Trying to figure out what being 'pansexual' really means for me

I've recently come across the term 'pansexual' while exploring different sexual orientations, and it kind of resonates with me, but I’m still a bit fuzzy on what it truly means in day-to-day life. I’ve always found myself attracted to people regardless of gender, but I also wonder if I’m just using a label to make sense of feelings that are still pretty new to me.

Sometimes it feels freeing to have a word that fits, but other times I worry about putting myself in a box or oversimplifying my experiences. The whole idea of attraction beyond gender seems beautiful and inclusive, yet I’m curious how others actually live out that identity. How do you explain your pansexuality to partners or friends? Does it change how you approach dating or relationships?

It would be great to hear from folks who have embraced this label or who have felt similarly unsure. How did you come to understand your orientation? Any advice for someone who’s still feeling their way through this?