One day before National Coming Out Day - WAIT! STOP!

Sure, there are some great reasons to come out - about anything.

But before we decide to tell the world your secret, it's important to consider a few things:

1. Will this affect others?

Although we may be ready to come out, our friends and family may not. It is important to come out first to those close to us, before springing the news on the world. Our loved ones deserve to hear it first hand.

Our loved ones also deserve to be a part of the discussion on coming out. Although the decisions are still ours, our friends and family need to be able to talk with us about it.

2. Is this dangerous?

There are times when coming out can adversely affect our lives. We have to consider the risks, and whether we're willing to take them.

We must ask ourselves about the people to whom we're coming out. Will they be a physical threat to us? Will our homes and livelihoods be threatened? If so, how will they be threatened? And how will we deal with these threats?

As exhilarating as the feeling must be, we must "count the cost" of living openly.
 

3. Am I ready?

Coming out - about any aspect of our lives - is rarely done all at once. We must admit to ourselves who we are. Then we may come out to some close, trusted friends or relatives, or perhaps a professional counselor. Coming out is not a one-time event - it is an ongoing process of self-discovery and sharing.

Consider these things in anticipation of National Coming Out Day. Try to not overreach. Instead, try to gradually broaden your boundaries.