Vulnerability Unleashed, Your Best Self Awaits
Written by Mirka Vasquez, 18-years-old
Vulnerability, a word that echoes with fragility and uncertainty, is often considered a weakness in a world that values strength and perfection. Society teaches us to maintain a flawless facade by always appearing happy and positive, looking our best at all times, and avoiding expressing our true thoughts and opinions. The societal pressure to maintain a perfect image and avoid vulnerability often limits our ability to live fulfilling lives, but embracing our vulnerabilities can actually be the key to unlocking our true potential and becoming the best version of ourselves.
Embracing our vulnerabilities is both an act of self-love and acceptance that requires courage and authenticity. It is a powerful tool for fostering a more empathetic community. By loving ourselves for who we are, flaws and all, we allow ourselves to be human and make mistakes while maintaining our self-worth and dignity. This act of vulnerability also opens the door for others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of vulnerability that inspires and promotes compassion, ultimately leading to greater self-awareness, confidence, and self-esteem.
It's important to remember that nobody has everything figured out and that societal pressure to present a perfect image can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. However, by embracing our vulnerabilities, we can learn, grow, and connect with others on a deeper level. Our vulnerabilities are not weaknesses, but strengths that can help us become the best versions of ourselves. By opening ourselves up to new experiences and ideas, we can tap into our creativity and innovation, develop resilience and determination, let go of our fears of failure and judgment, and inspire positive change and greater empathy towards others.
So how can we cultivate vulnerability in our lives?
Practice self-reflection: Spend some time reflecting on your thoughts and feelings. Get in touch with what's going on inside of you and allow yourself to feel vulnerable in the process.
Recognize and embrace your imperfections: No one is perfect, and that's okay. Accepting your imperfections and being comfortable with them can help you feel more open to vulnerability.
Share your emotions: Share your emotions with others in a safe and supportive environment. This can help you connect with others on a deeper level and feel more comfortable being vulnerable.
Practice active listening: When you listen to others, try to be present in the moment and give them your full attention. This can help create a safe space for vulnerability and encourage others to be open with you.
Take small risks: Start with small acts of vulnerability, such as sharing your feelings with a close friend or family member. As you become more comfortable with vulnerability, you can gradually take bigger risks and share more of yourself with others.
Vulnerability is a skill that takes time and practice to develop so don't rush the process, take it slow and steady. With patience and persistence, we'll unleash our full potential and become the ultimate version of ourselves.
About Mirka Vasquez:
Mirka is a senior at Lyndhurst High School. She will be attending Rutgers New Brunswick this fall to explore the interdisciplinary fields of human rights, religion, women’s studies, and French.