Many of us fear being vulnerable because we don’t want to be seen as weak. What if I told you that vulnerability isn’t a weakness but a strength?

We grew up with a mindset of perfectionism, fear, and pretense. When someone asks how you are doing, the typical response is “I’m fine.” But how often do we mean it? Let me ask you today: Are you truly okay?

What Is Vulnerability and Why Is It Important?

Vulnerability is the act of opening up to share your fears, emotions, insecurities, and dreams without knowing the outcome. It’s about being honest and real.

I sat down one day, listening to a friend talk to me about her struggles. I was so surprised at her level of trust and vulnerability. That same day, I went home asking myself, Can I be this vulnerable in sharing how I feel with someone? It struck a chord in me that vulnerability isn’t a weakness but a strength.

I called her up the next day to ask how she was doing. She told me how light and free she was feeling. I’m not suggesting you share with just anyone. That’s not the point.

Vulnerability is about choosing to open up with the people in your circle that you trust. Those people who will hold your story with care.

Vulnerability is the pathway to personal growth.

Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is one of the scariest things to do. Why? We are afraid of judgment from others or failure. This reminded me of a powerful quote by Theodore Roosevelt:

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better…but the man who is actually in the arena…”

Growth happens when we learn to step out of our comfort zones.

Overcoming the Fear of Vulnerability

We all have our struggles and fears. Stepping out is not as easy as it sounds, but it’s doable. I struggled with asking for help for a long time until I learnt that it’s a strength, not a weakness.

Here are small steps you can start with:

• Be honest when someone asks how you are.
• Admit when you don’t know something.
• Say “I need help” or “I’m not okay”—even when it feels uncomfortable.

These small acts help build a more authentic version of you.

Vulnerability in Everyday Living

Have you ever met someone who truly understands you? The one you know has got your back.  This connection is often achieved through mutual openness.

•  In friendships, sharing our struggles helps us connect more deeply than small talk ever can.
•  In marriage, emotional intimacy grows when both partners feel safe being themselves.
•  At work,  leaders who admit they don’t have all the answers build trust and encourage their teams to be creative.

How to Embrace Vulnerability

• Journaling – identifying and naming your fears is powerful.
•  Have real conversations—It’s time to have deeper conversations beyond “I’m fine.” 
• Practice self-compassion—remind yourself you don’t need perfection. 

A Gentle Reminder: Vulnerability Isn’t a Weakness 

Vulnerability isn’t a weakness or about seeking pity. It’s about choosing courage. It breeds a life of genuine and sincere relationships. 

So today, breathe and take that small step. Share an honest thought. Admit your fear. Ask for support. You might find out that the very thing you feared is your greatest strength.

Challenge yourself this week: Share one honest struggle with someone you trust.”