Contributor: Zaac

I was honored when Nash asked me to be a contributor for Tips for Trans Men because it was through blogs, YouTube videos, and a few close, supportive friends that I found the courage to embark on this transition. I remember in the early days of self-discovery feeling so lost, confused, and uncertain about, well, nearly everything. I looked to other trans guys who seemed so confident in themselves and their journey and thought, “Wow, will I ever be like that? Will I ever get there?”

It took a long time to figure this out, but I eventually realized there is no standard measurement of “getting it” or “getting there.” (And I’m still “not there!”) Each journey is personal, unique, with its own challenges, goals, ideals. And yet, even in our individuality, there is something comforting in being able to reach out to others who have been in similar situations. I find it healing to be open and vulnerable without having to do so much explaining. I’ve been dealing with feelings of anxiety, depression and isolation, as I imagine many of you out there may have as well, and I found strength and inspiration through other queer and trans folk, even in some of the most tumultuous and dysphoric of times. It is for these reasons that I hope to give back through this blog, and why many of my Tip-posts will focus on self care, vulnerability, staying safe, and being gentle and patient with ourselves.

Thank you for taking the time to read, share, and be. I look forward to reading your thoughts and comments throughout our blog. If you have a post to share, let us know! And please, be kind to one another, and most importantly, to yourselves.