Rebuilding Sexual Confidence After Feeling Embarrassed About Fetishes
After experiencing feelings of shame or humiliation surrounding your desires, it can be challenging to regain your self-esteem and confidence in your sexual identity. However, understanding why you have these feelings and taking steps towards accepting yourself can help you feel better about who you are and what you enjoy. Here are some strategies that may be helpful:
1. Educate Yourself: Researching your specific fetish can help you gain knowledge about it and understand why others might find it appealing. Learning more about it can also dispel any myths or misconceptions you have about it being "abnormal" or "weird." For example, if you are attracted to feet, you could read articles about foot worship or learn more about the history of eroticism around feet in different cultures.
2. Talk To Someone You Trust: Sharing your feelings and experiences with someone who is nonjudgmental and supportive can help you process them and develop greater empathy for yourself. They can also offer insights into how they view your fetish and provide validation for its existence. Consider a therapist, friend, or partner with whom you can openly discuss this aspect of your life.
3. Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is essential for feeling good overall. Engaging in activities like exercise, meditation, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep can improve your mood and boost your self-confidence. Additionally, setting boundaries, practicing positive affirmations, and engaging in solo sexual play can all contribute to rebuilding sexual confidence.
4. Explore Your Desires: Instead of suppressing your urges or hiding them from partners, try exploring them within safe, consensual contexts. This can involve roleplaying scenarios that incorporate your fetish or seeking out erotica or pornography that features it. It's important to remember that fetishes are not inherently bad or wrong; they just need to be respected and embraced.
5. Seek Professional Help: If you find that shame or embarrassment persist despite efforts to address it on your own, consider speaking with a mental health professional specializing in sex therapy. A therapist can work with you to uncover the underlying issues contributing to your feelings of discomfort and teach you strategies for navigating these experiences. By following these steps, you may be able to regain control over your emotions surrounding your sexual identity and feel more comfortable expressing who you truly are. Remember that everyone has unique desires and preferences, and embracing yours can bring greater fulfillment and satisfaction to your life.