I had been thinking of starting fresh professionally for at least the past six months.  Well, I embraced the opportunity and  took the plunge into job searching about a month ago.  I start a new job next week.  This is an exciting time for me. Its a different direction for me professionally- I have almost exclusively had a generalist  position in health care- now  I am venturing into acute inpatient psychiatric work which has more of a clinical focus.  The salary differential is pretty significant too given the clinical component.   It will be the first time I have started fresh professionally after losing more than 150 pounds.  I am no longer stereotyped as a morbidly obese person by prospective employers.  I did avoid applying for a position that was similiar to my work history.  I also thought it may be best to avoid if possible contacting previous amicable employers and supervisors who knew me as MO.  The job interviewing process was very different for me - weighing around 135-140 pounds and able to fit well into business suits or the tradtitional interview uniform.  My confidence, comfort with myself and assertiveness are markedly greater.  

In general, I am embracing changes in my life and seem to be seeking change more assertively.  I am not always willing to settle with the status quo these days.  I can compromise with in my relationships however.  I can't expect everyone- including me- to be perfect.  Some things needed to change in my life and I was too afraid in the past to take the risks.   Personality changes are definitely a side effect of extreme weight loss.  I believe I have changed for the better- but I am still in transition- getting used to the new me and who she is evolving to be.   Of course those close to be have to become  accustomed to the new me too- its a process of discovery and eventual acceptance.   My moral and ethical foundation however has not changed thankfully.    Via Con Dios