Vulnerability is a Strength, Not a Weakness

There are so many times we try to hide our vulnerability. We strive to be seen as strong, capable, in control — like we’ve got it all together. Somewhere along the way, we’ve been taught that showing vulnerability means we’re weak, not up to the pressures of life.

But I’ve come to believe the opposite is true. Vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s courage in its rawest form. It takes far more strength to be open, to say “I’m struggling,” or “I don’t have the answers,” than it does to wear a mask of perfection.

Last year, when I was seriously ill and ended up in ICU, I found myself in unfamiliar territory. I didn’t know what was going to happen, and yet I kept trying to be strong for everyone else — putting on the brave face, staying upbeat, pretending I was fine. But inside, I was exhausted. It wasn’t until I was in rehab and sitting with one of the psychologists that I finally broke. I let go of the pressure to hold it all together. I cried. I let myself be seen. And honestly, it felt amazing — like a weight I didn’t even realise I was carrying had been lifted.

What I’ve realised is that vulnerability doesn’t undo your strength — it completes it. It brings balance. It invites others in and says, “Hey, you’re not alone.”

So maybe we could all soften a little. Let people in. Be more real, even when it’s uncomfortable. Vulnerability isn’t about oversharing or dramatics — it’s about being honest, present, and brave enough to be seen for who we really are.

That’s not weakness. That’s strength.