Self-Development: Vulnerability Post✨
2022 I lost myself. Constant changes and negative events turned me into someone I couldn’t face because I constantly went against who I was. I realized that I didn’t really feel safe about being my true self or didn’t have time to be my full self to please the likes of others. Or I would overextend myself when I found someone else who knew my value but would dim my light to keep me attached to wanting to make them proud.
Until I realized Dec. 2022, I became disgusted with who I saw. I ended up journaling; detailing who I was and who I wanted to be. I also mentioned and listed the details of what I wanted in a man.
Jan 2023, I got into a relationship with someone I went to school with in college. I wasn’t attracted to him at all. But he was present in and out of my life for a couple years. Checking on me to see how I was doing. The only person who I actually found that was genuine when talking to me. So I was like “He’s not my type usually but let me see.” And I have realized he is the man I described in my journal. I couldn’t believe it I was so fascinated by that I began to become interested in pleasing him that I forgot about myself. Which came to our first discussion. I don’t call them arguments because when we sit and talk, we respect each other enough to listen the best way we know how. Anyway, after our conversation it made me realize that God has blessed me with my starting point. Trust him and be open to how this man is used to help strengthen me. He didn’t give me someone I wanted but someone I needed. (We feel the same way)
I no longer rely on him to define my happiness. I rely on me and my strength in God. This has allowed me to find my confidence and my own strength. It has highlighted my bad habits and see the things I need to work on. I realize that I would always talk about doing things I wanted to do or was too afraid to accomplish because of how much I cared about making other people feel comfortable. Now I have a voice! He makes me feel safe enough to express myself authentically. I am able to consistently become myself at my own pace. And that bad things happen it’s life but I have a choice to be happy. I’ve done so many things I wanted to do before I didn’t do because of my opinions of others.
I ended up doing a big chop which was the longest thing I ever wanted to do. I did it when he was away so didn’t even know I was going to do it. He came home and I was so nervous to see his reaction. Ultimately, he didn’t care he just wished I did it sooner lol. He consistently challenges me to not be afraid of being who I want to be.
My mindset has now shifted. Which is to be the best version of myself. I no longer care about other people’s opinions, especially those who talked me out of being my true self. And I am gaining trust in myself to continue to grow as a better person not just for me but for my family and friends and relationship. My self alignment journey has just truly started but I’ve learned to stop and appreciate the small things. Strengthening my relationship with God allowed me to constantly work on my flaws. I have a LONG WAY TO GO. But I am pushing. I always tell myself that I may be beaten but I am not defeated. To always see the good even in the bad because whether I choose me or not the bad will always be bad. I will prevail.
Self Confidence is truly important when it comes to living. Without it you just try to survive, make it work. But with self confidence you open up the opportunity to make everything work for You! Change is necessary, scary but necessary. As long as you have faith that you can do it and trust in whatever you believe, you can do anything you put your mind to.
#growthmindset #lemon8challenge #vulnerability #embraceeveryrelationship #unfiltered #mindfulness #intentionalliving #godisgood #100followers #cheersto100
In recent years, embracing vulnerability has become a pivotal aspect of personal growth and self-development. Understanding your worth and allowing yourself to be vulnerable can lead to deeper relationships and a more authentic life. Many individuals embark on a self-alignment journey similar to the author’s, where the focus shifts from seeking validation from others to finding inner strength and confidence. Practicing self-reflection through journaling can bring clarity about your desires and goals. By articulating who you want to be and what you seek in relationships, you create a roadmap for personal growth. A significant step in this journey can often include confronting societal pressures or the fear of judgment, which holds many people back from exploring their true selves. The experiences shared, such as making bold personal choices like the 'big chop,' symbolize a freeing decision-making process that arises from gaining self-confidence. This is a powerful affirmation of taking charge of one’s narrative and seeking authenticity. Building resilience through faith and an inner belief system allows individuals to navigate life’s challenges with grace. It’s essential to remind ourselves that personal growth is ongoing; patience with oneself is just as vital as ambition in achieving a fulfilling life. Ultimately, recognizing that it’s okay not to meet everyone’s expectations is liberating and part of the journey towards becoming the best version of oneself.
