Time lines are difficult because, as so many people have said, they are very individual.
My transition to full time is dictated by the academic year. I was not going to transition during the school year - the overall ramifications were far too great.
Since I was forced into a seperation from my spouse, I have been living part time as me, and doing so has given me courage to go forward. Yes, I get a few looks walking into the plus-sized store I frequent. Also had a few looks when I went to DMV and had a new photo taken.
My frame, weight and weight-distribution will prevent me from going stealth. However, I have come to the conclusion that being able to seamlessly blend in is a fantasy.
So, back to time line.
My suggestion, and what I have used, is to lay out what needs to be done and when you can accomplish the tasks.
This includes, but is not limited to:
making plans with your employer,
telling your family,
building a suport group of friends,
acquiring enough of a wardrobe for your profession,
getting the green light from your counselor,
getting the green light from your primary care physician,
getting the green light from an endocrinologist,
start getting rid of the facial hair,
date with a stylist to transform your looks,
laying out money to pay for it all
and, most importantly, being comfortable with the time you have laid out.
My original timeline was to transition in September '08. SInce I was able to see the endocrinologist a lot faster than was expecting, fulltime will be September '07.
I have a lot to do and little time to do it in. I am also rapidly reaching a crisis point, similar to what Cindi described. I need to do this, and the need is gathering momentum. My transition appears to be an open secret amongst the faculty & staff. Present and former students are asking other teachers if I am gay.
Timelines must be flexible. Remember, no operational plan ever survives initial contact. (From Murphy's Laws of Combat.) Make sure you let yourself expand or collaps the timeline to meet your needs.
Chaunte
