As we navigate relationships, whether they are familial, platonic, or romantic, it’s important to create an open line of communication with the other person. To create strong relationships, we have to let ourselves be vulnerable. I know, it’s scary. The idea of opening up to even our closest friends can create a feeling of anxiety or dread in the pit of our stomachs. In our society, we have created a culture where people do the kind thing of always asking how we’re doing. The conversation usually involves one person saying how are you, the other person saying good, and reverse. Over and over again.
So, why is this a problem?
The problem arises when we feel like we can’t open up to the people that we love. Maybe there’s a fear of burdening someone with our problems, or a fear that they’re not really asking how we are, or a desire to keep everything to ourselves. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to let ourselves be vulnerable to create strong relationships that withstand the storm. Being vulnerable in our relationships means showing up and being brave enough to say that we’re not doing well when asked how we’re doing.
If we want to have strong relationships, we must be willing to accept vulnerability and be vulnerable in return. When someone we love is brave enough to say they’re struggling, it means they trust you enough to be honest. Your job in those moments is to listen and remind them that they’re not alone. If you can be a listening ear, then you can deepen that connection and create a bond between the two of you.
Relationships with friends, family members, and partners can be difficult to navigate sometimes. Maybe there are people you feel comfortable opening up to and others that we want to keep in the dark about our problems. It’s okay if you don’t want everyone in your life to know the gritty details of your problems. However, there’s no shame in opening up to people in our life and being the one that says they’re struggling. You might find that the people in your life have been waiting for you to be vulnerable to give them permission to do so.
sometimes. Admitting that we’re not doing well is frowned upon in some families and you might have some people that are uncomfortable with it. However, it’s important to be honest with yourself and with other people. If you can show up, be present, and practice honesty or vulnerability - you might be surprised by the outcome. Creating open conversations with our loved ones about mental health or problems in our lives deepens our relationships. It can create a bond between two people when they choose to be honest with each other and themselves.
If you’re struggling with being vulnerable or need someone to be vulnerable with, the therapists at Mindsight can help! We are masters at vulnerability and will work with your pace to help you feel comfortable doing so. Reach out today and let us help you create long-lasting relationships with depth.
Shelby Case is a new therapist at Mindsight Louisville! Shelby's favorite things include spending time with her animals and her spouse, watching television (currently they are watching Big Brother), and taking road trips. When she isn't providing therapy to clients, she can be found playing video games (her favorite is The Sims 4) or spending too much money at a thrift store. Shelby's favorite color is green and her guilty pleasure is reality TV shows.
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