When I started this newsletter, I wasn’t sure I could commit to writing it every month. But the stories, feedback, and insights you’ve shared with me have kept me going—and I’m so glad I did. In case you missed an edition, you can catch up on all previous issues here.
Together, we’ve explored what it means to “unhide,” and this journey has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. It even inspired me to write a second book, Unhide & Seek, to dig deeper into the ways we hide, the types of hiders, and how we can create healthier workplaces by unhiding.
Here are some of the lessons I’ve learned over this past year. Your insights remind me that unhiding isn’t just something we do for ourselves—it’s a powerful way to create spaces where we can all thrive.
1. Unhiding is Powerful, but it Takes Courage
One of the biggest takeaways from this year has been the courage it takes to unhide. Many of you have shared brave stories about revealing a hidden passion, personal challenge, or new perspective. Each act of unhiding has created a stronger, more connected community.
Personal Story: Early in my career, I hid aspects of myself, believing that keeping up a “perfect” image would help me succeed. But it only distanced me from others and left me exhausted. Through this newsletter, I’ve had the chance to share my journey and invite each of you to unhide a little more every day.
2. There Are Many Types of Hiders
I’ve learned that everyone “hides” in their own way. From blending in to avoid judgment to overachieving to mask insecurities, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. This insight led me to define different “types of hiders,” which became a core part of my latest book. Recognizing our unique ways of hiding can help us safely start to unhide.
Lesson Learned: Embracing the different ways people hide allows us to be more compassionate leaders, colleagues, and friends. Knowing that unhiding looks different for each person, we can create safer, more supportive spaces for everyone.
3. Unhiding in the Workplace Creates Real Belonging: Leaders Go First
A recurring theme has been the need for workplaces that foster belonging, not just diversity. Many of you shared that while “being yourself” is encouraged, there’s often still a gap between the ideal and reality. I’ve learned that true belonging starts when we feel safe to unhide—when we’re not just allowed but welcomed to share our different perspectives and experiences.
Why It Matters: When leaders practice unhiding and model vulnerability, they set the stage for teams to connect meaningfully. True inclusion goes beyond policy—it’s about creating spaces where we feel seen and valued for who we are.
4. Unhiding is a Journey, Not a Destination
Unhiding is an ongoing process, not about one big reveal or a sudden transformation. Instead, it’s a series of small steps we take each day. From sharing a personal story in a meeting to opening up about a challenge, unhiding is something we build on over time.
Try This: Think of one thing you’ve been hiding—maybe an idea, story, or unique perspective. I invite you to share it here.
Thank You for a Year of Connection
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your stories inspired Unhide & Seek, a book that dives deeper into how we hide, why we hide, and how we can unhide in meaningful ways. I’d love to hear from you—what lessons have you learned about hiding and unhiding?
As we head into our next year of Unhiding, I’m excited to keep learning from you and finding new ways we can unhide to create lasting change. In the coming episodes, we’ll dive into even more practical ways to bring Unhidden Leadership into your workplace and life.
ASK: If you know forward-thinking leaders or organizations that could benefit from the tools of unhiding, please let me know.
Here’s to another year of unhiding and thriving together.
Warmest, Ruth
Thank you for being part of the UNHIDING community.
