The Queer Contest 146: First Impression – How Much Does It Really Matter?

👋 Hello beautiful souls of the Hive LGBTQ+ community! 🌈✨

Welcome to The Queer Contest 146 — and this week, we're diving into something new: First Impressions.

We’ve all been there — that split second when you meet someone for the first time. In that moment, your brain does a quick scan: What are they wearing? How do they speak? Do they smile? Do they look familiar?

And before we even realize it… we’ve already made a judgment.

But here’s what I’ve been wondering lately:

What’s the first thing you think about someone when you meet them for the first time?
Do you think that first impression affects how you interact with them?
And most importantly — as you get to know them — does your opinion change, or do you hold onto that first feeling?

But here’s the thing — first impressions have misled me more times than I can count. And theres a saying,

"First impressions are always a lie"

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When First Impressions Lied

I once met someone whose father was rich, seeing how he cattied himself, i yhought thst he would be a bully or prideful. Weeks later, this same person turned out to be one of the kindest, most understanding dude I’ve ever met. We became close friends. That experience really challenged how much weight I give to my initial thoughts.

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Growth Changed My Viww

I used to believe that my first impression was always right. But life, people, and experiences taught me otherwise. I’ve learned to leave room for surprises — the good kind. Now, I meet people with curiosity rather than conclusions. I interact with people while still holding space for the possibility that I could be wrong — or wonderfully surprised.

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Does It Affect My Interactions?

Yes, first impressions can affect how I behave toward someone — but only at the beginning. If the person seems cold, I might not open up quickly. But over time, as I get to know them better, my approach evolves. I believe everyone deserves a second impression, especially in a world where many of us wear masks to protect ourselves.

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Conclusion

Although most First Impressions are a lie, either to impress or to find out more about others, it is best to observe. Being queer has also shaped how I view first impressions. People often assume things about me based on my appearance, voice, or expression. I’ve learned not to do the same to others. We are all imperfect beings — and what you see at first glance is often just the surface. The real colour comes later, either good or bad.

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Thanks to @queer-coffee for this week’s powerful topic.
I’m grateful for every chance to reflect, connect, and grow.