Respecting Those Before Me

[Stochastic]

Last week, I was at a work meeting that was quite controversial. Angry public and numerous others were in attendance. It has been months since I attended one of these types of meetings, so I was caught off guard. No longer could I depend on my physical appearance because my once solid frame is now 30 lbs lighter due to diet and HRT. I felt like a scrawny pretty boy with small breasts and had a "what in the world am I doing to myself" moment. Fortunately, the meeting was broken up into two sessions.

I arrived at the afternoon session with renewed confidence. I reminded myself to have either a strong presence, or at times, to act somewhat casual. Most importantly, watch your body language, and do not show signs of being nervous. Speak clearly, firmly, and directly. By the end of the meeting, I thought I did very well in helping to move discussions forward.

After the meeting, I had some time to reflect on my moment of panic that morning. I realized that I will need an extraordinary level of mental toughness to get through any future transition, and I have nothing but great respect for the men and women that have the strength to transition. All of you here are unique and special individuals.

[Genzen]

I just had a very similar situation in a meeting at work myself. I managed to compose myself and interject meaningful comments. Not just talk to hear myself talking like some do. In the end I feel I gained respect from important people. But yea, some days I can't even imagine the mental strength those that transitioned before us must have had.

[mrs izzy]

I know this might sound as a generic answer but it truly is what i feel is the key to transition.

Here it is...... Confidence.

Others can see this in us. Its the same as the what they call them self Normal people. They know who they are and show confidence.

Once we stop feeling we have to prove ourself and just live in the gender will be the true turning point in life.

I worked my easy part of my transition in a male dominated field. I was the only female (not trans) on the job sites and if i showed any weakness in being female they would have eaten me alive. That was my turning point accepting a job as female early in transition. Trial by fire.

So everyone needs to work on there confidence of being female or male then go out in the world and never look back.

Hugs
Isabell