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How to Come Out as Transgender to The People in Your Life

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By Milton Pocheco
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)
People are unique!
People are unique!
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Congratulations on claiming your own identity. Perhaps you've felt frustrated, confused, and just not-quite-right growing up with a gender label that simply doesn't fit you. Maybe you've always felt different; maybe downright defective as a human being. Have people pressured you to "man up" or "be more ladylike?" I know what it's like, and it seems at first as though no one will ever accept you for who you are once you tell them you are transgendered. People are unpredictable, but most, especially your closest friends and family want what's best for you. Coming out is hard and there is no one right way to do it. Here are some suggestions that might help you out a bit.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • courage tempered with a healthy skepticism
  1. Step 1

    Before you come out to others, come out to yourself. Know the person you are from the inside out and defend that person. If you doubt yourself, it will give other people reasons to doubt you. Are you someone that is honest and reliable? You will probably have an easier time winning people's approval if others see that you have a good head on your shoulders. So make sure you feel confident in yourself before sharing the news.

  2. Step 2

    Decide whom to come out to and why. You don't have to tell everyone you meet that your this or that. You might tell your parents and best friends because you're close to them and you know that they will love you no matter what (in theory). If they do react negatively, realize that they may be totally shocked and are not very mature (their fault, not yours. Never be sorry for being yourself). However, don't talk back or get upset with them. You need to show them that your secure enough in your own identity enough to not take insults to heart. I told you this takes courage!

  3. Step 3

    There will always be people in this world who will accept you for who and what you are. There are many groups out there and resources to help you. Check out the links below.

Tips & Warnings
  • You don't need to come out to anyone at all. It's only if you think it's necessary.
  • Be patient with people and give them time to adjust. Sometimes certain people never will accept you. That's to be expected. However, there are many more people out there who will accept you as you are.
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