Have you ever wondered why some people seem to grow and develop in the face of change while others don’t? They seem to have the ability to roll with the punches, find new opportunities, be more creative, and be more resilient in the face of constant change. 

Change is like the rotation of the earth on its axis, it is inevitable-thank goodness- and gives us day and night. Growth may or may not happen but we can increase the odds in our favour by being intentional in looking for it.

Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.

This is true for individuals and groups of people. There are principles at play. There are things that if done regularly (habits if you like) that make growth more possible. There are three pieces to the puzzle and here we’ll be talking about one of them: Vulnerability.

One definition of vulnerability is when we are in a weakened state and harm can happen. Brené Brown talks about vulnerability in terms of uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure. These are pretty uncomfortable words at the best of times and the natural response is to hide and avoid showing vulnerability- Much better to be invulnerable.

I used to read comic books where the heroes were always invulnerable, Superman, Iron man, and Black Widow. No sign of weakness on show. Playing video games you get power-ups or cheats. When activated you see this aura of invincibility surround the character, the shield that stops all attacks from getting through. The problem is that the power-ups wear off and you’re left in the same state as before; no further forward, no internal growth. Not stronger, not faster, not better.

The level of vulnerability we have is linked to the possibility of growth. The paradox of vulnerability is that it is the birthplace of resilience. While vulnerability can feel scary it is also a place of acceptance, authenticity, creativity and courage. Out of what seems like a cauldron of vulnerability comes the ability to withstand future shocks.

By now you will have realised that vulnerability is not a one-player game. It needs community. Vulnerability is not a one-off event. It is a continuing process, and the more you do it the better results you will see. One side effect of showing courage in vulnerability is the empowering of others to do the same, building true and long-lasting superpowers.

True invulnerability comes from being vulnerable.

In what circumstances are you vulnerable?

Who are your vulnerable partners? 

What benefits have you seen in walking in vulnerability?