you’ve always been a woman
I’ve seen quite a few posts asking “when will the mental changes happen?” and I can let you in on how to achieve the biggest mental change of all (which doesn’t come from HRT!):
Realizing that you have always been a woman.
The person who has been living your life? She’s always been a woman. Your experience thus far has been a woman’s. Just.. a woman who probably didn’t always know she was a woman (and that’s not your fault!).
Maybe you feel like you were “male socialized.” Oh, you mean your interests, hobbies and activities were limited to those expected by men to perform?
First off, I’m sorry. Second, that doesn’t make you a man. Maybe you found things you genuinely enjoyed among those “male” activities. Transitioning doesn’t mean you have to drop those activities. Anything a man can enjoy, a woman can enjoy too!! And plus, you were enjoying those activities as a woman - you just didn’t know it.
By transitioning, you have unshackled yourself from being bound to strictly “male” activities. You don’t have to drop those former activities you enjoy - now, you can explore adding new things to your life!! The things that woman inside of you has always wanted to do.
Smoke your cigars and get your nails painted. Wear a dress to a football game. Live the life you enjoy living! You have always been you, and she’s always been a woman.
The only thing that’s changed is that you now know you’re a woman!