redblack52

Hi Olga,

I'm transgender (and a bit of a weirdo) and I'd agree that my experience confers some unique strengths, or, at least, has taught me a lot. No regrets.

Being transgender has also absolutely, undoubtedly, tanked my career. (There are examples, but I'll get to the point). I'm 34, I have a master's, and I've never cleared more than ~$25k in income in a single year.

What would you say to those of us who, despite any wisdom gained, clearly pay a significant price for our differences?

Wow, thanks so much for responding and being so direct.

I struggle with the idea that "the road less traveled by" is a worthwhile path to success, since although it's worked for others, it's been a little bit of a rough ride in my case. Some differences are stigmatized, and stigma isn't always counterbalanced by reward.

It's hard to hear how important it is to be yourself, how it's crucial to true success (however defined) when it hasn't quite worked out that way for me. It's possible things could turn around, that I'll find somewhere where I'm decently-paid and connect with the work, but it often seems like it's not just a matter of having something unique to offer, it's also whether or not it's the right kind of unique.

Point being that I appreciate your acknowledgement. I'll definitely check out your book, and I don't think I would have otherwise (I'm just a little jaded these days, if you can't tell). Thanks!

Can someone who isn't very funny learn to be funny, or is it something you've got to be born with?