#75: Why Vulnerability is Always Worth the Risk

A magical unlock that opens us up to more joy, meaning, and connection in our lives

Artist: Community Artist’s Group

Writing anything substantial has been extra hard lately. I jot down thoughts and ideas in a pocket sized notebook that I carry with me most places, but to actually sit down in front of my computer and write a newsletter post – has been hard. A part of me misses my rambling, contrarian essays –perhaps there will be a time later when that style will be appropriate – but definitely not now. 

Now, clarity of writing is extremely important. And that requires clarity of thought –something that many people are struggling with. On a macro level, these struggles are reflective of big, important societal problems: stress, anxiety, over-work, and mental health. 

It’s easy to distract ourselves from these problems – with busyness or productivity, or numbing ourselves with substances like alcohol or drugs. But, as wise people know, these temporary bandaids always get ripped off, exposing the festering wound beneath. It’s better to face the discomfort and the unpleasantness head on because that’s the only way to begin the healing process.

It’s Better to Face Our Problems Head-On

Mustering up the courage to face our problems head-on can be incredibly difficult, but so worth it. The sense of relief and accomplishment that comes with finally tackling what we’ve been avoiding is indescribable. And, as we do so with kindness, compassion, and love, we open ourselves up to more joy, meaning, and connection in our lives.

Yesterday, I was talking to a friend who is no stranger to courage. A handful of years ago, she tragically lost both of her parents. Her experience is a testament to how little control we have in our lives.

Through her own experience, my friend reminded me of the strength we have to face life’s challenges. We may not be able to control what happens to us, but we can control how we react to it. And that, ultimately, is what will determine our fate.

The Power of Vulnerability: Why Being Open and Honest About Our Pain and Suffering is Worth the Risk

Mental health is a real and pervasive problem in our society – reflective of the anger, fear, and anxiety that we see in the news and in the media. We don’t have control over global events, lies, and fake stories – but we can choose to not feel frightened and powerless. We can choose inspiration and hope. 

We can also choose vulnerability. It takes courage to be open and honest about our pain and suffering, but it is so worth it. When we are vulnerable, we are allowing ourselves to be seen in our authentic form. We open ourselves up to the possibility of being hurt, but we also open ourselves up to the possibility of true intimacy and connection.

Vulnerability is a risk, but it is one that is so worth taking.

Take care, my friends. ❤️

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As per usual, I will be submitting this draft through the Foster workflow so a collective of writers and editors can help make this post better than what I alone am capable of.