So, I’m Vulnerable …
Michelle Matthias
One of the most prominent writers on the subject of vulnerability is Brené Brown. In her book, Daring Greatly, Brené Brown describes vulnerability as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure.” She explains that it’s that unstable feeling we get when we step out of our comfort zone or do something that forces us to loosen control. Dr. Brown’s book debunks some myths about vulnerability, the most popular being that vulnerability is a sign of weakness.
It is on that note that I write today because, yes, I’ve embarked on a journey that makes me feel vulnerable but certainly not weak. In fact, my vulnerability has made me determined and resilient, giving me renewed courage and hope that embracing God’s will is the only way forward. If you allow me to define the vulnerability that I am feeling, it would be “pulling back my curtains and embracing my truths, my fears, yes, my fears and daring to tap into my creativity while holding on to authenticity.”
Each week, as I prepare to write this blog, my natural instinct is to avoid being vulnerable but truthfully it’s the embracing of my vulnerability that has led me to this point. So what’s my takeaway this week?
Vulnerability is/can be a sign of strength, not weakness. You may feel insecure and may try to avoid situations that make you feel exposed. Our hands may become sweaty and there may be anxiety. We may feel a great need to be self-protective but heck, who is perfect? I’m not perfect. No one is perfect. It’s about showing up and being the best version of myself. It’s about letting go of the perfectionist traits and the impossible ideals. It’s being okay with who I am and what I have to offer without overthinking how I’ll be critiqued.
Brené Brown in Rising Strong says it perfectly “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. Vulnerability is not weakness; it’s our greatest measure of courage,”
So the takeaway is:
- Redefine vulnerability- see it as strength and courage
- Be aware that it may be uncomfortable but you can rise above it
- Become honest with yourself, recognize what you feel, accept what you think, but remind yourself that exposure is necessary for growth
- Accept vulnerability. Your ability to be okay with vulnerability will bring exponential results and personal joy – ‘I did it!’
- Enjoy and embrace the freedom of being you on the path that you are called to walk.
So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:6
Empowerment Coach
Michelle Matthias
If you allow me to define the vulnerability that I am feeling, it would be “pulling back my curtains and embracing my truths, my fears, yes, my fears and daring to tap into my creativity while holding on to authenticity.” – Michelle Matthias
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andy says:
Being vulnerable is not easy and doesn’t come naturally to adults…it comes naturally to children. We have been taught to be diplomatic and edit or filter our expressions. We now have to unlearn and let go of those constraints and become vulnerable again. This causes angst….at least for me it does. However, in order to grow we have to be open and hence be vulnerable. Growth can make us uncomfortable but to be better versions of ourselves, it’s necessary.
Michelle says:
Yes it’s not easy. Many adults see vulnerability as weakness and failure hence hindering the opportunity for growth. Acknowledging vulnerability is essential to have a renewed mindset and foster personal growth – whether in relationships or or areas of our life.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Mia Matthias says:
Thank you for this; it teaches us to find strength in something usually perceived as ‘weakness’.
Mia says:
Thank you for this; it teaches us to find strength in something usually perceived as ‘weakness’.
Michelle says:
That’s right. It’s a necessary perceptual shift that allows us to see and utilize the positive in something that is perceived to be negative. Thank you!
Sheryl says:
Great reminder that we are all imperfect, but God. It’s also a great assurance that God gives us strength and we are never alone even in our most vulnerable situations. In our weakness, God is still strong.
Michelle says:
So true that we are all imperfect. Thank God for being the source of our strength. It’s in Him that the weak can say that they are strong. Thank you for sharing.