commentr/StutterJanuary 13, 2021

Content

Haven’t gotten completely rid of my stutter as I trip over some words from time to time, but feel as if I’ve gotten over it. I’m 29 now and think I’ve been getting more and more over it through my 20s - this isn’t a reality I just woke up to. It feels good - 1) I don’t feel embarrassed when I trip over words any more - stuttering has become a minor part of how I speak and not a disability. 2) I don’t feel scared about the future anymore - when my stutter was worse, I used to fret so much about the future - whether that be short-term things like dates or presentations, or long-term things like interviews or wedding vows. Sure - I still get nervous before big presentations, but this is much different than the fear I had growing up. 3) I no longer feel different than other people and I think this is the best part of ‘getting over’ my stutter. This all took time, it was a struggle, but getting out of my comfort zone and putting myself out there has been huge for my development.

Themes

Identity & DisabilityEmotional Experience

Subthemes

Acceptance & PrideAnxiety & Social JudgmentHope & MotivationAuthenticity vs. Masking