We Sit, You Speak; We Ignite, You Shine
Vulnerability: A tool for effective communication
Our proficiency in connecting and communicating with others is vital for a happy and fulfilling life. One of the tools for effective communication that is discussed less but, perhaps, has a more powerful effect in establishing a deep connection with others and, therefore, the successful basis for further communication is vulnerability.
Vulnerability is usually perceived as a weakness, over-sharing, or tarnishing our image, and it’s not frequently used. Other words for vulnerability include defenselessness, accountability, openness, amenability, etc.
Vulnerability is the ability to embrace your imperfections and show them to achieve connection through empathy and compassion with other people.
Many of us become defensive because of our experiences, which continually affects our communication with others. Remember that vulnerability is a natural part of growing and expanding. It is the willingness to share your story because you know a message comes out of that mess.
It is vital to understand that the benefit of being vulnerable is that some people may be struggling with the same issues you are dealing with; you may share similar experiences and feelings, and one way you can relate and connect to them and them to you, is to be vulnerable (open) enough to tell them about your experiences and how you are overcoming your struggles.
Furthermore, vulnerability is not over-sharing or providing too much information, nor is it a self-marketing tactic. On the contrary, this tool requires boundaries, without which it becomes nothing but an obvious attempt to seek attention. It is about genuinely sharing from a place of trust and respect that an examination of your intentions can achieve. That is to say, the evaluation of whether sharing is done only for the sake of a cultivated impression or is committed to reaching others on a deeper level, creating understanding and emotional bonds with people.
In the home, especially blended homes (stepparents, stepchildren), being vulnerable with all parties helps to crumble the walls and makes for easier and more wholesome communication. The secret to understanding each other better seems to come not only through an increased ability to read body language or better understand one’s perspective but also through the relational posture of allowing people to tell you their minds openly and honestly by being vulnerable first.
Your openness to communicate your true intentions, fears, and desires helps you to become effective (gracious, compassionate, and empathetic) in your communication.
Feel free to drop the lessons learnt as well as your questions below using the comment box.
