06 - Embracing Vulnerability

Mar 20, 2018

One of the best parts of the human experience is the ability to truly connect with others. Our lives are set up for it: we are raised in and live in families, often work in groups, love in pairs and we truly thrive in friendships. We are driven to connect. In order for us to truly connect with another we have to let go of who we think we should be, who we think others want – or expect – us to be. We have to allow our true selves to be known. This is opening ourselves up to the discomfort of vulnerability

How do we embrace vulnerability in our own stories? First, we need to listen to and move towards what we really want and who we really are.

• Be Courageous: Speak without fear of shame, Share what is and was true for YOU
• Question Your Beliefs: What might happen if you opened yourself to a new point of view
• Acknowledge The Emotion: Don’t be too quick to move out of the uncomfortable emotion
• Be Intentional: People need to earn our vulnerability – consider your audience and build your intent from there

Vulnerability is necessary for growth.

Vulnerability breeds connection. It opens us up to love, acceptance, affection and influence of others. It increases gratitude. It also makes it safe for others to open themselves to vulnerability. Yes, being vulnerable requires extreme amounts of courage. 

Episode Quotes:

“Vulnerability is not knowing victory or defeat, it’s understanding the necessity of both; it’s engaging. It’s being all in.”  - Brené Brown

“Vulnerability sounds like the truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they are never weakness.”  - Brené Brown

“When you shut down vulnerability, you shut down opportunity.”  - Gay Gaddis

Episode References:

Brené Brown – Daring Greatly

Brené Brown – TED talks – The Power of Vulnerability