It may seem silly, but this past weekend, I decided to try something new—I went down a water slide for the first time ever. As I zipped down and plunged into the pool, I felt a rush of freedom and joy. It wasn’t just the ride that brought exhilaration; it was the liberating feeling of not hiding my hand, my limb difference. For so long, the fear of someone seeing my little hand kept me from trying things (and having fun!). I was terrified that someone would see my hand, stare, or say something hurtful; I was always on guard. Unhiding unlocked the door to freedom.
What’s holding you back from thriving?
Hiding isn’t just about concealing our differences; it’s about missing out on life’s experiences.
And unhiding is about more than just revealing our differences. It’s about fully participating in life and embracing new experiences without fear or shame. We discover new joys and freedoms previously out of reach by stepping out of our comfort zones.
Practical Tips for Embracing Freedom
These may sound too easy, but how often do we actually do them?
1. Try Something New: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone. These small steps can lead to big changes, whether it’s a new activity, a hobby, or simply speaking up more. (Let me know what you try this month.)
2. Be Present: Fully engage in each moment and let it imprint in your mind. Embrace the here and now, and let yourself be fully immersed in your experiences. And yes, it’s okay to take a selfie to capture the moment!
3. Reflect on Your Journey: Take some time to reflect on what you’ve been hiding and why. Journal your thoughts or talk to a friend about your experiences. Celebrate the steps you’ve taken towards unhiding.
Why This Matters
When we unhide, we free ourselves and inspire others to do the same. By sharing our stories and living as our best selves, we create a ripple effect that fosters openness and acceptance.
Here’s to bringing our best selves forward and embracing all life’s wonderful experiences!
***Stay tuned for my new book, Unhide & Seek, coming out this summer, which asks you to think about what you’re hiding!
