cross-posted from: https://lemmy.zip/post/65531716

Has anyone else started liking their friends less after transitioning?

I’m not sure if this is a common experience, but I’ve noticed that since starting my transition, some people I used to genuinely enjoy being around have started to annoy me.

It’s not because they mess up my name or pronouns. That happens occasionally, but they usually correct themselves right away and apologize. It’s more that I just don’t seem to enjoy their company anymore.

For some context, I’m a civil engineer, and most of my friends are engineers as well. I’ve noticed this most strongly with some of my coworkers lately. It’s hard to describe exactly what changed. Part of it is that a lot of them have a very “macho” attitude, but it’s not just that.

Sometimes I wonder if, before transitioning, I was convincing myself that I liked being around certain people because I wanted to fit in, and now I’ve stopped doing that. But it’s strange, because there are days when I feel annoyed just seeing them, or when they make plans and invite me.

Has anyone else experienced something similar after transitioning? Did your social circle change, or did you start seeing certain relationships differently?

  • MoonrootWitch@lemmy.zipOPEnglish
    2·
    1 day ago

    That’s a bit sad, but I think you might be onto something.

    The people I feel closest to these days are also the ones I’ve been able to talk to about emotions, personal experiences, and things outside of work. Those friendships feel a lot more meaningful to me.

    I also think work friendships can be complicated. When work is stressful, sometimes the last thing I want after hours is another reminder of work 😅. Maybe part of what I’m realizing is that I want more connections that aren’t built entirely around my job.