The point of vulnerability

Posted on 30. Apr, 2010 by Susan Wright in Life Coaching

Just when I thought it was okay, it wasn’t, just as I started to share, it got scary,  just as I let my guard down, it felt uncomfortable…how many of us feel a little less okay when we start to open our hearts and share what really matters? For those of us who like control – whether we realize it or not – that point of vulnerability, when we really just “go there” can be uncomfortable, emotional, and yes a little scary.  What does the ego do? Well it slams the door shut!

A light turned on this week after walking away from a conversation sharing a recent parental experience. At one moment I was open and heartfelt, the next closing the door. What came to light was the power of ego and the inner voice that gets in the way of authenticity.  We may let go a little in confidence, share a bit about our experience, and then look out, the emotions surface like a bubble of soap, just glistening enough to  sparkle and take shape, then pop goes the ego – the part of us that judges us for even being open enough to be real with our lives and experiences.

This is why asking for help is just so darn hard, or simply having relationships that compel us to open up and be who we are.  We just don’t want to lose control, it’s easier to suck it up and diminish the effect all this “stuff” is really having on us. But what’s the cost? HUGE. We lose out on opportunities for real growth, health, happiness, and authentic living.

There’s a great song by the Bodeans called “Naked,” it pretty much sums up, how we feel when were are true, loving, and accepting of what is.  So even if we can shed one layer, then we are starting to unravel and release…there is great freedom in that and that can be a very foreign feeling for those who like to know, have the road map, and predict the outcome.

With great freedom, comes great vulnerability, and that takes a whole lot of faith, self love, and a little kick in the pants! So as I move along my journey, there will be those times when my head says: “You’re foolish, how could you go there, you know better…blah, blah, blah.” I suppose it’s the heavy thoughts and if you can imagine a boss saying those things – well guess what – that’s you and your ego. What would you say to the boss? Would you be polite, walk away with your tail between your legs?

Stand up folks, it’s time. Time to take care of ourselves, time to honour who we are, and all that we can be. We can be healthy, whole, and creative. Imagine the power in that.

Get naked!

Susan

Tags: authentic conversations, courage