You have the tendency to hide the value in which you place certain things, as if you're protecting yourself in the chance things go wrong.I get it. I've done the same...But please don't put your Gard up. Let them see the real you.

The scene made me realize that I not only hide parts of myself, but hide things that are important to me.

       I've known for a long time, that I have the tendency to hide my goofy and sarcastic traits from others. It wasn't surprising to realize that I mask my real personality until I'm comfortable around someone. What surprised me was the realization that I downplay certain feelings and dreams. I downplay dreams and aspirations that mean the most to me, in attempt to save myself pain.

      For a long time, I hid my writing away. I didn't tell my family or friends about the books I like to write. I couldn't admit to the hours I spend writing, because I feared their reaction. Not the reaction they would have in the present, but rather the one that awaited in the future.

      Failing to achieve your dreams is crushing. But even more upsetting is letting someone see the resulting devastation.

       If I kept my passion for writing to myself and never get to publish a book, then I only risk disappointing myself. But to have people know of my dreams, and to fail to achieve them, places me in a position to be pitied. I don't like to be pitied. I don't want people to think I'm dissatisfied with my life if I never publish a book. Even if I were satisfied, the idea that someone might feel sad for me makes me uneasy.

       So, instead of admitting the extent of my desires, I hide behind a facade of disinterest. I shrug. I say, it is, what is, as if my chest isn't swirling with hope. I do this and think I'm protecting myself. But am I just unconsciously holding myself back from reaching my full potential?

Think about hiding in a different context.

       Think about the way you would feel, if your partner forced you into the bedroom closet when their family visited. Think about the way you would feel to be kept a secret. Am I unworthy? And think of the way your partner would feel. Why are they hiding you? Are they ashamed? Does acknowledging your connection in front of their loved ones place them in a vulnerable position? A position to be hurt? Do they feel as though they'll be ridiculed for having a partner like you? Do they think they're too good for you? Do they think you're too good for them?

       The same can be said with our hope and dreams. When we keep our deepest desires hidden, we are subconsciously telling ourselves that there is a reason they ought not be presented to the world. It unintentionally creates the feeling that our dreams are unrealistic, unattainable or child-like. We feel shame or embarrassment towards the idea of voicing our truth, because we fear failure. By doing this we add unnecessary barriers towards their attainment. We add hurdles towards our goals, that further decrease our faith and push us towards deeper hiding spots.

       Don't be ashamed to voice your dreams. There's nothing wrong with dreaming big. There's also nothing wrong with being honest. You can voice your dreams and admit that the chances of everything working out are unlikely. You can admit that the odds aren't in your favour, but that you want to give it a try anyways, because you see your worth. Because you know that you deserve to allow yourself the chance of pursuing your wildest dreams.

       Don't pretend something isn't important to you, to shield yourself from pain. You're only limiting your potential by doing this.

      Dream big. Dream big and do so unashamedly.

      If you find yourself struggling to voice what you really want. Whether that be in relation to a career, education, a crush or taking the next in a relationship... My comment section is a judgement free zone. Feel free to tell me what you want. Tell me about the things and people you dream of. Aspirations you might be afraid to voice. Maybe telling a stranger is the first step to telling those most important to you.

      I'm listening.

     Keep dreaming <3