It may be funny watching Jamaica “act straight” for his uncle, but lying about who you are is no joke. Rhythm City, weekdays at 7PM.
Here are five tips to help you get out the proverbial closet.
1. Do it as early as possible.
Hiding who you are from your family is not healthy. It could lead to depression and anxiety so it’s important to talk to your family as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more you’ll have to lie to keep your secret – and that is no way to live.
2. Start with telling someone really close to you.
It could be your cousin, your favourite aunt or your best friend. This will help you practice exactly what you want to say and how you want to say it. Your close friend will probably already know so it should be easier to get through. Let your friend support you through this and if necessary ask him or her to accompany you when talking to your parents.
Related: Palesa recently came out to her mother in the finale of Umlilo.
3. Timing is key.
Don’t just blurt it out at any random time. Pick a time when your family is relaxed and when you all have enough time to talk as much as you need to. So make sure nobody needs to rush anywhere in the next ten minutes and you’re not expecting any visitors. Tell your parents that you need their undivided attention.
4. Be clear. Don’t laugh or try to make a joke about it.
If you want your parents to take you seriously and respect you, you need to be assertive. Don’t let them sway you into “thinking about it” or trying to be in a relationship with someone from the opposite sex. Encourage them to ask you as many questions as they need to and answer them honestly.
5. Give them time to process the information.
Your family loves you so give them the benefit of the doubt. Chances are, they will not react as negatively as you may think. If after some time, they still won’t accept it, don’t try to change for them. Remember, you have nothing to be ashamed of. The first step in living your best life, is accepting who you are.
Do you have any other tips for Jamaica?
Watch Rhythm City, weekdays at 7PM. Follow the show on Twitter and like the Facebook page.