One of the most beneficial steps you can take as you begin coming out is to listen to the stories of others who have come out already. While everyone's coming out experience is different, there are several phases that are commonly experienced by most everyone who comes out as gay, lesbian, or bi-sexual.

The first few phases of the coming out process can be filled with feelings of fear and loneliness. Many people experience great uncertainty about what the future will hold. Will their families accept them? Will their friends reject them? Will they be fired from their job? Sometimes I think we actually create a greater fear than actually exists. It's very easy to under estimate the love and acceptance our family and friends have for us. It's also very easy to get wrapped up in your own ego thinking that by revealing that you are gay or lesbian is some how going to create great drama in the world. And then, when it doesn't, you might almost feel disappointed.

Whatever you might be feeling, I highly recommend that you watch the videos of coming out stories below. These are but a few of the hundreds of coming out videos posted on Youtube. Most of the videos I saw were posted by young people, most of whom were male. There are some female stories and a few from older adults. No matter the age, you will hear many common themes that I'm sure you will be able to relate to.