Vulnerability

 Yesterday I posted a very vulnerable and personal podcast special that went into detail my life’s struggles and how the healing of them had culminated in the creation of Realistic Intentionality. 

Part of me feels the impulse to cringe at the idea of me crying and bearing my story online for all to see. It’s scary to know that people know my secrets or how much this all means to me. Like somehow making things seem casual and unimportant would make it hurt less when people don’t care or worse, have a negative reaction. 

But, I posted it. I know there is incredible value in authentic vulnerability. It shows who you truly are. Where your values and your feelings lie.

It aligns people’s perceptions of you with the reality of what exists within your being. That alignment allows true connection. 

Over years in a world that can be cruel or alienating, putting up walls and defenses can certainly be necessary. However, when it comes to art, to personal relationships, to collaborating to make your dreams a reality, that total, authentic transparency is a necessity. 

It can be hard, though. I consider myself an open book and I struggle with it. If you also struggle with being vulnerable, begin with yourself. Allow yourself to feel the things you lock away. Express them through art or journaling or even just spoken out loud. Trust and accept it in a safe space for yourself. Once you feel safe with yourself, work on it with someone close and trusted. Tell them how you feel or what you think or the project you feel insecure about. Keep building and stretching the limits. Yes, you may face times where the vulnerability is mocked or punished, but the times in which it is celebrated will be the times that truly matter. 

- Dani 💙💚