Vulnerability

by Amalia

Brené Brown wrote:

Sometimes the toughest part of embracing vulnerability is recognizing vulnerability. There are so many secondary emotions that spring to the surface and grab our focus. I wrote this in my journal this morning as a little reminder to look deeper, be mindful, and practice self-compassion. I don’t want to shut myself off from vulnerability because I don’t want to miss out on what it brings to my life: love, creativity, joy, authenticity, courage, and hope (just to name a few).

So, here is my own version of recognizing vulnerability….

Vulnerability is…

  • Unable to forgive, let go, and move on
  • Failing to finish the work on time
  • Unable to satisfy my boss/professor/friend with my work
  • Failing a course for the second time
  • Exposing your weakness
  • Admitting that you’re weak
  • Asking for help
  • Feeling that you’re not good enough for you family/friends
  • Being different than everyone else
  • Telling the truth
  • Admitting that you’re wrong
  • Asking for forgiveness
  • Telling (some) people that they’re wrong
  • Loving someone so deeply & unconditionally, without worrying about being hurt
  • Risking to be judged
  • Sharing your problems with others

Vulnerability feels like…

  • Disappearing
  • Failure
  • Embarrassment
  • Sad
  • Anger
  • Depressed
  • Helplessness
  • Withdrawal
  • Worried
  • Weak

The list is expanding… One thing I notice about this list is that most of them have to do with exposing myself, being transparent, and allowing myself to be really seen. Obviously I have a lot of "work" to do 😀