It’s not unusual for writers to remain hidden. There is something about writing that attracts people who don’t want to be on camera, on stage, or behind a microphone.

The writing world is also home to many ghostwriters, who by definition are hidden behind someone else’s name. And then there are novelists, who create characters and worlds that exist apart from the writer’s identity.

All of this is well and good. If you’re a writer who likes to stay a little bit hidden, more power to you. That being said, I challenge you to let the world see your true self a bit more. Even though you might feel more comfortable staying hidden, what would it feel like to challenge yourself and put your voice and face out into the world a little more? Is there perhaps something you’re missing by indulging your shyness?

E. B. White said, “All writing is communication; creative writing is communication through revelation—it is the self escaping into the open. No writer long remains incognito.”

You’ve made a difference with your words. Now imagine the even greater difference you can make when you take a step outside your comfort zone. This might mean doing podcast interviews, creating videos, or even hosting your own show.

By challenging yourself and coming out into the open a little more, you might encourage someone else to step outside of their comfort zone as well. Strange and wonderful things happen when we confront fear and do the thing we’re afraid to do.