Why is being vulnerable important?

Before we discuss about the significance of vulnerability, we need to first understand what it means. If we look at its literal meaning being vulnerable means being exposed to the possibilities of being harmed. For me, vulnerability means being open to the things around you and embracing whatever comes to your way. It means understanding the risk associated with trusting people and still having the courage to open up to them.

Vulnerability means having the courage to show your true self, being who you are and not being afraid of the external criticisms. We understand how scary it might be to let people know about your dark side; to trust people with your secrets and to let them know that you’re not perfect. It is not easy to show them your flaws and to expect them to accept you for who you are. This might sound like a lot of work with high risk associated with it, but it does not have to be. Being vulnerable is actually easy once you learn to do it and is actually beneficial for you.

Personally, this seemed like a lot of work for me too. But once I started witnessing some great people losing their life just because they could not show their vulnerable side, I realized how important it actually was. Hence, I am writing this article to start talking about things that we often do not talk about, to let you know that it is actually okay.

So coming back to its importance,

Vulnerability can bring people closer. Once you start trusting people with your secrets and your flaws, you actually bring the right people closer to you. And the ones who get scared of your darker side, will go away, hence filtering your circle. You learn to trust people and also learn about your true friends.

You learn to let go of things that has been bothering you and you learn to cope better. Opening up will help you find support and someone to lean on. It also promotes wellbeing, allowing you to experience anything in your life wholeheartedly.

One thing that you must remember is that vulnerability is strength, not weakness. It takes guts and courage to show your true self. And once you do, you feel liberated. You come to understand that you are not alone and there are tons of people who go through the same and as human beings, we all share the same pain. You will feel less lonely and you start finding bliss in your life.

Doing it the right way

So, how do we start becoming vulnerable? There are no set of rules or steps that you can take to start doing it. But these are the things for you to keep in mind before you start opening up.

1. Find someone that you can trust and do not share your inner woes with everyone you meet.

2. Try to know if they are a good listener.

3. Do not overwhelm them with your secrets all at once. Do it moderately.

4. Know what things you want to share and what you want to keep it to yourself.

5. Do not sound desperate.

6. Learn to move on if you realize that you have shared it to the wrong person. You will always find someone better.

Not being able to show your vulnerable side is one of the biggest weakness that this generation today have. We all try to show ourselves so perfect, that we are actually losing our true sense of being. Just a simple request, never make that mistake.

Written by

Talent Manager| Organizational Psychology enthusiast| Organizational Development| Startups Focused

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