Fear of Visibility

When I decided to write a book, I had an idea of what it would entail.

When my book strategist told methat my book should be a memoir and not self help, everything changed. A memoir? I did not want the most vulnerable parts of my life to be on display for everyone to read and judge. After much convincing from her, I reluctantly agreed. I knew that this would most likely be the hardest thing I have ever done.

We have all been there I think. We launch the website or project, post on social media, go on a date, apply for a job…..Crickets.

Fear of being visible is something that happens to most of us, if not all of us, at least once in our lives. It shows up whether we are in business, in a work environment, or in a relationship. It keeps us playing anddreaming small and unwilling to take risks.

It is often a fear of being vulnerable and showing yourself to the world, of taking responsibility for your desires. It can be fear of success, fear of making a stand or asking for what you need. It can show up as a fear of being vulnerable, as impostor syndrome, as fear of disappointing others, fear of being judged or rejected.  It is ultimately linked to our core belief of unworthiness.

Here is how I have addressed this fear in myself and for my clients.

1. Transform your limiting beliefs- What thoughts get triggered when you become more visible? Do you fuel those thoughts or do you challenge them? Most of our thoughts are based on how we have interpreted our experiences. We can often create powerful stories around why we shouldn’t put ourselves out there and most of those stories are not even true.

2. Take responsibility- Fear of being visible usually comes about when you are ready to step out of your comfort zone. You can probably find many excuses to avoid being seen. Challenge yourself by taking small acts of courage and get support from someone who truly has your best interest at heart. Small actions add up in powerful ways and create momentum.

3. Identify the consequences- It is important to know that when you are unwilling to face your fear of being seen, you will also have to give up on dreams, speaking your truth, and creating impact. Take time to journal on exactly what you would lose by staying hidden.

“You’ve got to find away to let peopleknow that you exist.”- Nikki Giovanni

I hope this helps you. It has helped me do one of the hardest things I have ever done, write a book.

We are in this together.

Walking with you,