The Power of Vulnerability!

Embracing Vulnerability: The Courage to Show Up and Be Seen

“Vulnerability is the first thing I look for in you, but it’s the last thing I want you to see in me. In you, it’s courage. In me, it’s inadequacy. In you, it’s strength and lovability. In me, it’s shame.” — Brené Brown

If you’re like me, you probably grew up thinking that vulnerability meant weakness. You likely worked hard to ensure you were seen as strong—never fragile. After all, we’ve been conditioned to believe that being “tough” is the key to success, especially as professional women. But as much as we value strength, it turns out that embracing vulnerability is just as important for our well-being and relationships.

What Is Vulnerability?

Merriam-Webster defines vulnerability as “the state of being left without shelter or protection against something harmful.” That definition sounds terrifying, right? Who wants to intentionally leave themselves open to harm? Not me. Or at least, not the old me. Like many of you, I used to run from the mere thought of being vulnerable. But over time, I’ve learned that vulnerability is a necessary part of truly connecting with others and living a fulfilling life.

Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor and the queen of vulnerability, has some powerful insights on the subject. In her work, she defines vulnerability as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure.” It’s about showing up, letting yourself be seen, and being real—even when you’re scared. And believe me, that’s not easy. Especially when the fear of judgment or rejection is looming large.

Dr. Brené Brown defines vulnerability:

Vulnerability is basically uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure. It’s about showing up and being seen.

It’s tough to do that when we’re terrified about what people might see or think. When we’re fueled by the fear of what other people think or that gremlin that’s constantly whispering “You’re not good enough” in our ear, it’s tough to show up. We end up hustling for our worthiness rather than standing in it.

The difficult thing is that vulnerability is the first thing I look for in you and the last thing I’m willing to show you. In you, it’s courage and daring. In me, it’s weakness.

Guys, The most simple things in life are usually the most meaningful.  It’s great to have our degrees, accolades, financial successes, recognition, ect… At the core of it all, we are all humans and all desire one thing – Happiness!  And as it turns out, vulnerability is a very important bridge to the path of love, belonging, trust, creativity and happiness.

In the next few weeks, we’re going to spend sometime taking about the topic of vulnerability and it’s impact on your lives as women and as a doctors. To get us started, here’s a video on the subject of vulnerability by the queen of vulnerability herself – Dr. Brene Brown:

The Paradox of Vulnerability

One of the most profound things Brené Brown highlights is the paradox of vulnerability. As she puts it, vulnerability is the first thing I look for in you but the last thing I’m willing to show you. Think about it. When you see someone else being vulnerable, you admire their courage and authenticity. Yet when it comes to showing your own vulnerability, it feels like exposing your weaknesses to the world.

Why is that? Why do we see courage in others’ vulnerability but perceive shame in our own?

The answer lies in fear. We’re afraid of being judged, misunderstood, or seen as inadequate. We hustle to prove our worth, keeping our walls up, but in doing so, we distance ourselves from the very things we crave—love, belonging, trust, creativity, and happiness.

Vulnerability Is Key to Connection

Here’s the thing: Life’s most meaningful moments often come from vulnerability. Whether it’s building a trusting relationship, expressing our creativity, or experiencing joy, all of these require us to be open and authentic. Yet, being vulnerable can be tough, especially in a profession where perfectionism is often valued over imperfection.

As optometrists and women, we face unique challenges. We juggle family life, patient care, and personal growth. We strive to be seen as competent professionals while also nurturing our own emotional and mental well-being. Vulnerability doesn’t feel like an option in these roles—it feels like a risk we can’t afford. But the truth is, vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s the ultimate form of courage.

A Personal Story: My Journey with Vulnerability

Let me share a bit of my own experience. Like many of you, I used to think that showing vulnerability would undermine my authority as a doctor and a leader. But life has a way of teaching us the lessons we need to learn. I found myself at a crossroads in both my career and personal life, dealing with challenges that forced me to confront my fear of vulnerability.

There was a time when I was trying to rebuild my practice after a near-bankruptcy situation. I was terrified of being seen as a failure, so I put on a brave face, pretending everything was fine. But inside, I was struggling. Eventually, I opened up to a few trusted colleagues about what I was going through, and that vulnerability changed everything. Instead of judgment, I was met with understanding and support. By letting myself be seen, I forged stronger connections and found the courage to persevere. My practice didn’t just recover—it flourished. And so did I.

The Simple Truth

The simple truth is that vulnerability is at the core of meaningful living. It is the pathway to love, belonging, and the joy we seek in life. The most successful and fulfilled people are those who embrace vulnerability, even when it scares them. They know that being open to uncertainty and emotional exposure is the only way to experience true connection.

Taking the First Step: Optometry Divas and Vulnerability

As we dive into this topic over the next few weeks, I encourage you to reflect on your own relationship with vulnerability. How does it show up in your life, both personally and professionally? What would happen if you allowed yourself to be a little more open, a little more real?

Optometry Divas is a community where we believe in empowering each other through authentic connection and support. Vulnerability is a big part of that. We’re here to remind you that you don’t have to go through this journey alone. If you’re looking for a space where you can be both strong and vulnerable, where you can share your struggles and your successes, we invite you to join us.

Call to Action: Join the Optometry Divas Community!

Let’s face it—being a woman and a doctor isn’t easy. But we don’t have to do it alone. At Optometry Divas, we believe in the power of connection, vulnerability, and support. If you’ve found value in these reflections, consider joining our community. We’re here to uplift and empower each other through the highs and lows of life and practice.

Visit OptometryDivas.com/join to become a part of our amazing network of women optometrists who understand what it’s like to walk in your shoes. Together, we’ll continue to show up, be seen, and thrive.

Remember, the path to happiness, creativity, and fulfillment begins with vulnerability. Keep your heart open to the possibilities of life!

Reflection and Action

Do you resonate with Brené Brown’s perspective on vulnerability? How has vulnerability shown up in your life, and how can you embrace it more fully? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and if this blog has added value to your life, pass it on to a friend who might need it too!