The moments when you pause, look around, and think—Is this really my life?
This month, I had at least two powerful pinch-me moments—reminders just of how far I’ve come, and why the message of unhiding matters now more than ever.
A Dream Realized in Cape Town, South Africa
Five years ago, I stood on those shores of Cape Town and whispered a dream:
Someday I’ll speak here about unhiding, inclusion, and belonging.
Last week, I stood on that stage as a keynote speaker at the WTM Africa Conference, sharing how hiding holds us back—from connection, from thriving, from fully showing up.
I watched the message land. Heads nodded. Eyes welled.
And I quietly thought: Pinch me.
Unhiding on the Trails of Rwanda
Just days later came another moment—this time in Rwanda.
A vision board goal: trekking with gorillas.
As we navigated muddy trails, I asked a porter to hold my hand—my little hand.
Years ago, I would’ve been too ashamed to ask. Too determined to prove I didn’t need help.
But I’ve learned that asking doesn’t make you weak. It means you’re ready to be seen.
That was a pinch-me moment, too.
Why These Moments Matter
These moments remind us how far we’ve come.
They help us celebrate what once felt impossible.
They invite us to stop hiding—and start living more fully.
And in the workplace, these moments of pause aren’t just personal—they’re essential.
For leaders, they’re reminders to model openness. To create space for others to grow.
Because when we stop hiding, we unlock potential—not just in ourselves, but across teams and cultures.
That’s when teams begin to thrive—through trust, belonging, and shared purpose.
So here’s your invitation:
Pause. Reflect.
Ask yourself: Where was I five years ago? One year ago?
What would my past self be proud of today?
Because you may already be living a piece of the life you once dreamed of.
And that deserves to be seen.
With gratitude, Ruth
P.S. If this message resonates, I’d love to hear what your recent pinch-me moment has been—or what you’re working toward. Let‘s connect.
We can’t do it singlehandedly.
Curious about bringing this message of unhiding to your team or event?
You can learn more about my speaking, coaching, and consulting work here—or reach out directly.
Because creating cultures of belonging starts with one bold conversation at a time.
Thank you for being part of the UNHIDING community.
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