As children we find ways to protect ourselves from our vulnerability, from being hurt, diminished, and disappointed. We put on armor; we used our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors as weapons; and we learned how to make ourselves scarce, even to disappear. Now as adults we realize that to live with courage, purpose, and connection – we must again be vulnerable. We must take off the armor, put down the weapons, show up, and let ourselves be seen.
More from Brené Brown. So much of my work with teenagers and adults is around identifying the armor taken up in childhood and figuring out how to put it back down.
What armor do you carry? How did it once serve you? Can you, in full gratitude for the protection it offered your young self, release it and step forward lighter, more resilient, and aware of how lovable you are?
I see you and you are beautiful, just as you are.