Many people are aware of their sexuality, be it heterosexual or homosexual very early in their lives, often times before they have ever had any sexual experiences. However, some people are not sure of their sexual identities until late in their lives. They may even have feelings for both sexes. Further, sometimes people are concerned about the reactions of their loved ones, friends and employers if they should decide to come out. For all of these reasons coming out lesbian, bisexual coming out or gay coming out can be difficult decisions to make.
Is it normal to be a lesbian, to be bisexual or gay? Are there any signs that will automatically tell you if you are lesbian, bisexual or gay? Is there a particular time when you will know that coming out lesbian is right for you? If you think you are heterosexual, but occasionally have feelings for someone of your own sex, should you think of bisexual coming out? Should you be thinking about gay coming out if you are a young man and you have had one homosexual experience?
Only you can know if a particular sexual orientation is right for you and only you can know if coming out lesbian is right for you. The same can be said of bisexual coming out and gay coming out. There are militant homosexual groups who will judge people depending on whether those people want to make a statement about their sexuality or not. There are also religious and political organizations which will reveal people's sexual preferences, because it helps the aims of their religious and political groups. Do not allow such groups to make your decisions for you.
You do not have to jump into a sexual relationship or into coming out lesbian. The same can be said of bisexual coming out or gay coming out. There are many emotional, social and legal ramifications to coming out lesbian. In some states, coming out lesbian, bisexual coming out and gay coming out may result in social shunning and the loss of employment and legal rights.
There are also practical considerations. Are you financially independent? If you must make changes in your living arrangement due to coming out lesbian will you be able to afford moving? What about health and life insurance? If your employer should terminate you because of your coming out lesbian, do you have sufficient funds while you look for a new employment or to initiate legal action to regain your job?
Most importantly, however, making a decision about coming out lesbian based on the needs of others may do you significant emotional and mental harm. You will have to be strong enough to stand by yourself if family and friends you thought you could count on should turn away from you. It is wise when grappling with a decision about coming out lesbian or coming out in other alternative lifestyles to do so only after thoughtful consideration.
It may be helpful to investigate the lifestyle via the internet, literature or support groups. You might want to consider counseling to help you make this important decision. Counseling can also help you decide how to broach the subject with your loved ones. Many times, family counseling can be useful in helping parents and siblings to become comfortable with homosexuality and bisexuality.
Ultimately, coming out lesbian, bisexual coming out or gay coming out must be a well thought out decision based upon your own journey of self-discovery. Coming out lesbian cannot be done on anyone's timetable but your own.