I definitely appreciate the thoughts expressed here. And, believe me, Cloud, I've been working on my own issues for a long, long time. I don't see those things as holding me back - I can deal with authority, and I can deal with lots of people - and have done both for many, many years. It's just not the spot I'd prefer to be to be in if I don't have to. I listed my positives too, along with my negatives. It wouldn't have been a balanced question if I included one and not the other. I do continue to work on my own issues, all the time really. I've decided at this time though, that I don't need to keep throwing myself in the frying pan - I've done that enough. I think it's ok to say now, this is my preference, this is not my preference - because I'm hoping to make a career change, not a job change, and am posting this thread looking for guidance. But I am definitely going to think about your advice more in depth, and see if it's something I need to use right now. Thank you again for replying and for your thoughtful answers!
Thanks elucidate.
I appreciate the championing and the loving way you expressed yourself on my behalf. You rock, and thanks for encouraging me.
Actually, thank you both for encouraging me!