Vulnerability Is Perfect Protection
(I know, it sounds backwards. But stay with me.)
We’ve been taught that protection looks like steel. Like having the perfect comeback. Like guarding your heart with crossed arms, polite nods, and "I'm fine, really." Like staying small enough not to be seen, so no one can aim their arrows.
But what if the most powerful shield isn’t built from armor… …it’s built from truth?
What if vulnerability is perfect protection?
Not because it keeps the world from hurting you. But because it keeps you from betraying yourself.
The courage to stop pretending
A client once said to me:
“I keep showing up how I think they want me to. Strong. Capable. Untouchable. But inside, I’m exhausted.”
And of course she was. Pretending is heavy. So is perfection. So is people-pleasing.
But here’s the real kicker— Even when she did everything “right,” she still felt unseen.
You know why?
Because no one can truly see you if you’re hiding behind a mask. Even the shiny, well-put-together kind.
And when we’re not seen… we’re not safe.
Vulnerability invites what’s real
When you say “I don’t know” When you say “This hurts” When you say “Here’s what I need” You make contact with life.
You stop performing and start relating.
And sure, that openness can feel terrifying. But you’re not exposing yourself to harm. You’re exposing yourself to connection.
That’s where the real safety is. Not in controlling every impression— but in letting yourself be fully human.
You are safest when you're self-honest
When you’re honest with yourself, you’re not easy to manipulate. When you’re grounded in your truth, no one can define your worth for you. When you give yourself permission to be tender, messy, complicated… You stop waiting for the world to love you in order to love yourself.
That’s protection. That’s power. That’s real.
So maybe this week, just once, you let yourself say the thing that feels tender. Not for approval. Not for applause. Just to stay close to your own heart.
And notice what happens.
The world might not always respond how you hope— but you will. And you’re the one you most need to be loyal to.
Because being vulnerable with yourself? That’s not weakness.
That’s the beginning of being free.
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