I’ve got a big question for you today—a question that will help you create a more refined and authentic online presence. And that, of course, is precisely how you attract the right people and build a business that’s 100% aligned with your values.

But I should warn you: it isn’t an easy question to face. It might stir some things up for you.

It’s worth it.

Here we go:

Are you hiding behind your business?

Here’s what I mean. There’s you, the human being. A person with wonderful ideas, a deep well of compassion and a special spark.

And then there’s your business. It’s built around you, the human being…but perhaps you haven’t created enough windows. As a result, you feel stiff, awkward or muffled, and your prospects are left staring at a brick wall.

Not good.

In practice, this hiding can take a variety of forms. A website with no photos of you on it. Website copy that’s too formal or academic. Marketing tactics that you adopt despite being fundamentally uncomfortable with them. A business name that doesn’t reflect who you really are.

Sometimes, we hide. And I think we do it because…

…we’re over-thinking how we’re “supposed” to grow our businesses online—or letting the countless (and sometimes so-called) experts get into our HEADS.

…or we’re afraid of what will happen if we show our faces, share our voices, and be ourselves.

I’ve spoken to countless small business owners who have done this at some point in their career, in one way or another. Over time, they realized their businesses wouldn’t feel right until they let their real selves shine through.

And even though I’ve always prided myself on being an authentic small business owner and communicator, I’ve recently realized I can do better.

That’s why I’ve decided to make some changes to how I present myself online, and how I communicate with nice people like you.

It’s time to let the real me shine a little brighter.

So who am I, really? A writer. A creative. A writing coach. A daydreamer. Someone who believes in the primal importance of self-expression. Someone who refuses to live an ordinary life. Someone who really loves working with smart, kind small business owners who want to become better writers—but also adores literary fiction. Someone in the early stages of putting together a short story collection.

In the past, I’ve tried to compartmentalize my interests, so my small business community wasn’t exposed to my passion for reading and writing fiction, and so my existing writing friends didn’t have to be a part of my small business adventure.

It doesn’t work, and here’s why.

There’s only one me. We can’t split ourselves in two, or three, and we don’t have to. People are sophisticated readers, listeners, and friends. People understand that we are all multi-faceted humans, and more than that, they usually relish the chance to get to know our real, three-dimensional selves—instead of something forced, phony or flat. A paper cutout of a person.

I’m not saying it’s easy. But there’s no way it isn’t worth it.

[Tweet “Ever feel like you’re hiding behind your business? There’s a better way.”]

To make it official, my announcement:

1. I’ve shed my business name, Story Factory, and moved my business over to www.nicolebaute.com. I’d love any feedback you might have on the new look and tone. (I’m still working out a few tiny glitches, by the way.)

2. I’m going to start emailing my subscribers less often (approximately every other week), but with more to share each time. I’m adjusting my editorial strategy to give me the chance to share my voice while still offering you helpful, actionable support. Stay tuned!

3. Although my core service remains more or less the same, I’ve created some flexible writing coaching options for anyone looking to improve their writing skills through blogging, guest articles, books and more. This coaching is 100% customized for your needs and goals. If that interests you, please go ahead and set up a time to chat about you + writing!

Now, back to the big question.

Do you ever find yourself hiding behind your business in some way?

I’d love to hear about it in the comments!