Being vulnerable is scary…and one of the greatest things you can do. The whole concept of sharing your weaknesses and doubts can make you run the other way. However, there is immense joy in pouring out your thoughts and letting people into your mind.
Recently, I shared with a group of friends that I felt socially anxious at times, which is something I strive to overcome. Rather than looking at me in pity, they explained how they felt the same and actually admired my friendliness and openness to talk with others.
Vulnerability is defined as putting yourself at risk, according to the Oxford Dictionary. I don’t see it that way. Vulnerability is opening yourself to others and being more transparent, which may risk criticism…or acceptance and compatibility.
Vulnerability Improves Relationships
We all understand that honesty strengthens relationships, but vulnerability does as well. The difference between the two is the amount of openness offered by each. Honesty allows you to be open with another person, but you may withhold information for the sake of someone’s feelings. Vulnerability is a form of raw honesty in which there are no feelings to spare because the feelings shared are yours.
Being vulnerable opens new opportunities for growth, not only within yourself but within others too. I noticed that sharing your thoughts and feelings gives others the opportunity to do the same. This makes for a deeper and more valuable relationship.
You may learn that another’s views are highly compatible with yours, allowing your friendship to grow. Or on the flip side, you may find that someone doesn’t share the same ideals, but you can learn from that.
Vulnerability Makes You Think
Being vulnerable makes you think about yourself in ways you hadn’t before. You can gain a greater understanding of who you are and what you stand for. You also learn how to handle situations differently and with more maturity because you can place yourself in someone else’s shoes.
Vulnerability does not necessarily mean sharing your thoughts aloud. It can mean thinking about yourself in a new way and being honest about it. For example, by coming more to terms with my thoughts, I can better understand why I have a passion for politics. The reason I was holding onto did not fully reflect my thoughts and experiences, so I began thinking about it in a new, more positive way.
Vulnerability is Challenging
Vulnerability challenges you but also can be difficult to put into practice. It’s definitely not easy to deeply reflect on your thoughts, either sharing them with yourself or with someone else. You may fear judgment or even acknowledging the thought itself.
Either way, challenging yourself to be open and honest is important. You will learn and grow from it. If you’re struggling to say your opinion, consider confiding in your close friends or family members. Being vulnerable is valuable and don’t let other people’s opinions tell you otherwise.