The Value of Vulnerability

When was the last time you were vulnerable, really vulnerable? What did you feel? What was the situation? How did you react? What did you learn?

There is incredible and life-changing power when we are willing to be vulnerable. Let me provide a couple of quick definitions to ensure there is a clear understanding of what we are talking about:

Dictionary Definitions:

• capable of being physically or emotionally wounded
• open to attack or damage easily hurt or harmed physically, mentally, or emotionally

Expanded Definitions:

• the courage to be yourself no matter what
• willing to take risks
• the ability to express ones feelings openly
• increased humility to receive feedback and criticism

Now, it is important to clarify something, many focus on being vulnerable as a sign of weakness, shame and fear. The issue is they often stop with that singular vision and thus do not allow themselves to be vulnerable. Although those are a part of what vulnerability is, the truth is it is also where we find real peace, joy, belonging and creativity.

As we learn to increase our willingness to be vulnerable we will increase our ability to reach our goals, dreams and become who we want to really become. The greatest teachers and learners are those that value the need for vulnerability. They understand that the more open and real they are with themselves, the more opportunities they have to grow and achieve success.

One of the most rewarding aspects of having at the top of your values list vulnerability is that you will pave the path to living with greater happiness. This happiness will come as you express gratitude for opening yourself up by learning to live with increased vulnerability. It will take courage, faith and a willingness to confront truth head-on. It will not be easy but the more you practice living with vulnerability, the more it becomes a part of who you are and ultimately one of your core values.

I have personally seen the power of living with increased vulnerability. It has stripped me of pride and given me new hope and faith in the future. It has allowed me to become a learner in ways I never thought possible. It has strengthened my self-confidence and helped me to be a leader. It has helped me be a better father, husband, son, brother and friend. I still have work to do in this area but it feels refreshing to know the more I increase my vulnerability, the more I can become who I want to become.

What can you do to increase the value of vulnerability in your life today?