Noah, United States (he/him)

“Remember that your bravery to live life exactly as you are will upset people who are living a lie, and that is not your problem."

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

There have always been signs (wanting to join the men’s football team in hs, playing MLK in the kindergarten play despite being born white and afab, IDing as butch lesbian and so on) but it wasn’t until my late 20s that I accepted I was trans and started testosterone. And even then I was still in denial!

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

I got diagnosed with gender dysphoria at 29 and started testosterone. Immediately I felt a MILLION times better, but I was still IDing as lesbian and told myself most cis women wish they had a happy trail, adam’s apple and a deep voice. The more masculine I became I eventually felt aligned with my true gender identity and came out, I’ve been out ever since and have fully accepted I’m a transgender man. It feels amazing to be able to say that even to this day.

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

A MILLION PERCENT.

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

Never try to force yourself to be someone you’re not, be confident and remember that your bravery to live life exactly as you are will upset people who are living a lie, and that is not your problem.

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.