When Being a Little Becomes Too Much of a Headache

So here's the thing, I'm in my mid-20s and have been experimenting with being a little for about two years now. It started as an interesting kink, but over time it’s become more than just play; it’s sort of a lifestyle at this point. My partner, who is older and has experience with DDLG dynamics, helps me explore this side of myself deeply. We both enjoy it, no question. But there's a twist, I'm transitioning from female to male. And let me tell you, that complicates things in ways I didn't anticipate. Before starting my transition medically, everything was fun and flirty. The dynamic worked because being little meant playing with boundaries and identity. It felt like I could escape into this other persona and it made the reality of my transitioning journey feel a bit lighter. But once I began HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and started growing facial hair, it became trickier. Suddenly, there’s a part of me that wants to be seen as grown up, masculine, and strong, yet here I am still exploring this little side. I've had moments where the roleplay felt too real, like people are confusing my transition with being childish or not mature enough. My partner has been supportive but there's a tension when it comes to how we continue with these dynamics as my physicality changes. On one hand, I love that I can still be vulnerable and playful within this framework. On the other hand, I want respect for who I am transitioning into being, which sometimes feels at odds with the little persona. So here's my question: Is it normal to feel conflicted about a kink or dynamic when your real-life identity is shifting? Am I overthinking things, or should I have a serious talk with my partner about where we go from here? What are some of your thoughts and experiences dealing with something similar?