hey everyone.... So I have mostly been in denial about myself and have recently started to feel how isolating that can be. This is a very timid first attempt at in any way engaging in discourse about being “different.” Sorry for the tepid first post, but I guess finding people who have gone through similar situations would be hugely helpful. I’m a 32 year old man, have a masters, live in a largely conservative area and have an awesomely supportive family who knows nothing because I have chosen to just leave it that way. I’ve always known I’ve liked guys but always found it easier to just be in relationships with women. I however haven’t been dating for a while and realized I think that that’s because there’s this whole piece of who I am that I have just refused to acknowledge as I have terrible anxiety and a constant fear of standing out and/ or being rejected. Any advice or just a sympathetic ear would be epic!
Welcome to EC DoverDan! I recently come out to myself and like you spent a long time trying to understand what I really am. I'm still trying to figure things out and found this site while searching the web. I'm not sure I can give you a lot of advice but what I can tell you this is one of the best support sites I've ever joined. Take some time reading the post, I'm sure they will help you. And if you ask questions, you will get a lot of response.
Welcome! There are an awful lot of folks just like you here... that's what the community is about. And quite a few who have waited until their 30s, 40s, 50s or later to start thinking about it. So you're far from alone!
Thanks for reaching out! I wish everyone had the confidence and support to just live how they want but it really does take a lot to make it happen I guess
Hey you might find that around here you aren't as different as you thought. Welcome to EC, dont worry you are in good company. It is never too late to come out and be your true self. Posting on here is a massive first step so be proud of yourself
Thanks for the kind words! I still feel super exposed even here where nobody really knows me, not sure how to move past that but thanks either way
I think most people do when they first join, I know I did. I had no clue what I was doing. I would say just have a look around, read some posts, comment on some if you like, if you want to talk about something specific feel free to make a thread. Everyone is friendly, chat to people and in time you will feel better but take your time it will come.
Thank you again for the kind words everyone. I hope I just have the fortitude to stick to it and not just be miserable and repressed all my life
