The purpose of this series is to help transgender individuals explore transition options. Key emphasis on options. I’m a huge advocate of every step being optional. The only person who knows what’s right for you is you. So let’s empower your ability to determine your future and make these decisions into bite sizes.

Self-Recognition

All self-help starts with internal recognition and acceptance. Before continuing down the path of transitioning you must understand the depths of transitioning and the mental toll it may burden you with.

You should never fear any road you start down, if you’re not on board 100% you risk major regrets. The last thing I want for anyone is to do something life-altering, of which is considered elective, just to wish it never happened. Here’s what I recommend you do before starting.

Conduct Exploratory Research

Treat this step as a debate, look into both happily transitioned individuals and those who’ve decided to de-transition. Listening to the pros and cons as they sit for both sides, seeing their pain points/triumphs could clear the air of any fears you currently have.

Another important element to research is legal rights. Know-how and where you’re protected. For example, in the workplace. Are they free to fire you based on your gender expression? What about in public spaces, schools, and healthcare? Are you able to find safe spaces?

Legal ends also include understanding what it takes to change your gender markers, name, and other legal documentation. Understanding the legal limitations of your city/state/province/country can only benefit you in the long run. 

Speak to a Close Friend or Family Member

The biggest fear of transitioning tends to be the reaction of others. Start by using your most trusted peers to test the waters. Coming out to just one person will start to give you an idea of how others around you might react and what questions could arise. Just know, you do not have to have all the answers for them. This should be an opportunity for you to investigate more digitally before coming out to more individuals and expanding your support network.

If coming out to someone feels impossible, maybe look into the next step first.

Ask for Guidance

The online world has created the amazing possibility of networking with people whom you’ve never met. Leverage this into learning more. Chat with an out and proud trans individual. If you know someone IRL, even better! Just remember to be safe. Take all precautions when sharing personal information with a stranger, no matter how large or trustworthy they may appear to be.

Starting without HRT

Have free time or a safe space to start exploring? Consider trying some of the following:

• Practice your voice, more on this later
• Grow or cut your hair
• Learn skills you know you’ll need – such as makeup or shaving
• Permanent hair removal
• Mannerisms
• If you’re out, enforce pronouns

Interested in learning more ways to start transitioning pre-HRT? Check out this blog: How To Start Transitioning Before Hormones (HRT)

Things to Consider

If you ever have any questions during any part of this series do not hesitate to leave a comment here or on YouTube. All questions asked during the duration of this series will be answered in a future Community Q&A episode.

I encourage you all to check out the downloadable workbook pages linked in the description box of each video as well as on the corresponding blog post. At the completion of this series, all videos, blogs, and workbook pages will be bundled up into an ebook that will be available for free.

As always, I would like to disclose that I am not a doctor or a trained professional in any capacity. All information provided is purely food for thought.