CAN WE EMULATE “THE G.O.A.T.?

Tom Brady once said something super deep: “be proud of the person you see in the mirror every day, because that’s who you’ve gotta make happy.”

It’s not just about sports or fame—this is about being real with yourself and living in a way that screams YOU!

For transgender folks, this hits hard. In a world that’s still figuring out how to be cool with everyone, the way trans people live, contribute, and carry themselves tells a story. It shapes their own path and how others see their community. By being true, doing good, and staying strong, they can flip stereotypes, help people get it, and light the way for others. This isn’t going to happen overnight. It’s going to take time.

First off,  you’ve gotta let go of any anger that may be inside of you. If your cup is constantly full and anything is causing it to overflow, then seek guidance to be able to handle the inevitable slings and arrows that will come your way on occasion. It’s hard to make change, if not even impossible to make change, if there’s no room for change to be within you first.

>Change the person in the mirror first before you seek to change others.

It’s all about being proud of who you are. You gotta look in the mirror and respect the person staring back.

That often means a brave journey to match who they are inside with how they show up to the world. It’s not just about feeling good—it’s about owning your truth.

When you’re confident and real, it’s like a superpower that shuts down judgment. People can’t help but respect someone who’s solid in who they are. That’s the foundation for making a real difference and showing the world you’re here to add value, not drama.

Then there’s this idea that the way you live teaches others. If you wanna change minds, get out there and be part of the world. That could mean killing it at your job, helping out with a cause, voting, or just being a solid friend or neighbor.

I often get asked how I handle living where I do because it’s a common perception that I’m surrounded by those that are totally opposed to my lifestyle.

First of all, I don’t dictate my life based on mainstream news because that’s often very very biased. I live my life with supreme confidence about myself. I know who I am and no one is going to change that. It is my superpower. I go in any situation with confidence but not arrogance. I don’t let little things like misgendering me cause me any pain. I’m happy, bubbly, and I’m looking to break down barriers by the energy that I emulate with other people. A smile often goes a long way and starting that process.

When trans people show up as awesome coworkers, kind friends, or active community members, their identity isn’t the main focus—their actions are. That’s how you break down stereotypes.

By being a total rockstar in life, you make it clear that being trans is just one part of who you are, not the whole story. Over time, people get used to seeing trans folks as regular, awesome people, and that’s how acceptance grows. However, again, it takes time.

Lastly, living your life well sets an example for others coming up behind you. For trans people, this means handling tough stuff with class, showing the world who you are through how you live, and helping others understand by just being you. Staying strong, growing as a person, and having real talks with people who don’t get it yet—that’s powerful.

Every trans person who lives openly and does good makes it easier for the next generation. They’re not just living for themselves; they’re helping everyone after them be seen in a better light.

So, yeah, Tom Brady’s words are like a game plan for trans folks to make a difference. Be proud of who you are, get out there and do awesome things, and show the world what’s up.

It’s not just about feeling good—it’s about changing how people see you and your community.

By living authentically and contributing, trans people can help make a world where they’re not just accepted but truly valued as part of the big picture.

Dr. Gwen Patrone