Vulnerability – The Courage to Be Seen.
- Sally Cross
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
By Sally Cross, Intimacy & Relationship Coach, Therapeutic Coach.
Vulnerability is one of the most powerful elements in a relationship — and also one of the most misunderstood.
For many, vulnerability brings up feelings of fear, risk, or exposure. We worry:“What if I open up and they reject me?”“What if they think I’m too much… or not enough?”
But the truth is, vulnerability is not weakness, it’s strength in its rawest, most human form. It’s the courage to be seen, not just in our polished, capable moments, but in our messiness, our tenderness and our truth.
It’s saying:
“I’m scared, but I want to be close to you.”
“Here’s what I really need.”
“I don’t have all the answers, but I’m here, open and willing.”
When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable with a partner, we create a doorway to real connection, not just surface-level communication, but deep, meaningful intimacy.
But here’s the key: Vulnerability must be met with safety, presence, care, and non-judgment. It needs to be held gently, with empathy, not with ego.
This is where mutual trust comes in. When both partners are willing to let their guards down, to share what’s real and listen without fixing or blaming, intimacy flourishes.
That said, vulnerability is a choice, not a duty. It’s not about oversharing or spilling everything in the hope of connection. It’s about tuning in, knowing your boundaries, and choosing who has earned the right to hear your heart.
And it starts with you. Can you be vulnerable with yourself first? Can you sit with what’s there, the ache, the longing, the shame, the hope, without running from it?
Because when you practise that gentleness inwardly, you bring a deeper presence to your relationships outwardly.
🌿 Vulnerability is…
A pathway to emotional intimacy
A practice of trust — in yourself and in your partner
The birthplace of empathy, compassion and connection
Not always comfortable, but often necessary for growth
Where could you allow a little more vulnerability in your life? And with whom?
Not to prove anything. Not to earn love. But simply to be seen, just maybe, to be loved more fully because of it. 💖
Are you able to expose your vulnerability with your loved one?
Do you have difficulties expressing yourself?
Would you like direction and support in this area of your relationship?
Let's talk..
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