Lesson learned: Be Vulnerable.

As an artist, my most vulnerable times are during my creative processes.

I can safely tap into expose myself alone and choose whether or not to show my results to others. I can always connect with a piece of paper and a pencil. And although this has satisfied my artistic drive, it has not helped me connect with people.

For most of my life I choose to be a wallflower; the quiet, intense girl in the corner. I longed for connection, but thought I was flawed and therefore, no one would except and love me; I did not think I was worthy.

This feeling was so ingrained, my throat would actually constrict when I would try to speak up for myself or say what I wanted or needed. Many years of therapy, half of a thyroidectomy and one awesome husband later, I had grown by leaps and bounds.

Then, I decided I would start my own business. It is challenging for everyone and for me, it seemed impossible. Self-promotion, networking, opening up and talking to people = vulnerability. Some may quash it, others may deny it, I choose to embrace it. Why? Although it may be difficult, it will yield the best result: strong connections, which lead to other connections, which will eventually lead to a successful business.

Do you feel vulnerable when you connect with others? Do you think it’s important in business?

 

Here is an awesome video about connection and vulnerability: