How to 'Come Out' As an Atheist Without Destroying Your Relationships

There are a lot of reasons you might prefer to keep your religious beliefsor lack thereofto yourself.

Atheists can sometimes be stereotyped as jerks who want to debate or discount other peoples religious beliefs.

Instead, its about transparency and truthfulness.

Will your parents expect a certain faith leader to officiate your wedding?

Are they expecting you to baptize your child?

Do you feel like youre hiding something from your family and friends?

Is there a right way to go about minimizing conflict with the believers in your life?

Here are some tips and reminders to make coming out as an atheist as seamless as possible.

Will someone you care about likely react negatively?

What will this mean for family and community traditions?

How will this impact your day-to-day life?

InComing Out Atheist, Christina frames your decision around the difference between secrecy and privacy.

Keep in mind the questions above about defining your atheism as practically as possible.

For now, focus on I statements so you can keep the conversation as grounded as possible.

Like with any difficult conversation, its helpful to physically rehearse a script.

Say your lines in the mirror, or write out talking points in your notes on your phone.

Pay attention to the relationship first

Take this conversation one step at a time.

Remind your loved ones that who you are isnt changing.

So, are you preparing for a point-by-point refutation of the family religion right away?

Or are you simply expressing your desire to personally abstain from certain religious practices?

Confrontation might be inevitable, so be ready to pick your battles.

Make it clear that your coming out is not an invitation for group soul-searching.

That counts for a lot.