I didn't really have much time to consider the consequences or the potential pitfalls; sometimes, when an opportunity presents itself, you just have to follow your gut. It is with this thought in mind that I want to announce that I'm now living full time as a woman.
I wasn't expecting to go full-time so soon. In fact, up until a week ago I wasn't slated to start until November. I figured it would take me that long to find a quality job with a good company, and in the meantime I'd have to slog it out as a male. After all, my job references were for a male, my license was male, and my work history was very, very male. But I did land a good job, and I landed it early; there was no reason to hold back.
The whole disclosure process was painless. I told my HR manager about the issue, she asked when I wanted to start dressing as a woman, and that was that. I'm still amazed at how simple the process was - for all I heard I was fully prepared for procedural meetings, requests for proof, every little nit to pick under the sun. But the response was resounding: We Want Your Skills.
I'm definitely not disappointed in the results. For the first time in my life I truly feel right. The only thing I worry about - and this is a small, small thing, mind you - is that being full time highlights the fact that I have no history as a woman. The slate has been wiped clean and I can't help feeling that, in many ways, my past is now off-limits for everyday, small-talk conversation.
I guess it just goes to show that opportunity almost always trumps planning.
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10 Comments
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This is just great to hear. Congrats on beginning your new(er) life Austin, and especially on how progressive an employer you have. A lot of us aren't so lucky, even in states where there are laws protecting us from discrimination. Knowing that you and your transition are being dealt with by your employer in such a positive and progressive manner in an area as conservative as Indiana is very comforting and a hopeful sign of progress.
Rebecca Juro | May 22, 2009 12:43 PM
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Thank you. Surprisingly, the Indianapolis area is quite progressive. I wouldn't go as far as "liberal," but progressive, yes. :) There's also laws protecting me.
But certainly this does show progress. :)
Austen Crowder | May 22, 2009 2:50 PM
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This gives me great hope for our state! I would love to see follow-up posts on how it goes with your new employer and fellow employees. We can all learn from your experience.
Betty Greene Salwak | May 22, 2009 12:45 PM
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So far, so good. Its a small company that's driven by results -- something I really enjoy. I'll keep you posted!
Austen Crowder | May 22, 2009 2:51 PM
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Congratulations to you, Austin!
CP | May 22, 2009 2:19 PM
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It gets even better. Hard to believe, I know, but it does.
And before you know it, you will find it difficult to remember that things could have ever been different.
Congrats!
Zoe Brain | May 23, 2009 12:56 AM
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YAY! I'm so gald your HR department was cool.
I still consider myself lucky and blessed. The job I have now, I only took becasue a Trans girl friend who worked here told me too. I've stayed because a Trans boy freind who worked at our sister company said too stay. The whole time stressing over every little thing as I go thru transition worrying what HR would say.
Then shortly after becoming a direct hire and not just a contract worker I got a new supervisor. He wanted me to butch up a lot (so not me) and I ended up going to HR. We had a nice talk and yeah, I came out prematurely but they turned out to be supportive and understanding.
Hugs,
Gina
Gina9223 | May 23, 2009 8:44 AM
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Dear Austin,
Congratulations in taking the 1st step towards the rest of your life. I began transitioning in 2001 and had my surgery 2 years ago at the ripe old age of 69. After working 14 years as a male, I transitioned at work. I had more difficulties with the management trying to figure out what to do than I did with aceptance by my fellow workers. This morning I had breakfast with several girls from work and we had a fabulous time, and yes I talk about my history as a male, even when I was in the Army. You don't have to let go of your history completely. Good Luck and blessings to you. Diane Avedovech
Diane Avedovech | May 23, 2009 1:28 PM
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Austin, Congratulations! What a momentous day! I transitioned 2 years ago this month and am grateful for it every day.
Abby | May 23, 2009 2:59 PM
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I want to congratulate and thank you Austin, your encouragement is what made me take the same steps, so far most of the people at work have been really nice about it, and those that seem bothered are pretty much ignoring it. I'm so much happier now than I ever was before
so just a few days after you made your big step I did mine. as of Monday May 18 I became Jenna Alis Salles full time permanently
thank you so much
Jenna Alis Salles | June 6, 2009 2:22 PM
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