The Power of Vulnerability
I had the idea for this podcast episode loooong before the episode and this post went live.
I remember thinking, “I should write this or record this right away so I can speak from the moment.” But the thought of that, of sharing how I was really feeling in that moment, scared the life out of me. So, what did I do? I avoided it. I found all these other things I needed to do first—finish the Intuitive Eating series, square away my marketing efforts, provide quality care for my clients, read multiple books. Well, here it is… finally.
Why was I so afraid of producing this blog? Because being vulnerable, as powerful as it is, is terrifying for most of us. I’m great at holding space while others are vulnerable, but every now and then, I want to poke my head in the sand and pretend the world doesn’t exist.
I wasn’t sure what I was going to say or how the post would flow. Did I want to share my deepest innermost thoughts and feelings with complete strangers? How would my friends and family who read this react? Maybe it’s better I just stick to Brene Brown’s work on vulnerability. But then, why even do this blog? You see, the thoughts kept coming, keeping me from doing something I knew had the power to change my life and potentially yours.
Embracing Vulnerability
A while back, when I was in Colorado, my aunt passed away. Her death affected me unexpectedly, stirring up emotions and reflections. Despite not being particularly close, her passing opened a channel for me and my cousin to connect over shared interests in nature and hiking. When I saw a family photo from her service online without an invitation, old insecurities and feelings of exclusion resurfaced.
Choosing Vulnerability
Instead of stewing silently at not being invited, I confronted my feelings. I reached out to my cousin and shared how I felt left out, navigating the delicate balance between vulnerability and fear of rejection. To my surprise, my cousin responded with empathy and understanding, deepening our connection and mutual understanding.
Learning from Vulnerability
Reflecting on past experiences, I realized that my fear of vulnerability often stemmed from a desire to appear perfect—to avoid judgment and rejection. Yet, by hiding behind this facade, I inadvertently pushed people away rather than drawing them closer.
Lessons from Brene Brown
Brene Brown’s insights on vulnerability resonate deeply with me. She teaches that vulnerability is not about oversharing but about genuine connection and courage. It’s about embracing our imperfections and allowing ourselves to be seen authentically.
Brown states, “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.”
This blog post, its predecessor, and the accompanying social media posts aim to inspire others to embrace vulnerability as a pathway to deeper connections, personal growth, and authentic living. It blends personal narrative with universal insights from experts like Brene Brown to encourage readers to reflect on their own relationships with vulnerability and how it can positively impact their lives.
Friend, you deserve to have your story listened to with empathy and understanding. Whether that’s from a counselor, a friend, or a loved one.
Find someone you can trust and go slow.
Vulnerability could look like sending me an email and letting me know how you’re doing. It could be calling a friend and saying “hey, I just need someone to sit with me.”
Take your time building that trust with yourself and with your trusted loved ones. And before you know it, you’ll be a courageous vulnerable queen!
