A Superpower in Disguise

What’s my superpower...


I think i’ve always been a very open person when it comes to my feelings. I grew up in a household where we had no emotional restrictions apart from the restrictions we all should learn in regards to how to behave politely.


When I was diagnosed with depression I didn’t find it a problem to tell people I had been diagnosed and was on medication but this was met by understanding but I was also cautioned that I shouldn’t talk about it too openly online because of the stigma attached to depression in the work place. I didn’t understand this attitude and despite the “warnings” I remained open about the issue. Of course I never started a job interview with


“hey guys I’d really like this job but just so you know, I’m clinically depressed!”


I didn’t do that but I never hid it from my colleagues or bosses. If I was ever struggling, I would just be honest and say, I’m sorry if I’m not quite my usual bubbly self this week but I’m having a bit of a down patch.


I can honestly say I was lucky enough to have mainly positive experiences in the work place. I used to think I was just being overly honest or over sharing but what I was in fact being was vulnerable.


I found that I was completely comfortable in my vulnerability, but I hadn’t always been that way. When I was a teenager I would frequently cry when asking for any academic help. The tears were stress and frustration at my own perceived weakness for maths or science rather than sadness. After the years of suffering with my depression and my personal policy of honesty, I realised I’d been practicing vulnerability for so long that it had become a habit. It has almost become a calling card of mine. I found that in the moments when I shared my struggles, others opened up to me about theirs. That led to some wonderful meaning conversations and moments of connection.


Do you feel comfortable to admit when you are feeling vulnerable?


Vulnerability is perceived as weakness but the way I see it, it’s a massive strength. Human beings are by our very nature vulnerable.


I would go as far as saying it’s my superpower, but I’m not sure marvel will be making a film about in the near future! Hahaha.


If you would like to listen to some amazing words on this topic check out
Brené Brown’s TEDX talk on “The Power of Vulnerability”.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o


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