Day 2 - Questions & Lessons: Is There Strength in Vulnerability?

You are human, and you have feelings that don't always feel good, and that's okay.

Hey Family,

Thanks for stopping by. This entry is tough for me as I still need to fully explore this topic, but it's a question that I ask myself often: Is there strength in vulnerability?

My immediate reaction is no! Even as I write this.

But after I take a breath and clench my teeth to deal with the immediate discomfort, I can get myself to say?yes, or at least?maybe. Let me explain.?

I've found that our society often equates strength with stoicism and emotional protection; admitting our fears, insecurities, or mistakes can feel like an act of defiance. The societal mantra seems to whisper consistently in our ears, "Never let them see you weak." But what if the essence of true strength lies not in the walls we build around our hearts but in the courage to tear them down??

I will try to gain some clarity by thinking out loud with you. I hope that's okay.

So here we go.

Today, we'll explore the often misunderstood concept of vulnerability, challenging the traditional notion that it signifies weakness and uncovering how it can be a source of strength, genuine connection, and personal growth.

A couple of years ago, I found myself standing at the crossroads of a life-altering decision: to leave a stable, well-paying job to pursue a passion that promised no guarantees. The fear of failure was real as hell. Sharing these fears with anyone felt like admitting defeat before even starting. However, in a moment of unusual openness, I confided in a friend, expecting judgment but hoping for understanding. To my surprise, this admission did not bring the judgment I feared but instead created a deeper connection and respect between us.?

He not only offered support but also shared his own story of similar fears and uncertainties.?

After I got over the shock of even being able to have this conversation with a big homie, I was able to feel the strength in my…vulnerability (that was even hard to type). This experience taught me a valuable lesson: vulnerability, far from being a weakness, is a bridge to deeper human connections and a testament to the strength it takes to be authentically oneself.

So, how can we find the strength that lies in vulnerability??

Here are three possible ways:

1.?Get it Out:

One of the most private ways to explore your vulnerabilities is through journaling.?

Journaling provides a private method to unpack your vulnerabilities, offering a judgment-free zone for your innermost thoughts and fears. By writing down your perceived weaknesses and moments of exposure, you can reflect on their influence on your life, including unforeseen positive and negative outcomes.?

This exercise has been invaluable to me, and by sharing my process, I hope to guide you in acknowledging your entire self.?

2. Give Yourself Grace:

Don't beat yourself up. You are human, and you have feelings that don't always feel good, and that's okay. Judging yourself in a negative way isn't helpful.?

Start by being aware of times you judge yourself or feel uncomfortable, as these often signal your vulnerabilities. Though my instinct is sometimes to avoid these feelings, I've learned the value of facing them with patience and without judgment.?

Treat yourself with compassion during these moments, just as you would a friend.

3. Build & Lean into Your Tribe:

I've found that vulnerability often feels less intimidating when shared with trusted friends, a partner, or within a supportive community.?

Identify a group, whether it's a formal setting like a support group or an informal gathering of friends, where open and honest conversations can be had. Share your experiences and listen to others as they share theirs. In these shared stories, you'll likely find common ground and the realization that vulnerabilities are universal.

Sharing my fear with my friend was a game changer for me, not just because I could get it out but also because I realized that I wasn't alone in those feelings.?

I invite you to reflect on your relationship with vulnerability. Consider moments when opening up could have led to deeper connections or even just feeling better. The journey towards embracing vulnerability is not without its challenges, but the rewards—authentic connections and personal growth are well worth the effort.?

I am thinking out loud with you also to remind myself. Let us redefine strength not as the absence of vulnerability but as the courage to embrace it.?

Thanks for your time today. I hope that was helpful.

Much Love,

Dr. Jae