Let’s start by acknowledging that right now, there‘s no “around,” there’s only “through.” And we will get through these turbulent times but it will take a while before we look back at this experience in our rear view mirrors. In complete transparency, I attempted to put pen to paper many times across the past few weeks but found my pen was consistently out of ink. These unchartered waters led to writer’s block as well a whole host of other feelings.
I feel vulnerable.
I think we all feel incredibly vulnerable right now.
But, I also think this vulnerability is a gift.
Using Brene Brown’s definition, “vulnerability is about engaging and being all in. Our only question is one of engagement.” One way to think about turbulent times is that it gives us no choice but to be vulnerable against our will. However, I’d like to propose an alternative narrative. This time grants us space. It affords us the gift of engagement. We have a unique opportunity to truly test the depths of our courage with respect to our vulnerability. Being vulnerable allows our truest selves to appear. So what would happen if, instead of resisting vulnerability, we leaned into it? And how do we do that?
You begin by granting yourself permission. “It’s ok to feel vulnerable.”
Leaning into vulnerability is minute by minute and hour by hour. And, it is uncomfortable. Right now, you live in the space of vulnerability one second longer than you think you are able simply because you believe you can. And then, in the next moment, you find the resolve to extend by just one more second because that belief endures.
I believe that people are good, resilient and worthy. I believe not just in who people are but in who they can become. And most of all, I believe that in the most honest conversations…those that occur at midnight in the rain when no one is watching…those that occur with no words being spoken at all…vulnerability is the foundation for connecting with each other. So as waters continue to be turbulent, what can we anchor to?
- Loving unapologetically and #fearlessly
- Leading bravely
- Owning all you have done and said. I regret nothing.
- Compassion…of which we are all capable
- Doing what is right
It turns out, there is a lot to write about on the journey towards a new normal. Our beliefs and what we anchor to is very much in our control. And that is what I choose to lean into. My pen had ink all along.