[Moxie.]

Hey,

Questioning your sexuality and gender identity is absolutely normal! I went through something similar with my sexuality, thinking I was bisexual until I realized I was a lesbian at 19. It's important to remember that the way you identify, in terms of both gender and sexual orientation, may change as you continue to learn more about yourself. That's completely okay! You're simply getting to know yourself and working towards figuring out what your truth is so you can live it fully. It also isn't essential that you assign a label to either. If assigning a label is affirming for you, then I definitely encourage you to do that. But, it doesn't make your identity any less valid if you choose not to give it a specific term.

It's also okay to experiment with your gender identity and orientation. Perhaps you can go by Madison in some settings and Ashton in others to figure out which feels more affirming for you. You might also experiment with gender presentation, as that may help you find where you align. That being said, please remember that your gender identity doesn't have to dictate how you present! It's totally okay if you wind up identifying as male but prefer wearing dresses or vice versa. You can also experiment with your sexuality by getting to know and dating people that you have an interest or attraction towards, regardless of their gender. Following curiosities and what feels right to you at a given moment is often one of the best ways to learn more about who you are, as you'll start to learn when you're happiest.

If you want to talk about this in more detail, please don't hesitate to respond to this thread or send me a PM.

Take care,
Sam