Here's a topic I think about from time to time:
What unexpected positives has dressing brought about in your life? I'm not really thinking of things like "It makes me happy," or "It gets me in touch with my feminine side" - although, if you didn't expect these things, then I guess they qualify. When I ponder this question, I'm thinking of stuff that I was pleasantly surprised to discover along the way. For example...
-Because I am a crossdresser, I waste less money on junk food. This is a two-fold benefit. Not only am I less likely to buy unhealthy food because I want to continue to fit into all of the clothes I have, but I've also applied a simple rule to any luxury food purchases: I always ask myself "Would I rather have this (Taco Bell/Bag of Cheetos/Carton of Ice Cream), or would I rather spend this money on (Lipgloss/Pumps?Dresses)? Being on a budget, it's an easily self-moderated conversation.
-Because I crossdress, I find it easier to go to the gym regularly. Again, I'm motivated by my desire to look the best I can, and continue to fit into the clothes I have. Also, there are always women there that inspire me to keep working hard to look good, like them.
-Because I crossdress, I've learned how to sew. I don't mean quilting or anything. I just mean when buttons pop and stitches separate, I can't exactly ask my mom to fix my new dress. So I had to learn some basics in an area that I, quite frankly, never would have ventured into had it not been for my hobby.
These are just a couple that come to mind off the top of my head. Has anyone else encountered benefits that they totally didn't expect, but have come to enjoy nonetheless??