Brené Brown's TedTalk on The Power of Vulnerability continues to inspire. While multitasking on the elliptical this morning, looking for a resource for a client, I chose to rewatch this powerful TedTalk and want to (re)share some of Brené Brown's insights. It’s hard to believe she offered us this wisdom back in 2010. It's more relevant and important today than ever! Watch and listen (again, even if you have):

Through her research, she found: "The people who have a strong sense of love and belonging believe they're worthy of love and belonging.” What did they have in common? One fundamental thing: "They fully embraced vulnerability. They believed that what made them vulnerable made them beautiful.”

As you go through your own day, ask yourself if you ever numb yourself from feeling. There are so many ways to hide from perceived pain, whether it's through food, an electronic device, a substance, blaming others, whatever. Take a deep breath, and then try to make a change today. Let yourself be fully seen and turn towards your vulnerability, even if it’s hard to do. Even if it’s scary. As Brené Brown shared, a negative cycle can take place where we close off to vulnerability when we feel shame or judgment. "The more afraid we are, the more vulnerable we are, the more afraid we are. This is what politics looks like today. There's no discourse anymore. There's no conversation. There's just blame. You know how blame is described in the research," she asks. "A way to discharge pain and discomfort.”

So, have compassion for yourself. Instead of numbing vulnerability, try to find empathy for yourself and those around you. We can do better. There is incredible value and meaning in connection — It shows our strength as humans when we can be vulnerable alone and together. Give yourself a gift -- embrace your vulnerability and believe you are worthy of love.