The Wings of Vulnerability

Years ago, during my coaching diploma program, an exercise in vulnerability reshaped my understanding of strength and authenticity. The psychologist running the program handed us white paper masks and instructed us to reveal what we often conceal in social situations. At that point in time, I was on the brink of making significant exponential changes in my life, which may have been perceived by people viewing my life from the outside that these decisions were bizarre. However, I chose to follow my heart and become aligned with my authentic self.

The exercise required us, the life coaching participants, to present to an audience of sports and executive coaching participants–groups with whom I had never interacted before. We were to wear the mask and share our truths for 10 to 40 minutes. After a few had presented, I expressed that I wanted to go next. Though I was unprepared, a voice within me whispered “You are ready enough, go for it”.

The Leap of Courage

I stood up with the white paper mask on, silent for a minute, engaging in an internal dialogue. Sometimes in social situations, we choose to keep things private and not to disclose personal emotions. In my mind I thought, “Do I want to keep it brief, knowing that by brief I meant superficial, or do I want to seize this opportunity to truly and freely express myself?” After a moment’s silence, I chose authenticity. I spoke from my heart for 50 minutes. I was raw and vulnerable, yet deeply connected with myself. In the moments of my presentation, the pressure of being exposed faded away. I felt like a dancer on stage, wholly present in the moment and with my body. At that moment, I felt like an eagle, soaring freely and liberated.

The Magic of Vulnerability

In that vulnerable state, I realised a profound truth: we become immensely stronger when we speak the language of our hearts. Magic happens when we expose ourselves to unknown situations, open to the possibility of being hurt, laughed at or ridiculed. This act requires immense courage and emotional and mental strength, as it involves trusting our ability to handle and collect ourselves.

How We Become Unshakeable Through Openness

One of the most liberating aspects of practising vulnerability is the realization that no one can defeat us with their words or attitudes. When we embrace our true selves and our imperfections, we build an unshakable core. External judgements lose their power over us; we no longer seek validation from others. Instead, we derive our worth from within and the courageous attitude and act in life of being ourselves and any criticism or ridicule become background noise.

Practising vulnerability requires adapting and staying grounded in stressful situations and maintaining solid self-awareness and a sense of self-worth. The more we practise vulnerability the more confident we become in our ability to handle and soothe ourselves and integrate all parts of ourselves into a coherent whole.

Practical Ideas for Living Vulnerably

1-Owning our story.

embrace and own our story as part of our journey and identity.

2-Developing solid self-awareness.

Regularly reflect on our emotions, thoughts and behaviours to better understand ourselves.

3-Connecting with our core.

Foster a deep connection with our heart and true self.

4. Making peace with our imperfections

Accept and love ourselves, and our flaws.

5-Disregard others’ opinions.

Focus on what feels right to us rather than external approvals.

6-Love life.

Cultivate a desire to ‘get more out of life’, and embrace new experiences and challenges.

Vulnerability as Strength

Ultimately, vulnerability is about embracing the possibility of emotional pain while trusting our capacity to recover and grow. It deepens our sense of self-regulation and strengthens our sense of self. By being vulnerable, we invite others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of authenticity and connection.

Why Vulnerability Enriches Our Lives

Vulnerable people live life to the fullest. They are great lovers. They express love first and often, introduce new ideas, have difficult conversations, humbly receive feedback, can peacefully say ‘I don’t know’ and ask for help. Vulnerable people are originals, they let their souls express themselves genuinely.

This fearless self-expression expands our life experiences, allowing us to live more fully. Vulnerability fosters a deep connection with ourselves and others, making it a vital part of living a wholehearted life.

The Wings of Vulnerability

Think about your life and how it would transform if you embraced your authentic self, more fully and often. The wings of vulnerability are available to all of us, ready to lift us to new heights of personal and relational growth. There is magic in daring to reveal and share the hidden parts of our soul. The freedom and connection we will find are worth every moment of exposure.