Life moves fast, and sometimes we don’t slow down to recognize just how much we’ve grown. It’s easy to focus on what still feels hard or unfinished, but what about the things you have done? The moments where you handled something differently, made a choice that aligned with who you are, or simply kept going when things were tough? This month’s Trans Journal Series is all about Identifying Wins—big ones, small ones, and ones we don’t always give ourselves credit for. Let’s take a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate our progress.
Table of Contents
What’s something you handled better this time than you would have in the past?
We don’t always notice when we’ve grown because we’re too busy being in the moment. Think of a situation that would’ve been really hard for you before, but you managed it differently this time. What did you do, and how did it make you feel?
Example:
“A friend canceled plans at the last minute, and instead of spiraling into ‘they hate me’ thoughts, I just… moved on. I felt a little bummed, but I didn’t take it personally or let it ruin my night. Past me would’ve spent hours overthinking, so yeah—that’s progress.”
What’s one thing you did recently that you’re proud of—no matter how small?
It doesn’t have to be some major achievement. Maybe you finally made that doctor’s appointment, tried a new outfit, set a boundary, or just got out of bed on a tough day. Write it down and own it!
Example:
“I sent an email correcting someone on my pronouns instead of just letting it slide. It was uncomfortable, but I did it. And they actually responded well! That tiny action made me feel more seen.”
What’s a win that doesn’t seem like a ‘win’ but actually is?
Sometimes, victories don’t look the way we expect. Maybe you quit something that wasn’t serving you. Maybe you let yourself rest instead of pushing through burnout. Maybe you just survived a really rough day or week.
Example:
“I left a job that made me miserable. It felt like a failure at first, but now I realize I chose my mental health over a paycheck. That’s a huge win, even if it didn’t feel like it at the time.”
If someone else accomplished what you’ve done, what would you say to them?
We tend to hype up our friends but downplay our success. Imagine someone you love just accomplished what you did—what would you tell them? Now, say that to yourself.
Example:
“If my friend told me they finally started hormones after years of waiting, I’d be screaming, ‘That’s amazing! I’m so proud of you!’ But for myself, I was just like, ‘Eh, it took me long enough.’ That’s not fair. I deserve to celebrate, too.”
What would the younger version of you be proud of you for today?
Think back to a younger version of yourself—maybe pre-transition, maybe just a few years ago. What would they be excited about if they could see you now?
Example:
“Little me would be THRILLED that I have a queer friend group now. I remember feeling so alone, thinking I’d never find people who understood me. But I did. That’s huge!”
What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself recently that feels like growth?
Wins aren’t just about actions; they’re also about mindset shifts. Have you realized something about yourself lately that feels like progress?
Example:
“I used to think I had to constantly prove my gender to be valid. Now, I realize I don’t have to ‘look’ a certain way or be on any particular timeline. Just existing as my true self is always enough.”
What’s a win you can set yourself up for in the near future?
Progress isn’t just about what you’ve done—it’s also about what’s coming next. What’s something small (or big!) you can do soon that would feel like a victory?
Example:
“I’ve been putting off updating my ID with my correct name and gender marker. I know it’ll feel so good to get that done. This week, I’m gonna at least look up the process and take the first steps.”
Growth isn’t always loud or obvious. Sometimes, it’s as simple as showing up for yourself in a way you couldn’t before. As you reflect on these prompts, remember that every step you take—whether it’s bold and life-changing or quiet and personal—is worth recognizing. You are constantly evolving, and that’s something to be proud of! Keep going, keep celebrating, and keep giving yourself the credit you deserve.
