I was self employed when I finally realized that I was atheist. I'm now retired so it's pretty easy for me to just say "I'm atheist." I can't judge those that fear for their jobs though but maybe just saying it will become more acceptable as time goes by.

Even though I do consider myself Atheist I say 99%. I hold out that 1% for proof lol. Not because I am afraid to commit but I don't want to be one that still denies if there is concrete proof. But I too find myself answering like you did and I find it sad. It's like we have to hide from the persecution of religious people for not believing in their imaginary friend in the sky. As I get older it's easier for me to say I don't do religion and let them read between the lines. And ya, I also think most people have actually met an Atheist.