend.
• Don’t get mad when all the dates change. And the dates will change this is the life of the military.
• Talk about your feelings and discuss what you expect from each other during the deployment, including how you'll communicate. Don’t stress over small things while going through these transitions. 
• Create opportunities for lasting memories during the separation. 
• Spend time together in a relaxed atmosphere to create memories that will sustain you during the deployment.