24 Coming Out Tips

1
Never come out in an argument or to hurt someone.

2
Never come out in a moving vehicle.

3
A person is more intelligent than a group of people; come out to people one at a time and in private

4
People who are ignorant may say things initially that they don't realize are painful to hear. Remember they are simply unaware and in a state of surprise.

5
They may ALREADY know

6
People have to deal with (a): The issue of gay stuff and (b): you as a person and (c): the combination of the two since you probably don't fit the stereotype they have about .

7
Be SOBER.

8
Don't have your lover with you. This is not "let's make a deal" - More surprises are not good.

9
Be ready for them to need time and space to think about things before any discussion takes place.

10
Be ready for them to drill you with questions that may or may not offend you. ( see point #4)

11
Sometimes it's easier to read about an issue than to admit you are uneducated. Have a phone #, a book, a pamphlet or other resource that can be called upon when you're not around.

12
Its your life to live, You only have one, and the bottom line is that you are going to continue living as a gay person no matter what their reaction is.

13
It may not be a bad idea to have smelling salts ready.

14
There are people who will never be supportive no matter what is said.

15
If your audience has that deer in the headlights look, don't make any quick moves.

16
BREATHE.

17
No two coming out experiences are ever the same.

18
Don't plan on doing anything else for the rest of the day/ night.

19
People will need a lot of time, for the most part to really think about things.

20
Always have an escape plan. You may not need it, but if you do, you wont be surprised. Have a place to crash for the night and money you can get to in case a worst case scenario does occur.

21
Have resources for you to call. You need support too.

22
Just because you come out once, does not mean you won't have to do it again and again.

23
Do not try to answer questions about Richard Simmons, Rosie O' Donnel, Keanu Reeves, Tom Cruise or anyone else. this is you we are talking about.