The Need to Be Strong Is Overrated, Pamela Hazelton | Are.na

Being strong for so long had blinded me to accepting the truth of my situation and kept me from reaching out to others that could help in my times of need. Being strong kept me from realizing that the things we often think are most important in this life, really are not. Being strong had kept me from pursuing an authentic and courageous life. Being... See more

The perception that vulnerability is weakness is the most widely accepted myth about vulnerability and the most dangerous. When we spend our lives pushing away and protecting ourselves from feeling vulnerable or from being perceived as too emotional, we feel contempt when others are less capable or willing to mask feelings, suck it up, and soldier ... See more

The harsh truth is that emotional strength is often a necessity, not a choice. After all who wants to be thrown out into a storm and count “not screaming” as an achievement. Most of us grow up not wanting or imagining to be thrown into a storm in the first place. But when we face life’s toughest realities, emotional strength becomes essential for o... See more

Being honest also helps. Every time I’ve shared the burdens and realities of what I’m going through with others, either 1:1 or publicly, the universe finds mysterious ways to help. People are tired of filters and polished stories of overnight success. Vulnerability is refreshing.