Advice from Nonbinary People About Voice and Gender (Part 2)
Apr 26, 2024When it comes to exploring your voice and gender expression, the journey is as unique as you are. That's why I'm thrilled to announce my latest course, Mix & Match: Designing Your Nonbinary Voice, launching on May 1st.
As part of the preparations for this course, I had conversations with 14 incredible nonbinary individuals who have shared their experiences and insights to help others navigate this personal journey.
Try Everything At Least Once
One of the key takeaways from the interviews was the idea of experimentation. Chris, a participant, emphasized the importance of trying everything at least once. "Even if you don't think it’s going to be ‘the’ thing, you won’t know until you try it," they said. This approach isn't just about finding what fits; it's also about discovering what doesn't. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to explore without judgment and to learn more about what truly resonates with you.
What Makes You Feel Empowered?
Marcus shared a personal anecdote about empowerment that I found particularly moving. They described how grooming and adding a little sparkle to their appearance, like glitter on their beard, makes them feel empowered. Marcus likened this to finding a voice that has the same effect. "What voice makes you feel empowered? Makes you feel heard?" they asked. This reflects the profound connection between how we present ourselves to the world and how we feel inside—exploring your voice can be just as empowering as the right physical expression.
Listen to Your Body
Matt's advice brings an essential perspective to the conversation: listening to your body. "Try to see what makes your body feel good and how it sounds," they suggested. This advice is crucial, especially in a world that often prioritizes external validation over personal comfort and joy. Matt encourages us to step away from the binary mindset of sounding "too masculine" or "too feminine" and to focus more on what genuinely makes us happy—whether that’s a higher or a lower register, or something entirely unique.
You Know Yourself Best
In the end, the message is clear: You are the ultimate authority on your identity. "Don’t let anyone else dictate your own identity for you," Matt advised. This is a powerful reminder of the agency we all hold over our identities and the expressions that come with them.
Join Us for More!
I am excited for the launch of Mix & Match: Designing Your Nonbinary Voice on May 1st. If you're eager to start this journey and would like to secure an earlybird discount, be sure to preorder before the launch. My hope is that this course, and the wisdom shared by its contributors, helps you on your path to finding a voice that truly represents who you are.
Pre-Order Mix & Match Now!
Navigating gender and voice is a deeply personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. As you explore, remember to embrace the process, listen to your instincts, and most importantly, celebrate every discovery along the way. Happy experimenting!