Every now and then, someone who is born as a boy will feel more comfortable when he is a girl. Unfortunately, some men cannot easily live like women for various reasons, for example the men are part of a minority. Remember, if starting the transition is the most comfortable option for you then this is the way to go. This article provides a guide to help you do that.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Understanding Yourself
Step 1. Understand what it means to be transgender
With increasing information about transgender people, you may already know the meaning of living as a transgender person. Transgender people change the natural gender they are born with with another gender. For example, a woman may once be considered a man.
- Gender is determined by heart and mind, not body parts. If you feel like a girl, you're a girl, but not everyone knows that.
- Some transgender people think they were born in the wrong body. However, there are also some who are comfortable with their bodies. For example, a transgender man may say that because he is male, his body is also male.
Step 2. Understand what it means to be nonbinary
If a person perceives that he is neither male, nor female, he may be non-binary. Non-binary people have gender that does not fully fit into the “male” or “female” category. Although there are many, below are some fairly common non-binary genders:
- people genderfluid can change gender over time. For example, a person may be a man yesterday, a woman today, and genderless tomorrow.
- Demiboys/demigirls not fully fall into the “female” or “male” category.
- people agent has no gender.
Step 3. Understand the difference between transgender and non-binary, and gay and bisexual
Some people don't really understand what it means to be transgender or non-binary, and sometimes have unreasonable thoughts about it. Often times, a transgender or non-binary person is always considered gay. Being gay means liking and being attracted to the same gender, and being transgender means being gender incompatible. If a person perceives that he or she is female, he or she may be transgender and not gay.
Transgender and non-binary people can also be gay or bisexual. You can be a girl who likes other girls, or you can be a non-binary who likes girls. Nothing is wrong
Step 4. Take time to self-reflect
Imagine yourself 10 years in the future: being a man and being called “sir/sir”, being a girl and being called “madam/madam”, and being non-binary with various nicknames. Which sounds more comfortable, fun, or exciting? Look in the mirror and say, “I am a [male/female/non-binary]”. Which one feels most appropriate and correct?
- It's okay to be a guy who likes feminine things if that's who you really are. It's okay to be a boy who likes pink or cross-dresses. You don't have to act according to your gender role.
- You don't have to be 100% feminine to be a girl. Some girls like soccer, superheroes and wearing pants. If you feel like a transgender woman, this will not erase your gender
- Take as much time as needed to complete this. Don't be in a hurry to find yourself.
Step 5. Don't let other people define your identity
No matter how good that person is, only you can find your true identity. Don't let other people determine your gender - only you can find out. People who know you very well can also be wrong in knowing how you really feel.
Method 2 of 3: Transitioning to Female
Step 1. Be yourself
It is exhausting and useless to pretend to be someone else, be it masculine or feminine. Find out your own style. There are many types of women in the world, and you can choose the one that suits you best.
It's okay to be a girl with masculine interests, like technology or sports. Your interests and identity don't have to be withheld to be a girl
Step 2. Start slowly
Changing your appearance from masculine to feminine can be overwhelming, and that's okay. If you're not ready, you shouldn't rush into wearing wigs, jewelry, heavy makeup, etc. Do this process as long or as fast as you want.
It's okay for some transgender women to feel comfortable wearing makeup. There's no really "right" way to make the transition
Step 3. Start lengthening the hair
Cut your hair into a pixie cut and then lengthen it to shoulder length or more. Make sure your hair is washed every day and take good care of it. Comb and style your hair as you wish. After all, the hair is yours.
- If you don't know how to properly care for your hair, look it up on the internet or in magazines. Visiting the wikiHow hair care articles can also help.
- Some parents may be hesitant to let their children grow their hair out. If your parents won't let you grow your hair out, there are ways to reassure them. For example, say that growing your hair out can help you look different than others.
Step 4. Take care of yourself
The women in books or movies always take good care of themselves, and you'll feel more feminine when you do. Take care of your skin and nails, and shower every day. Taking good care of yourself will make you feel better and more confident.
Taking care of yourself can help make the transition easier
Step 5. Choose accessories that can help you feel more feminine
Hair accessories, necklaces, and/or bracelets can make you feel more feminine. Many women use nail polish to make their nails more attractive. Although not all women like it, some also like things that are feminine because it is fun and emphasizes their feminine taste. Visit several stores to get what you want.
- You can also get your ears pierced. Many women have their ears pierced, and this is an opportunity for you to find and wear some interesting earrings. However, if you don't want to or your parents won't allow it, you don't have to do this. There are also many women whose ears are not pierced.
- While shopping is fun, don't buy accessories that don't feel comfortable or don't suit your personality. You don't need to buy a flower crown if it doesn't fit.
Step 6. Wear comfortable and attractive clothes
Don't be afraid to shop at the women's clothing section. Look for clothes that you feel fit in this section. If you prefer skirts, wear skirts. If you prefer jeans, wear them.
- If you want to be more creative, find out what colors work, and how to dress that will accentuate your body type.
- It's okay to wear men's clothes if none of the women's clothes are to your liking. For example, if the women's pants are uncomfortable, it's okay for you to wear the men's pants. Your comfort is no less important.
Step 7. Find someone to talk to
Whether it's a close friend, relative, or even a psychiatrist, it's important to express your feelings and get the other person's opinion. If you need help determining your gender, there are many websites on the internet that provide tips, advice, or even hands-on help.
Step 8. Connect with other transgender people
You have just made a big change, and there will be many obstacles in your way. Who has experienced it? Another transgender. They can help with your transition by providing advice and support. It's helpful to connect with other transgender people to chat and discuss issues, and it's possible that you'll make some new friends!
Be careful when using social media sites. There are many people on the internet who like to tell others that they are transgender, or that they have no gender. Associating with people like this can make you doubt or feel sorry for yourself. Therefore, avoid people like this
Step 9. Find a therapist who specializes in transgender issues
Adolescence is a difficult time, especially for transgender youth who must overcome obstacles during the transition stage and fight discrimination from their environment. Choosing the right therapist may be difficult, but the results will be worth it. Getting help from a therapist you're comfortable with can be very helpful, especially when times are tough.
- You don't have to specifically look for a therapist who deals with gender issues. Therapists who understand transgender issues can also be selected. However, a gender therapist is a good choice if you are going through a physical transition.
- The therapist shouldn't force you to take on a gender role you don't want, tell you your gender, or tell you to do anything you're uncomfortable with. If your therapist does this, he or she is not the right therapist and should be replaced.
Step 10. Dress like a girl as much as possible
Don't go to a sister's room and put on her clothes. Dressing up for a Halloween party is one of the best ways for you to have fun as a girl without feeling judged. It can also provide an opportunity to talk about the possibility of you becoming a woman on a permanent basis.
Step 11. Get together with girl friends
Friends are important, especially if they make you more confident. If you can find girls to make friends with, hang out with them! Even if they're not the type of girl to talk to you about fashion, having friends you feel comfortable with will go a long way in boosting your confidence.
- You can also make friends with boys. Just make sure your circle of friends is dominated by women. At school, most people of the same gender will be more likely to get together. Hanging out with women can make you feel more like a woman.
- Some people may bully you for behaving like a girl or always hanging out with girls. People like this don't understand that there are many people in this world who are like you. Tell them firmly to stop bullying you. Talk to an adult if you are still being bullied. Always remember that you are not wrong and the person is evil.
Method 3 of 3: Coping Without Transition
If it is not safe for you to reveal your gender and begin the transition, it is important to initiate coping mechanisms to protect your mental health.
Step 1. Consider an appropriate time to reveal your gender
For example, if you're worried that your parents will kick you out and take your tuition, wait until college is over and you have your own place to live. Plan carefully when the time is right for you to do it. It can help you to build a better future.
It is not obligatory to share personal information about your gender with parents, especially if they tend to judge you. Not telling doesn't mean lying. You do this to secure your education and yourself
Step 2. Take good care of yourself
If you can't make the transition, you may be stressed and your physical and mental health will be compromised. Even if you feel trapped and you can't really care about how you feel, taking care of yourself can help you feel better.
- Eat healthy food and exercise.. try to set aside time to get out of the house and get some fresh air, this will also help.
- On a smaller scale, make sure you do activities like showering, eating, and moving around rather than locking yourself in your room.
- Keep yourself busy with activities you enjoy, such as having a hobby, watching TV, learning something new, etc.
- Always pay attention to your mental health. Unfortunately, transgender people (especially teenagers) have a higher tendency to commit suicide. It is important to avoid self-harm and to deal with suicidal thoughts. If it's very difficult, you can try contacting an institution that handles LGBT-related issues.
Step 3. Consider safe ways to express yourself
For example, your safety may be in jeopardy if you wear a dress, but your parents may not care if you have long hair and pigtails or wear tight jeans. Even though it's different at times, and it's hard to "compromise" with your parents, you can still express yourself. You just have to dig deeper.
- If the way you dress is the problem, try to find clothes that are categorized as boys so your parents don't mind. You can also find clothes in this style in the men's section (such as tight jeans).
- You can also do activities such as painting your nails with clear nail polish, applying light makeup (if it's safe), or doing a feminine facial routine, such as shaving or moisturizing your skin. These activities usually won't look too flashy.
Step 4. Get in touch with people who support you
You're not alone - not everyone is able and willing to make the transition, and there are people out there who are willing to hear and understand how you feel. To keep your mental health in check, reach out to friends and communities who are willing to support and listen to you. The transgender community can provide considerable assistance as most transgender people have been (or are) going through the same thing.
- Even friends who haven't made the transition, or who aren't transgender, can still help you. Sometimes what is needed is someone who will listen to your complaints, understand, and accompany you to do activities that can encourage you.
- For those who don't have direct support, there are many transgender groups on the internet. Make sure the group is hidden so people don't know your real gender.
Step 5. Seek professional help
Hiding gender can be stressful, as well as very difficult. Try finding a counselor, therapist, or doctor who can help take care of your mental health. Mental health is very important, so it's important to talk about your feelings with someone who is willing to support and help.
- Check for symptoms of depression. Without proper treatment, transgender people have a higher tendency to contract this disease. Medications and treatments can improve your quality of life.
- Explain why you don't feel safe making the transition to a professional. They may be able to help you.
Step 6. Find a safe place to express your true gender
Sometimes it's hard to live life as a man when you don't feel like a man, so it's important to find a safe place for you to express yourself. If you can't do it at home, you might be able to express yourself at a friend's house who knows your real gender.
If there is an LGBT community at school, you may be able to become a member of that community and express yourself. Make sure your parents don't know that you are a member of this community
Tips
- If you decide to make the transition, it's best to make the transition when you're young so you don't spend too much money on the effects of puberty, but don't neglect school and work while going through this process. Sometimes, making the transition before graduating from high school is a lucrative option.
- If you are very masculine and cannot possibly be a girl, find other solutions to your feelings.
- Talk about the calls that are right for you with friends and family. Remember, it's not wrong to feel like being a different gender. If they don't accept it, it's their fault not yours.
- Remember, looking like a girl isn't everything. It's okay if you feel like you can't look like a girl. It's how you feel that matters, not how other people see you
Warning
- Unfortunately, this world is full of narrow-minded and evil people. Always be careful when around these people.
- Don't assume that a personality is only suitable for one gender. Strength is not the opposite of femininity
- Don't let fear and discomfort stop you from seeking help. Reasonable people will not judge or refuse to help you.
