Being vulnerable can be extremely scary for some people because it can make us feel exposed. Sometimes it can even make us feel weak. I am here to tell you that there is power in being vulnerable.
As I studied on this topic, I came across Brene Brown’s TED Talk, which I highly recommend you watch. She studied and researched intensely this phenomenon of the power of vulnerability and how it can change our lives. There is true proof of this, so you are going to want to keep reading.
First, let’s define vulnerability. If you google search the word vulnerability, the following definition pops up; the quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally. I don’t know about you, but when I read that, all I can see is the feeling of fear written all over it. Let’s redefine this definition.
After all of Brene Brown’s extensive research, this is what she found. Vulnerability is the true core of shame, fear, and our struggle for worthiness, but it appears it is also the birthplace of joy, creativity, belonging, and of love. Reread that. In order for any true connection to happen, we have to cultivate vulnerability in order to be seen. Connection is why we are here, and it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives. Without it, we are left feeling incredibly alone and empty, and life was never meant to be lived that way.
Did you know that the generation we live in is the most in debt, obese, addicted, and medicated cohort to ever exist? You know what that says about us as a culture? We numb all the pain, fear, and shame we feel, but how many of us know that you cannot selectively numb. If you choose to numb all the bad things we feel, you are numbing all of it. You cheat yourself of feeling true joy, the incredible feeling of being loved for who you are, and all the happiness and beauty this life has to offer. You cannot selectively numb.
Brene Brown found the people who felt worthy of love and connection had a lot in common. To their core, they chose to be vulnerable in order to gain true connection. They had the courage to tell the story of who they are with their whole heart. They had the ability to be compassionate to themselves, to then be able to show that kindness to others. They believed what made them vulnerable, made them strong. They realized being vulnerable is necessary for true connection, because true connection is the result of authenticity. The only difference is they have a willingness to be vulnerable, in order to gain the greatest reward. Will you?
xoxo, B
blissfullyb 