Valentine's Day was this week and I have been thinking a lot about vulnerability after stumbling upon Brene Brown's work. To be vulnerable we must expose ourselves for who we truly are, by lifting our delicate hearts outside of our bodies even at the risk of rejection.
We must own our weaknesses, fears, and insecurities without fear of judgement from others. By doing so, we are able to find TRUE connection with others and develop a calm confidence from within. Easier said than done.
In an interview with Forbes magazine, Brene says "The difficult thing is vulnerability is the first thing I look for in you and the last thing I'm willing to show you. In you, it's courage and daring. In me, it's weakness."
Isn't that the truth? Don't we admire people who are willing to show up and be seen for who they really are without shame? Yet, aren't we afraid to do the same? It's often the fear of judgement and pain that keep us from putting ourselves out there, ultimately holding us back from true love and connection.
So, we continue to put our heavy armor on and pretend to be perfect, hiding behind a beautiful Instagram page or Facebook profile. We don't admit to our biggest mistakes, insecurities and fears and frankly, it's all too exhausting.
Brene said, "Learning how to be vulnerable has been a street fight for me, but it's been worth it." I know this street fight well and it's a fight I will keep fighting.