On Vulnerability
“Vulnerability is not weakness; it is the greatest measure of courage”
- Brené Brown
Vulnerability is a natural part of being human. Yet many people avoid it due to fears of being perceived as weak, or the lingering effects of past trauma. While it is normal to resist difficult feelings, denying them limits our ability to grow, to get past them. Everyone has justified reasons for putting their guard up – but being vulnerable is critical to unlocking the exploration and expansion that is possible through coaching.
Coaching offers a confidential, judgment-free space to explore your fears and your doubts. In fact, it is a coach’s responsibility to foster an environment in which clients feel comfortable bringing their whole selves – warts and all – to each session. Every session represents an opportunity to explore your vulnerability and discover deeper truths about yourself. To embrace possibility.
Vulnerability in coaching is a two-way street. When appropriate, I am not scared or ashamed to relate my own challenges, fears, uncertainties with clients. I recognize that we are all works-in-progress, and that I myself am far from perfect. Clients often benefit from knowing they are not alone in what they are feeling. With this knowledge, clients can be empowered to lean into their own vulnerability.
When clients take the leap and express vulnerability, they open the door for profound breakthroughs. In the absence of vulnerability, it is easy to believe that one’s challenges are only surface-level issues. Being vulnerable helps clients uncover deeper truths, making even the surface-level obstacles easier to manage. The real treasures lie not in the clear shallows, but the murky depths.
In truth, to be vulnerable is to invite risk and uncertainty. But life’s rewards emerge out of the uncomfortable and the unknown. Discovering meaning, finding purpose, making change, becoming the best version of yourself – being the person you want to be – none of these are possible without being vulnerable. But as Brené Brown reminds us, to be vulnerable is to be courageous.
Some questions to reflect:
What does vulnerability mean to you? Do you view it as weakness or courage?
Does sticking to what’s comfortable and safe hold you back?
Can embracing risk and uncertainty help you achieve your goals?
If this post resonates with you, I would love to connect and explore your challenges, and work with you to find solutions. Let’s embrace vulnerability together.
Connect with me here: www.jakelanger.com/contact
