Before transition, my social life was non existent.
I was so worried about how others might react, that rather than be honest about my situation, I shut myself away and didn't do much of anything. I didn't leave the house for weeks at a time, and when my friends did try to make plans, I always made excuses. I did anything I could to avoid social situations and became a total recluse.
As a result, and unsurprisingly enough, lots of relationships suffered.
Nowadays although I'm hardly a social butterfly, things have improved. The friendships I did manage to keep are now stronger than ever, and in social circumstances I no longer feel anxious all the time.
Sometimes we get so overwhelmed and consumed by our fears that we forget that there is a whole world out there beyond transition.
The most important thing I have learned is that even when you don't feel like reaching out to people, it can be good to go a little out of your comfort zone. It might be difficult at first, but one day you might end up thanking yourself.
