It's easy to put up walls around your heart. After each broken heart or disappointment, we build those walls a little higher, a little thicker and make them stronger so the next time we won't hurt as much.
But what if it was okay to be vulnerable?
What if it is okay to live without these walls?
I'm here to tell you that you should.
If you live with more vulnerability, you'll be much more open to the possibilities of life. Not everything will go the way you want it to, but you'll be able to hold onto the hope that it will. In a TED talk, Brené Brown spoke about how vulnerability is necessary to the human experience: "I believe what makes you vulnerable makes you beautiful."
Living with vulnerability not only makes you beautiful, but it makes you strong and powerful.
If you've built up too many walls, it's time to start tearing them down. Don't completely destroy them, but open some windows. Slowly let in a little more light and air that will allow you to breathe and be more vulnerable. Here are 10 ways you can get started:
1. Don't be afraid to let go
We all like having control over things. It's when we lose control that we lose sight of what's right. We end up focusing too much on our failures than all of our achievements. Sometimes you just need to take a deep breath and let go of the stress. Go with the flow.
2. Have the willingness to be the first
Be willing to be the first. The first to say, "I love you." The first to say, "I'm sorry." Don't let fear of what others may think hold you back from expressing your true feelings.
3. Don't numb your emotions
When you have so many walls up, it's easy to be numb to everything. You forget what really means to feel. Allow yourself to feel things. It's okay to laugh, to mourn, to cry and love.
4. Learn to use your voice
Your voice is one of the most wonderful gifts you have. Use it. Don't suppress your voice when you have something to say. While others may not appreciate what you have to say, you have a right to express your opinion. Never hold yourself back from saying what you mean.
5. Be in tune with your heart
Don't neglect your heart and what it tells you. Sure your mind is powerful, but don't forget about what your heart has to say. Let it lead you and guide you to where you want to go.
6. Live with values and morals
Always keep your standards high. Live with values and morals that will guide you. Never lower your standards for something. You can still be vulnerable while having set morals and values for who you want to be.
7. Remember who you truly are
Never forget who you are. When you know and understand who you are, you can take on the world. Be in tune with your inner compass and let it guide you. If you're still trying to figure yourself out, don't be afraid to be vulnerable enough to find the truth about yourself.
8. Enjoy the experience
Allow yourself to ride the waves of life. Experience life through your own eyes. Put down your phone and look up for once. Living life will allow you to make wonderful memories you can look back on. You'll only become a better person for it.
9. Revel in the possibilities
The possibility of having something more and something better is something you must cling to. While you won't get everything you've ever dreamed, it's okay to dream. It's okay to want for something more. Some dreams come true, while some won't. Revel in the possibility that you can accomplish what you want.
10. Never be discouraged
Do not be discouraged if things don't go the way you wanted. Some things end so better things came come your way. Don't get your hopes up too high, otherwise you'll never be happy. Enjoy that you had the opportunity then focus on finding the new doors that have opened up for you.
