Pride is a hinderous, as well as an inevitable part of human nature. We hold a ridiculous amount of pride in ourselves and the way we present ourselves. We always want to be the best version of ourselves, which is normal and understandable, but it sometimes gets in the way when we have to reveal a different, less appealing side of ourselves.

That side tends to be vulnerability.

It can be extremely difficult to allow ourselves to be vulnerable. It is especially difficult to allow others to see that side of us. However, revealing our vulnerability to others becomes a significant part of the way we hold and maintain our relationships. Relationships of any matter, whether it is a relationship with a parent, sibling, significant other, friend, etc.

The thing is, we associate vulnerability with weakness. When looked at in a broader sense, it seems as if the ability to reveal vulnerability is actually a very strong characteristic seeming how difficult it is on people.

Revealing and talking about our emotions is something that is not easy for everybody to do, but something that is so beneficial for the soul. Revealing this side of ourselves is something we should all practice as it will help us become more at peace with who we are.

The more I experience life, the more I realize the importance and benefits that come from expressing ourselves. I have always been someone to shield my emotions and not let many people know what I'm thinking. Yet, when I go through life like this, I have nobody but myself to blame for the outcomes I wish I'd get but do not initiate. Instead, I have been learning to communicate better with everybody around me, no matter how hard the topic.

If I find myself upset with somebody, I tell them. If they were not aware I was upset or why I was upset, how could I have expected any changed behavior?

If I find myself missing somebody, I tell them. Communication is hard and is easily misunderstood and lost. If you are straightforward about your feelings and intentions, you'll receive clear answers in return. I know it can be hard to put your emotions and your heart out in the open like that because if it gets hurt, it hurts.

But what if it doesn't?

We always worry about the "what ifs" in the negative. What if this goes wrong? But we rarely think about the "what ifs" in the positive. What if this changes everything for the better? Of course, we cannot control our outcomes as we are dealing with people outside of ourselves, but it helps to understand that something could possibly go right as well.

Exposing yourself in a vulnerable light is not the easiest thing to do. We want to put on a confident front for others to admire and not pity. Ultimately, vulnerability is something that I don't think should be pitied, as it takes so much strength and willpower for somebody to express themselves in such a way.

In the long run, letting your feelings be known is the best possible solution, as there's no way for miscommunication. Part your pride aside, grow up, and communicate.