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Coming Out Step-by-Step

From Ramon Johnson,
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What does it mean to come out?

Coming out is the process of personally accepting your sexuality and disclosing it to yourself, family, co-workers and friends. Coming out is different for every gay or bisexual person since there are varying degrees of sexuality (see Kinsey Scale) and the circumstances that surround our lifestyles differ.

Coming out is a confusing time for many people. Accepting your sexuality (or coming out to yourself) can bring about a number of fears. Will your family or friends stop loving you? Will you ever get married or have children? Will you be discriminated against or made fun of? These are all valid concerns mainly rooted in the fear of the unknown; which is why many reference coming out as being reborn. This is an opportunity for you to look introspectively and re-evaluate who you are and who you want to be.

Next step below...
  1. What does it mean to come out?
  2. Create a personal inventory when coming out.
  3. Know that you are not alone.
  4. Deal with stereotypes, discrimination and hate against gays.
  5. Tell family and friends you're gay when you're ready.
  6. Don't give up on marriage or children.
  7. Learn about gay love, relationships and sex.
  8. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

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