I’ve always been a bit of a clam when it comes to sharing my emotions. Revealing my true feelings is uncomfortable. It allows susceptibility to attack and judgment. I’m good at keeping my emotions hidden. It’s how I’ve always been…a little clam.

“Powerless” is an actual synonym for the word vulnerable. Appearing weak, lacking in power or control; these are defining phrases for this word. But why?

I made a statement to someone recently. I explained that I was going to attend the Summit of Greatness for personal development purposes. Saying that immediately and indirectly made a statement to others, “I’m working on becoming more than I am today and trying to better myself.” Honestly, what could be more vulnerable than telling people you aim to achieve better than your current self? You’ve just exposed an imperfection to them: that you want more from yourself! They now have an “in” to dig at your insecurities and weaknesses. With this information, they can hurt you by deliberately telling you, “You’ll never be great. You’ll never do great things,” or may inadvertently harm you by saying, “that will never work, stop wasting your time.” Not all words are intended to harm, but some sure can do a lot of damage.

I’ll say that again…not all words are intended to harm you. Malevolence is not the intent of many people. I remember a certain person always told me not to set my goals too high because they’d be unrealistic. Truthfully, this person was playing a protective role, but by doing so, was limiting my beliefs and my mindset. I had smaller dreams for many years.

Recently though, I’ve been way more open to disclosing my thoughts, perceptions, feelings, with…well…anyone and everyone…the world, really. My blog is Exhibit A. (I will admit that it’s much easier to share through a screen; still working on face-to-face). This is the first time I’ve exposed myself to others so overtly. I’ve realized “vulnerable” is really quite the opposite of powerless. Embracing vulnerability empowers you and others.

Like a whirlwind, all of these new opportunities came rushing in. Chances at personal development, dream-chasing, growing self-awareness, self-exploration and goal-attaining, etc. New avenues developed in front of me as a side effect of letting myself be vulnerable.

My dreams have become much larger. I saw a fitting place inside vulnerability; I chose to sit there. I chose to explore what being vulnerable could offer. I’ve allowed myself to dream bigger, aspire to achieve greatness, and desire to reach new levels and surpass boundaries. I have embraced vulnerability.

I encourage you to DIG DEEPER this week. Ask yourself the hard questions, like “Why do I act this way?” when you’re upset with a certain behavior. Then take it one step further and tell someone what you learned about yourself. Not surprisingly, you may feel vulnerable. Surprisingly, you may also feel relief after being transparent.