I’ve been approached about speaking at BlogHer Nashville. I think I could share an interesting perspective, as could most of us, but I wonder about shedding my cloak.
There’s no rule that says I have to use my name, but I’m out there for all to see, to judge.
As bad as a comment might be, it’s forgotten, maybe deleted. If someone says something to your face, it would be much harder to forget.
Am I brave enough to come out of hiding? It’s one thing with you, you read and comment, or email, and we have a connection. Those whom I’ve met or spoken to, I trusted you enough to do so. Revealing myself to a larger audience is both daunting and exciting.
Do the benefits outweigh the consequences? Or would participating mean I’m just indulging my ego?
katharinewink 
I used to blog anonymously. Then I had to come out publicly. I had to go back and purge my blog of certain stories. I got emails saying, “I miss that other guy. I miss his voice.” It changed everything.
I’m not saying for better or worse, just that it changed everything. I have a filter now on everything I write. I finally shut down my blog. But, I’ve made friends and done business because of it. And I’ve occasionally gone anonymous other places. I just look at is as an evolution.
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I wouldn’t do it. I’ve only read your blog for a week now, but the visceral, gritty reality of your words might change – and I don’t want that. Obviously, this is your decision – but I know I prefer things the way they are. Never underestimate the cruelty of other people, I say don’t give them the option.
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I was under the impression that you blogged anonymously mainly so that your husband and/or family wouldn’t find out how you feel about what you write on here. If you speak publicly at a very public conference, won’t they come over here and read all this?
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I blog semi-anonymously in that I don’t advertise the fact that I blog to friends, colleagues or family. Having said that, I don’t blog about anything that could be construed controversial by friends, colleagues or family. You have the “luxury” of anonymity in that you can be 100% honest (to yourself) about any subject you care to cover. That’s a lot to lose. Have you considered, given the prestige and honour of the invite (?), wearing a Lone Ranger mask or a disguise of some sort? It’s a serious suggestion, but could cover both bases!
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If I had it to do all over again, I would blog anonymously as you do. I absolutely agree with everyone up there, it changes your voice when you know your readers know you. I can definitely understand the temptation, the ego boost, how amazing it would feel to get up on that stage…. and I’m not saying it’s a bad thing…. but you would have to be prepared to lose this.
One of my posts is being published in a book, and I got an email asking me yesterday if I’d like to put my real last name in the book. I very much wanted to – it would look so great on a resume!
But in the end, I said no.
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My gut reaction was a resounding…don’t do it.
But it’s totally your choice.
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I think my blog would be a lot better if it was an anonymous one.
I’ll be interested to see which choice you make.
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Up to you–but I bet you’d have to censor yourself after all your new fans come a’readin….
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I have to agree with the majority…your unknown status (although I suspect we have mutual acquaintances)gives you great freedom. I can’t be nearly as snarky as I want–too many folks know me.
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And really, at this point, how would coming out help you in any way?
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