I'm a writer who puts it all out there. If you read my work, you know the real me. Complicated, messy, and flawed.

The risk is real.

I think it's a bigger risk for woman than it is for men.

Because I work with clients who want to tell vulnerable stories and create art from their trauma, this comes up a lot. For those who are worried that letting out the dirty laundry isn't the right move?

There are steps.

Put it down, see if that's enough.

Share it with a trusted friend, see if that's enough.

Edit it more.

Share it with the world.

Sometimes you've got art, and the risks are the risks. As long as you're aware, you're going to be okay. One good friend, reaching out to you, can help stimy the negative feelings that come from huge amounts of backlash.

You've got true friends, and true fans, those are the people who count in the end. What you decide to share with them, is a gift.