While there are many factors that determine how fulfilling your life is, one of the most powerful indicators is your level of vulnerability. Vulnerability is an authentic emotional exposure at a time of uncertainty that makes you susceptible to the negative reactions of others. Another way to think of vulnerability is that it is an opportunity to share your innermost thoughts, concerns, and beliefs that allows you to live a life that is authentic and meaningful. Vulnerability is key as you grow, learn, and change in your life because it gives you a better understanding of your true self. As a result, vulnerability increases your self-awareness which is essential to identifying purpose.
“There is always a risk with being vulnerable, but there is an even greater risk in not living a life that aligns with your values, beliefs, and purpose” states Shannon Yocum, M.A., an Arctos360 Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Vulnerability not only opens us up to new experiences, but it gives us the freedom, confidence, and resilience to continuously grow in in a way that is congruent with our purpose.
The power of vulnerability
One of the biggest roadblocks to identifying purpose is our hesitancy to be vulnerable because we are afraid of judgment. Even though we often encourage other people to be honest about themselves, sharing our own insecurities can be challenging. Despite these obstacles, finding the courage to face this fear is one of the best ways for discovering our path to purpose. For example, admitting that you feel like you are lost or stuck can open up additional avenues of support and social connection. Or, sharing that the career you chose is not in alignment with where you wish to be may break down a barrier to evaluating different options. According to Brene Brown, a writer and vulnerability researcher, “if we want greater clarity in our purpose for more meaningful lives, vulnerability is the path. In life, vulnerability removes barriers, enabling us to form vital, more authentic connections while experiencing living to its fullest.”
How to find purpose with vulnerability
The inability to lean into the discomfort of vulnerability can limit the fullness of your life experiences by diminishing your feelings of trust, love, joy, creativity, and more. In order to discover your purpose and find out what makes your heart sing, being open will support you in pursuing opportunities that challenge you and support your growth.
According to Forbes, “vulnerability is about showing up and being seen. It’s tough to do that when we’re terrified about what people might see or think.” Once you stop worrying about other people’s opinions, your vulnerability becomes a strength rather than a weakness. The only one affected by you living your most fulfilling life is you, so why let the judgements of others stand in the way?
“Vulnerability is the ability to expose who we are and what we do, and to challenge ourselves and how we live while making room for growth” states Positive Psychology. Are you or someone you know trying to live a life of purpose? If so, you’re not alone. Learn more about how Arctos360 can help you turn your vulnerability into a strength and uncover your purpose.
