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Hey everyone. Thought I’d write here and maybe get some conversation going. Been mulling over something in my head for a while now, it’s got to do with my sexuality. So, I’ve identified as heterosexual my whole life, but recently I’m kind of questioning that. Seems strange I know - considering I’m already 35. Is it common at this age to question your sexuality?

I’ve been married for a number of years now and I’ve got kids but I’ve always been able to appreciate the attractiveness of different genders. Recently however, it’s happening more and quite differently. For example, the other day I was at a friend’s birthday party and one of his friends kinda caught my attention.

Not exactly sure how to explain it, but have any of you ever felt like this? Like questioning something you’ve always taken as fact about yourself? I’ve grown up in a very traditional family. Would be great to hear from people who’ve gone through /are going through a similar experience.

Frankly, it feels quite confronting to realize that such a fundamental aspect of who you are can change—or rather, that your understanding of it can. Even more so when you’ve spent three decades of your life in a certain way. It kind of sounds like a mid-life crisis (lol).

Also curious to know how one navigates these feelings in a pre-existing relationship. It’s one thing to explore 🤔

Hey there, first off, don’t feel like you’re alone in this. It’s totally normal to question different parts of your identity at different times in your life, even something as fundamental as your sexuality. I faced a similar situation in my late 40s. Shocked me to the core, I tell ya.

Totally get the fear and the confusion, felt that too. What helped me was finding a good councilor who specialized in sexuality. Helped me make sense of these new feelings. It was quite the journey, but I got there in the end. And remember, there’s no rush to figure it all out - give yourself the space to explore what you’re feeling.

As for the relationship, that’s a tough one. For me, honesty always worked best. It was tough, but in the end, my partner understood. Everyone’s situation is unique though so do what feels right for you. Hope that helps a bit!

Definitely agree with giving yourself some space to sort out your feelings! Self-discovery can be such an exciting, albeit daunting, journey. Just know that there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ in this case, just what feels true to you. And absolutely, talk to your partner when you’re ready. Honesty, like you said, tends to be the best option in the long run even if it’s tough at first. I’ve found that talking it out with someone you trust can make your feelings seem less jumbled and scary too. Keep us posted on here – this community is rooting for ya!

100% support everything you’ve said here, man. It’s never too late to unravel who you really are, not at 35, not at any age really. And yes… it’s terrifying, but also liberating. Took me nearly four decades to come to grips with my own sexuality. Best advice I can give is to take your time, there’s no rush. As cliché as it may sound, it’s your journey and no one else’s. You mentioned talking to your partner, it’s indeed a huge step but absolutely crucial. Their support or lack of it, will be an eye-opener too. Remember you’re not alone, we’re all here for ya. And yeah, keep us posted!

Mate, I remember that gut-wrenching feeling when I first questioned my own sexuality in my early 40s. Not gonna lie, it’s a head spinner, but it’s also an opportunity to discover this whole new aspect of yourself. And that’s bloody exciting. Certainly chit-chat with your partner. It’s bumpy terrain, but their support can provide an amazing buffer. Stay strong, you’re not alone in this. And definitely keep us in the loop, we’re here for a chinwag whenever you need it. Cheers!

Absolutely spot on, mate. This exploration of self can be overwhelming but it’s also a bloody liberating process, innit? Remember, it’s your journey and there’s no right or wrong way to navigate it. Chatting with your partner can help, but also remember there’s heaps of support outside your personal circle as well - LGBTQ+ hotlines, groups and even us lot here. You know, I once read in some book ‘The longest journey begins with a single step.’ So chin up, mate, and take that first step. And we’ll be here for a good chinwag anytime! Crack on!

Yeah mate, you’ve nailed it. Exploring yourself can be bloomin’ tough, ain’t it? But there’s loads of good energy out there. Can’t forget the good side to things. Speaking to those close can really solidify things on your mind. Had a mate once, couldn’t talk to his partner about it, then finally did and it was a right weight off his chest he said. So there’s something to be said there. It can be daunting but remember everyone here has got your back. Easier said than done, but try not to stress too much, yeah? One small step at a time, that’s all it takes. And remember, this is your journey, and it’s just started. All the best, mate. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Absolutely mate, self exploration is a journey and there ain’t no age limit on that. It’s like trudging up a steep hill. Some parts are tough but you get these beautiful views along the way, y’know? And yeah, opening up to people about it can feel like a giant leap but it’s oftentimes a game-changer. Like you said, better out than in, right? Don’t rush, no need to hurry things…you dictate your own pace here. We’re just here on the sidelines cheering you on. Keep us posted, yeah?

Definitely, mate! Discovering new things about yourself, especially regarding your sexuality, really can feel like an off-the-trail hike. Sometimes it’s rocky. But mate, those views, getting to see a truer ‘you’, there’s nothing quite like it. As you said, it’s your own pace. Remember the tortoise and the hare? Speed ain’t everything. Keep us updated, yeah? We’re all rooting for you on this journey of self-discovery.

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So true about the tortoise and hare mate! Self-discovery really is a marathon, not a sprint. Sometimes it might feel like you’re wading through knee-deep mud, other times you’ll be skipping down the track. Either way, take all the time you need to figure this one out. It ain’t a race. And remember, there’s no right or wrong answer, just what feels right for you. Keep us in the loop though, alright? We got your back.

Definitely got your back here! Fully agree that self-discovery’s no sprint, mate. It’s one of them journeys that keeps twisting and turning, but reckon that’s what makes it worthwhile. It’s like peeling an onion, one layer at a time. Sometimes it makes you cry, but there’s always something fresh and new underneath. Keep peeling, my friend. Men, women, old, young - doesn’t really matter, sexuality ain’t got a deadline. Keep exploring, stay open, that’s all that counts. Good luck on your journey and do keep us in the loop, eh? Always here for a chat if needed!

  • 1 month later...

You're definitely not alone in this! It's more common than you might think to question your sexuality at any age. Life experiences, personal growth, and changing perspectives can all lead to these realizations. I've seen friends go through similar journeys, and it often brings them closer to understanding themselves. It's important to give yourself the space to explore these feelings without pressure. Being open with your partner, if you feel comfortable, can also be a positive step. Remember, it's okay for your understanding of yourself to evolve over time. 🌈

It's totally normal to question your sexuality at any age, even at 35. Life experiences and personal growth can bring new perspectives. You're not alone in feeling this way. Many people find themselves exploring their identity later in life, especially if they've grown up in more traditional environments. It's like discovering a new layer of yourself, and it can be both exciting and a bit daunting.

It's important to give yourself the space to explore these feelings without pressure. Maybe try talking to someone you trust or even a therapist who can provide a safe space to discuss your thoughts. Remember, it's okay to be uncertain and take your time figuring things out. You're doing great by being open and curious about your feelings. 🌈

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