The work you’re embarrassed to show is usually the work that needs feedback most.

Embarrassment gathers around the parts you are least sure of, which are precisely the parts another pair of eyes would help with. Hiding them keeps you comfortable and keeps them unfixed, so the work that most needs attention gets the least. The instinct is protective and it works against you. Shame turns out to be a surprisingly good map of where to ask for help.

Show one person the thing you were going to keep hidden. Choose somebody kind rather than somebody impressive. Say what you are unsure about and ask them one specific question, rather than whether they like it.