Confronting Your Anxiety: Top Tips on How to Come Out

Debbie Woods, UK Country Medical Lead and UKIE Head of Medical - General Medicines at Sanofi, spoke to myGwork about coming out, and revealed her top tips for those who feel anxious and are struggling to take the leap.

What advice would you give to someone nervous about coming out?

• First and foremost, it's OK and totally understandable to be nervous-this is a big deal for you, and it may be one of the most important things you have ever done or will ever do in your life, so a few nerves are to be expected.
• If you feel that you are ready to tell the world how fabulous you are (because you are fabulous), it might be worth practicing. Find a mirror and look at the fabulous person looking back at you and say the words that express what you are feeling and smile. Smile because you are opening the door to a new and wonderful world.
• It may be that you are worried about other people’s reactions, that it may not be positive. Remember that that is their emotion to own, not yours. Some people who love you might take a little time to get used to the new you, but they still love you.
• You might, and this is very rare, find some people who cannot accept you for who you are, remember, this is for them to work out, not you. Who knows, coming out may be the beginning of new friendships.
• Take small steps if that feels better for you. You don’t have to tell everyone at the same time, take it as slow or as fast as feels good for you, there is no rush.
• Whether you come out to one person, or you shout from the rooftops, it is your story to own.
• See “coming out” as an opportunity to embark upon a new journey. You may not have all the answers figured out right now, and that’s OK.
• Being nervous means it matters to you. When you decide the time is right for you, come out and shine-and always remember, you are fabulous.