< PreviousBeing ‘brave’ can show up in the smallest of actions;exposing vulnerability and simply speaking out loud what’s on your mind instead of holding it inside is often a huge act of bravery. One thing that has created a huge mental shift for me is the realisation that allowing yourself to be truly vulnerable within interactions with others creates great strength and not weakness... the opposite of what I would have previously assumed. It blew my mind when I first saw this in action, as a leader took to the stage at a coaching event and began his opening speech with the words, “One thing I don’t want you to know about me is…” I had so much more respect for him as a result. It says ‘me too’. Vulnerability is an act of exposing of our own deep truths and in doing so we act as a mirror for others vulnerabilities. We risk rejection when others are not ready or able to meet us in that space. As Brene Brown writes, the root of the word courage is cor - the Latin word for heart. In one of its earliest forms, the word courage meant We each have our own story tell, and only by truly owning that story in our hearts and embracing our vulnerability, can we unleash it’s power.Courage - To speak one's mind by telling all one's heart- brene brownulnerability calls to the deep humanness in each of us; it holds out a hand of connection.VWhat happens when people open their hearts? They get better. What happens when people open their hearts? They get better. ―VULNERABILITYBy Erin Martin Being vulnerable is something that can feel uncomfortable - and doesn’t always come naturally to many of us. We all have been hurt in the past by other people’s opinions or judgements, and as a result we can build walls around ourselves. We fear rejection or judgement, which can hold us back from creating our desired life. But there is true power in allowing yourself to be vulnerable. THE VALUE OFCourage It takes true courage to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Opening yourself to another person and speaking your truth can be an intimidating thought. You don’t always know the reaction that you'll get, or whether that person will be supportive. You may uncover a unique perspective that helps you to move forward. Brainstorming with a friend is a wonderful way to move through uncomfortable feelings, and to come out with a clearer understanding. Have the courage to start that conversation. Feel safe in your own courage to show yourself. 1HonestyBeing vulnerable means being honest with yourself. Facing up to what your heart is telling you versus what your mind is telling you can be a tricky business! Be authentic to yourself, as well as with others. What do you want and how do you feel? The act of honesty can catapult you forward into a more fulfilling life and to be an inspiration to the people around you. Holding yourself back through fear will knock you out of alignment with that supportive force that surrounds you. Being honest with yourself opens the door for your dreams to come in. To live your best life and achieve your true desires, you must align with the universal energy and allow your life to flow. 13Inner strength Feel the power within you, the strength of your soul. Even in the toughest situations where you may be rejected or judged, breath in that inner strength that you absolutely have. Not being supported or heard can be painful and disheartening but remember, you have this enormous power inside of you. The power to deflect any negative energy and to rise up. You have the power to pursue the life you desire, the career you dream of, or to choose the right partner to share your life with. If you're constantly putting other people’s opinions and needs ahead of your own, it's time to stop. It only matters what feels right to you. Harsh but true! 4Vulnerability allows for deep healing and personal growth. To expose yourself, your feelings, your truths, this activates a deep healing process inside of you. For your hurts to be healed, they need to be uncovered and released. Your shadow self holds your fears so transmute the shadows by shining your light onto them. Acknowledge the old pain, express it and process it. Healing and growth5Builds relationships There are a lot of false images in our society, especially in the social media world. Everyone is striving to show their great life, beach body, healthy meals and huge social circles. People are afraid to be their true selves - to show vulnerability. Deep connections can be made through vulnerability. Choose someone you trust to open up to. You may be surprised at their response. I have an old friend who is so open, she truly inspires me. My friend is amazing, she is so honest and open, she makes me take a step back at times and I will always remember how she has made an impact in my life. A true role model. Her openness, no false pretences, no ego, just honesty. It is very inspiring to be around somebody like that when you are young. It helps you grow and it creates a real connection between you. SBeing honest and truthful is the start of the journey and then you can build your life foundations from that point.Fear and dishonesty within yourself only makes for an unstable, rickety building that will never be your dream house, and certainly won’t be strong enough to withstand the occasional storms of life. Encourage your vulnerability, dig deep, heal the wounds and a shining goddess will emerge. o be vulnerable, allow others to be vulnerable in your presence, without judgement.Don’t judge yourself and remember to speak your truth, if only to yourself to begin with. This is such an important part of my coaching practice as it is where the power for growth resides. The strongest love is the love that can demonstrate its fragility. ―Next >