Are you courageous enough to be vulnerable?
Last week we explored ways that you can be vulnerable – and, therefore, fully human and connected. The coaching tips were focused on work related examples (although if you look back at the article, they could definitely be applied at home too). This week, I’d like to explore some ideas on how we can take our courage into our personal lives and experience true authentic connectedness. Let’s take Key Steps this week and…
Have the courage to be vulnerable – at home
1. Be prepared to show what you are not. This quote sums it up beautifully, “Vulnerability is the essence of romance. It’s the art of being uncalculated, the willingness to look foolish, the courage to say, ‘This is me, and I’m interested in you enough to show you my flaws with the hope that you may embrace me for all that I am but, more important, all that I am not.'” Stop trying to be super human and be everything to all people. Be who you are, say what you feel, be authentic about what you want and need. Trust those you love enough to be open and authentic with them. You might be surprised that they actually love you more!
2. Realise that vulnerability inspires vulnerability and, therefore, courage. We all need somebody to talk to. I am amazed, again and again – and not in a good way – by how many families don’t really talk to each other, don’t share their feelings and don’t open up when they are struggling, hurting or afraid. It is sad, that in our attempt to be ‘strong’ we actually reveal our greatest weakness and rob those we care about of an opportunity to experience us as we really are and support us if they can. It would be good if we talked more… not just chit-chat, but real talk. We shouldn’t be so afraid to have heartfelt conversation, because not only is it cathartic but most people really like this contact. And when you show you are vulnerable, it gives them the ‘green-light’ and courage to be vulnerable too. So dare to have an authentic conversation this week and take Key Steps to…
