Unlocking Strength and Courage Through Vulnerability

Helping my clients find their inner strength and courage is at the heart of my mission as a coach. I believe that when individuals tap into these qualities, they can live the life they truly desire. However, as we know through the powerful work of Brené Brown, there can be no courage without vulnerability.

For many, the word “vulnerability” brings up negative feelings. Before Brené’s research popularized the topic, vulnerability and shame were rarely discussed openly. We owe much to her for bringing these subjects into the mainstream, allowing more people to feel comfortable talking about them, and for revealing how deeply they impact our lives.

The concepts of vulnerability and courage resonate deeply with me. Like so many others, I’ve struggled with being vulnerable. It’s uncomfortable. But I also know firsthand that finding the courage to pursue what we want—and to live authentically—requires embracing that discomfort. It’s why I’m so passionate about helping others accept their vulnerability and uncover their courage.

A Personal Story of Vulnerability

When I think about vulnerability, a time that stands out for me is when I became a new parent. It was one of the hardest periods of my life. Parenthood, in general, is no small feat, but I found myself in a unique position—none of my close friends or family were becoming parents at the same time. I was the oldest child and grandchild, with no immediate circle of new parents to lean on.

The few new parents I did interact with painted glowing pictures of how wonderful parenthood was, but this wasn’t my experience. I struggled, and I kept it to myself, thinking there must be something wrong with me. It was an incredibly lonely and isolating time, just when I needed support the most.

It took courage to finally share my real experience. Although I adored my son, those early months were grueling—dealing with a colicky baby while navigating undiagnosed postpartum depression and anxiety. But once I opened up, something amazing happened. Other parents began to share their own struggles. It was a revelation. By being vulnerable and speaking the truth, I created space for others to do the same. Suddenly, none of us felt so alone anymore.

This experience taught me the profound power of vulnerability. When one person dares to be vulnerable, it creates a ripple effect, fostering connection and community. We realize we’re not isolated in our challenges, and that understanding brings us closer together.

Creating a Safe Coaching Space

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as a partnership that inspires individuals to maximize their potential. Within this partnership, trust and safety are crucial components, as emphasized in the ICF’s core competencies. One key element is cultivating a safe environment where clients feel free to share openly. As the ICF states, a coach “partners with the client to create a safe, supportive environment that allows the client to share freely, maintaining a relationship of mutual respect and trust.”

In this space of trust and safety, clients can explore their vulnerabilities and, in turn, unlock their courage. As a coach, my goal is to create that very environment—a space where my clients feel completely comfortable being vulnerable. Through this process, they are empowered to make bold choices and take courageous actions that align with the life they truly want to live.

By embracing vulnerability, we all unlock our courage. This is the pathway to growth, fulfillment, and living authentically. My mission is to help my clients on this journey, so they can live with greater courage, strength, and purpose.