This is what a client of mine said when she was asked what language she was going to learn during lockdown.

Unlike most physical transformations, (such as hair removal, make-up and clothing and even, to some extent, reconstructive surgery) all of which have immediate discernable results, acquiring a voice that is congruent with identity requires more patience and resilience from trans men and women. Whilst habituating the fundamentals and foundations for healthy voicing is crucial, (see my post, Wax on...wax off), one of the biggest frustrations is the time required to practice and embed these vocal habits, with progress sometimes so gradual it is difficult to recognise and measure.

Everyone is grappling with the restrictions mandated in response to COVID-19. The people who seem better able to enjoy this period are those who turn the adversity of isolation to an advantage by investing in their own personal development (see my husband’s blog post, Embracing Lock-In). As such, social distancing and self-isolation affords trans people with a particularly unique opportunity. It provides time to create a new habit of voice. Another silver lining is that it needn’t be a solitary endeavour. Professional help can be obtained remotely via technology (see my post, Togetherness – Do we really need it?).

Learning a new voice - It’s personal, it’s vital and it’s life changing. What a brilliant idea!