“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” – Brene Brown
Vulnerability can be defined as allowing yourself to be truly seen by another. It is allowing yourself the opportunity to experience intense and positive emotions while also exposing yourself to the possibility of rejection. Because of this, people often associate vulnerability with weakness, betrayal, fear, or hurt. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable can bring up deep-seated emotions. However, let’s be honest. Vulnerability should never be viewed as weakness and may actually be one of your biggest strengths.
Vulnerability comes in many different forms. You may choose to be vulnerable in a new relationship, put yourself out there socially, or take that big risk at work by asking for a promotion. Regardless of the situation, it takes courage, honesty, and a whole lot of strength to be vulnerable. It allows us to push ourselves beyond limits that we never imagined possible and accomplish goals we once perceived as unachievable. Vulnerability opens the doors for new love and friendships, allowing us to feel fully heard and understood. Without vulnerability there is no new, no change, and no progress in our lives.
Brene also states that “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.”
They key to living an authentic, happy, and successful life is to allow yourself to let go and live vulnerably. I know it can be a scary, bumpy ride. Therefore, I want to leave you with four tips for approaching vulnerability.
Take baby steps.
It is important to take things one step at a time when you allow yourself to be vulnerable again. For example, say eating out alone makes you feel insecure and vulnerable. Maybe start by eating at a restaurant that is designed for solo diners. Bring a book or your tablet to keep you occupied if you begin to feel uncomfortable. Slowly dip your toes in the water until you feel comfortable diving all in.
Boundaries.
While vulnerability can open the doors for vast opportunity and spiritual awakening, it is important to set firm boundaries. Make sure to always maintain a level of self-awareness that allows you to avoid or remove yourself from unsafe situations or environments and set those boundaries when you feel uncomfortable.
Practice, practice, practice.
As with anything, vulnerability takes practice. The more you put yourself out there the more confident you will become in unknown and uncomfortable situations.
Self-care.
Throughout the process of embracing vulnerability, it is important that you nurture your love for yourself. Unfortunately, rejection and failure often come hand-in-hand with vulnerability. Therefore, work on strengthening your confidence and self-esteem through self-care and self-love. It will be easier for you to get back up and put yourself out there again if you feel confident with yourself and have a strong level of self-esteem,.
If you want to learn how to fully embrace vulnerability and live a more fulfilling life, contact our office at 832.421.8714 or admin@amywinecounseling.com to schedule an appointment.