Beo, United States (he/they)

“The joy that comes from coming out to accepting people cannot be beat.“

Was there a definitive moment you realized you were trans? How old were you?

The first time I really realized I was trans was probably around 11 or so. Looking back, there were signs in childhood and it really took me learning about trans people to realize that was what I was.

How soon after did you start to make changes? What were these changes?

The only changes that I've made so far are social ones. I'm out as queer (and I definitely feel like my bisexuality is connected to my transness) but I'm not widely out as trans. My girlfriend and my close friends know that I'm transmasc, and I'm working on coming out slowly but surely at school. I've purchased pronoun pins (including my favorite, a he/him pin in a flowing font) and I generally wear more masc clothes. I've cut my hair short before and I actually need to recut it soon as it gives me a lot of euphoria.

Have these changes started to make you feel more comfortable in your life and body?

Definitely! The first time I got my hair cut short, I was so euphoric I almost cried. Also, the joy that comes from coming out to accepting people cannot be beat in my opinion.

What would you tell your younger self? Would you do anything differently?

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Do you have a favorite/funny transition moment?

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Is there anything else you'd like to share?

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Have the gender-affirming steps you’ve taken impacted your overall happiness and sense of well-being?

Yes.