Coming out is the term most commonly used in reference to telling others of your sexual orientation, be it gay, bisexual or transgender. The chances are very high that you will want to or even need to inform friends, family and others of your sexuality at some point in the future. Coming out can seem very daunting and is often one of the most difficult things anyone from the LGBT community will go through. While it may seem extremely difficult it is not impossible.

Coming out should not be rushed. It is very important that you do not 'come out' on a whim. Be sure that you are gay, bisexual or transgender before you decide to tell others. Be sure that you are comfortable with your own sexuality and have come to accept it yourself before you tell other people. You should never feel pressurised or forced into coming out. Do it when it feels right and when there is a suitable time to tell people. If you miss an opportunity then don't beat yourself up about it. Move on and tell yourself that another good time will come in the future.

A lot of people choose to tell a close friend about their sexuality before telling their family members. Telling friends can be a good practise for when it comes to telling parents, siblings and other family members. Remember that if you have a bad experience when coming out to someone it doesn't mean every time will be as bad. Do not let that put you off telling other people. Something important to consider when telling your friends is that the chances are very high they will be totally accepting of it. If they are not then were they ever your friends? True friends will still be there for you no matter what your sexuality.

While no one should feel forced into revealing their true colours and who they really are it is likely that at some point you will want to. Hiding your sexuality often involves lying and deceiving people close to you. You will need to consider whether hiding your sexuality is easier and fairer on both you and those close to you than accepting and sharing it.

If you are finding it difficult to tell people you care about and don't feel that you have the courage or strength to then why not talk to someone who you are less close to? Perhaps talking to a teacher or co-worker who you know well enough to trust will help you. A lot of people are now choosing to reveal their sexuality to close friends through text, email and social networking. It can be a very good place to start.