100 days are often a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect.

On Tuesday, the day arrived – my 100th day, when I was able to simply be myself at the bank. And another number: eight months have passed since my first day.

These 100 days were colorful and diverse – in a variety of outfits, from understated to dresses and pumps. They were filled with many perfectly normal workdays, but also with special moments: off-site events, large events that I was able to help shaping, and exciting appointments – both internal and external.

Despite all these differences, all the encounters had one thing in common: an incredible amount of openness, acceptance, and professionalism.

I would almost say it was a seamless transition – one day as my "twin brother," the next as myself. Of course, it wasn't quite that easy. For everyone, it meant an adjustment – ​​requiring attention, sensitivity, and sometimes a bit of uncertainty: How do I approach her correctly now? What if I slip up? I give my colleagues a lot of credit for considering these thoughts and being open about them.

In all the conversations and meetings, I've attended, I've never experienced anyone treating me condescendingly or disparagingly. No inappropriate comments, no disparaging glances — just respectful normality. I know as little as anyone else what others think of me. And that's exactly how it should be.

Does that mean I've never been given strange looks? Of course not — after all, we are a reflection of society. What's interesting is that these looks, as in public, always come from people who have nothing to do with me. People who might see me in the lobby or the cafeteria, but have never exchanged a word with me.

But because it's so much nicer to end on a positive note: From security guards to colleagues and management, I've received an incredible amount of kind and appreciative feedback. I was particularly touched by a colleague who had already written me a heartfelt message on LinkedIn – and then, during a chance meeting, spontaneously approached me to express it in person.

With this occurence, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who support me with their words, gestures, and openness: Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Yours,

Nicole