The Power of Letting Yourself Be Vulnerable

Being vulnerable is difficult. It is not weakness. It’s allowing yourself to be open, to be yourself, to accept help. It’s showing the world who you are with the understanding that not everyone will like or accept that person, but you show up anyway. Vulnerability is showing your soft side and admitting that you don’t have it all together. Society rewards stoicism, being strong and getting by on your own. It can be tough to let your guard down, but there are lots of advantages to it. Let’s look at the power of letting yourself be vulnerable.
 
Sense of Belonging
When you’re unabashedly yourself, you’ll find that you attract your tribe. The people in your life will want to be there because they see the real you. You won't be attracting people only interested in the parts you’re willing to show them. Being truly vulnerable means showing the world your authentic self, flaws and all. As you begin to open up more, you’ll notice that the people around you feel natural. It’s easy to be vulnerable around them because they accept you for who you are. This can lead to a real sense of belonging. You can build community around like-minded folks.
 
Earned Trust
People can spot a faker. If you’re being inauthentic, aka fake, people will know. This is especially true in situations where you are a leader or boss. Being vulnerable shows others that you are not perfect and it encourages them to be open too. Your vulnerability lets them know they don’t have to be perfect around you and that you will understand. They’re more willing to come to you with problems. All of this is because they trust you. It’s easier to trust someone who shows their flaws and who admits that they don’t have all the answers.
 
Improved Relationships
Your relationships will improve when you’re able to be vulnerable with the people who are important to you. That’s because people appreciate vulnerability. When you can share your emotions with people you care about and let them see your flaws, they are able to do the same. You get to know each other better and will feel closer. Demonstrating vulnerability invites you and others to do so more often, allowing for even deeper relationships to form.
 
There is a lot to be gained from vulnerability. Are you surprised? There truly is power in letting yourself be vulnerable. You’ll improve your relationships and, in the end, begin to accept yourself and all your flaws.