How brave are you in the face of challenge?
Well, it depends on the challenge, doesn’t it? Some challenges inspire us to greatness. External greatness is usually what we focus on. Being great at our jobs. But what if a challenge with a greater payoff was of the inner variety?
A love challenge. What if you could do something today to inspire you to love more authentically than you ever have and deepen a trusted friendship? Well if you’re interested, try this love experiment.
Dr. Brené Brown, professor at the University of Houston, gives us research that shows how the feeling of intimate emotional connection is neurobiologically necessary for humans. It makes us healthier, happier and more resilient.
But connection is hampered by our inner wimp. We are afraid that if someone knows our fears, our mistakes, our self-doubts, they won’t love us as much. But what if with trusted friends the opposite is true?
Over a six-year social survey, Dr. Brown found that vulnerability is the birthplace of joy, of creativity, of belonging, of love. When we allow ourselves to be seen by those we trust, really seen, our ability to love and be loved is amplified. And this has a radiating effect on the people and the world around us.
Your challenge today: Inspire the rest of us with your love story. Tell us how you felt the last time you opened yourself up with someone you trust.
Was the other person caring and supportive? Or did they run a backhoe over your feelings? How did you feel afterward? How do you feel about the experience now? Do you believe that authenticity builds love?
Remember…thought into action = strength.
If you want to know about the power of being vulnerable, click here.
