Value of Vulnerability
During pre-quarantine, some of us had to force ourselves to carve out time on our calendars for family and friends. Now, here we are, and we are about to pull out our hair because of the overflow of family time, literally 24/7. Does anyone else find that ironic?
I know being surrounding by family doesn’t apply to everyone- so I do want to be sensitive to those that are in complete isolation. But in either position, do you find yourself wishing for what you had before, or didn’t have- maybe more human interaction, or more quiet time. Maybe it’s that human nature mentality where you want what you don’t have and forget to appreciate what you have when you have it. Now, let’s take that a step further. When a family member tests your patience and causes you to react “totally out of character,” that really exposes your anger. Or the loneliness is becoming so overwhelming that you feel your self-esteem dwindling. These tough moments expose us. So whichever side of the table you are one- let’s take this time to process what these moments feel like.
What’s working and what’s not? Do you need to establish some boundaries with your families or maybe set aside time to check in and catch up with the ones that are far away? Building relationships requires vulnerability and so does processing your feelings. Vulnerability can be a really daunting concept- whether it’s being vulnerable with a therapist, friend, spouse, or even yourself. Speaking the words into existence that are in the depths of our hearts can often make things feel “too real.” But in reality- the only pathway to growth is by reaching in and pulling that “stuff” out, putting it on the table, and deciding what to do with it. And you never know where that vulnerability might lead you. It might spark someone to share something that brings you closer, or it might not. But, my favorite reminder in relationships and interactions is that we can only control OUR words and actions. So, let’s work on what we can control- ourselves. It’s ok if you have more tough moments than not, give yourself some grace. But don’t let those moments go without giving yourself the opportunity for growth. Bob Goff wrote in his book, Everybody Always, “We’re all rough drafts of the people we’re still becoming.” In other words, there’s always more growth. I hope for you that this growth never feels too overwhelming, let’s all take this one step at a time. Key words from that quote are, “WE’RE ALL.” No one is perfect, everyone is growing. As always, I’m here as an extra resource if you need it, 704-286-3566.
