While vulnerability is seen as a weakness by many, it can actually be a strength. People who are vulnerable dare to let themselves be seen for who they really are. It’s true that being strong and independent can help you deal with the ups and downs of life better. But if you’re hiding behind a wall and using your self-sufficiency as a cover, you could be missing out on the small joys of life. You could also be distancing yourself from the experiences that bring meaning and purpose to your life.
On the other hand, leaving yourself physically vulnerable can be dangerous. So, if you’re the kind of person who doesn’t think twice about walking alone through a dark alley at night or leaving your drink unattended in a crowded bar, it may be time to make some changes. Here are a few ways to stay safe and happy.
Check in With Yourself and Your Surroundings
Anytime you’re at a new, unfamiliar place, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings. If you’re heading out alone, park your car in a well-lit area not too far from your destination. Your laptop should not be left unattended in public places since it probably contains a lot of private or important information. Also, always make sure your purse is zipped up when walking through crowded areas.
It is essential to stay in touch with your feelings if you’re a vulnerable person. Keeping track of your thoughts and actions can help you tune into what’s going right in your life and the aspects that could do with improvement. A good way to do this is by keeping a journal and writing down your thoughts through the day.
If you find yourself indulging in self-destructive behavior or dismissing your safety, note this down as well, as it could be a sign that something’s amiss. This will help you understand what’s going well and what needs to change in order for you to feel happy and at peace with yourself.
Stay Grounded in Reality
When you’re having a good time, it’s easy to get carried away and not worry about your personal safety. But this is one of the primary reasons why accidents happen. If you’re heading on a night out, make you appoint someone as the designated driver. Always keep your cell phone handy, with your emergency contacts listed on top. Never save important passwords or your social security number online or anywhere where others can access them.
If you’re leaving yourself emotionally vulnerable, you may sometimes read too much into someone else’s actions or behavior. We’ve all been guilty of overthinking a single-worded text or assuming someone is lying to us. The best way to avoid irrational thoughts is by checking in with your family and close friends about whether your worries are warranted. It can help you gain a different perspective on whether your emotions and actions are in line with reality.
Be Open About Your Feelings
Once you understand why you’re feeling a certain way, take to someone you can trust. It is important to be vulnerable about your feelings rather than keeping them bottled up. This can result in them spilling out when you least expect it, leading to bitterness and misunderstandings with others. Instead, talk openly about what’s going on with you. Doing this can help foster mutual feelings of understanding and bring you closer to the person you’re confiding in.
If your vulnerability has let you down in the past, the idea of needing someone or heading out into the world can be scary. It is important to learn from past mistakes and never be in the same bad situation twice. Tune into your emotions and put your safety first to live your best possible life.
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