Brené Brown explains that until she dealt with shame and fear, she wore different suits of armor that kept her from becoming too vulnerable. She kept people at a safe distance and always had an exit strategy – especially in our culture of cynics and critics.
But when you armor yourself – you cut yourself off from others and from the situation. You hide or block your energy. It’s hard to make a difference that way.
Love, Courage, and Authenticity
To feel is to be vulnerable. But that’s not the same as weakness. Feeling is the core of love, courage, and authenticity. You need to feel strong and secure inside to be okay with uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure. It takes courage to put your creations or thoughts into the world without knowing whether they will be accepted or rejected.
Vulnerability is different for everyone. What is it for you? Simply fill in the blank and keep writing as long as possible – try to fill a whole page if you can. This can give you an idea of what you would like to work on before you can truly “be the change” you wish to see.
Vulnerability is…
We can train our shame resilience. It can help to recognize shame and understand its triggers. Check the expectations and messages that drive your shame – are they realistic? Or is your inner critic too perfectionist? You might discover a belief that needs to be challenged because all humans learn and make mistakes.
This is book post #42 – ME
Here‘s the earlier post
Here‘s the next post
If you’re confused – please start with post #1 or check the Positive Power overview and read the Positive Agent Manifesto.
Leaders, employees, consultants, citizens – everyone can make a positive difference from any position, without needing permission or resources from others. This blog will help you see positive possibilities and (re)claim your positive agency. Unstuck yourself and engage others via your interaction and actions. Transform into a positive organization where people and performance thrive.
I’m blogging my next book: “Positive Power at Work – How to make a positive difference from any position.” Your feedback is appreciated!