The Power of Vulnerability

In a recent study published in the New York Times Modern Love section, Mandy Len Catron refers to a study by psychiatrist Arthur Aron that explores whether or not a series of intimate questions between two strangers can accelerate their connection, and, moreover, build a pathway to love. Through a personal experiment—in which Mandy uses the 36 questions from Dr. Aron’s original study to connect with a stranger—Mandy ultimately comes to discover that vulnerability fosters closeness. Vulnerability happens when an individual opens him/herself up completely and entirely to everything in life—whether that is other people, emotions, and/or experiences—and, in doing so, becomes susceptible to being hurt. However, as Dr. Brene Brown–social worker and TED talks guest–discovers in her research, vulnerability doesn’t limit individuals to fall susceptible to pain. On the contrary, vulnerability provides the foundation for joy. This is exemplified through Mandy, who, by allowing herself to reveal intimate facts about her life in an honest way, became vulnerable, and in doing so, found love. While both Mandy’s experience and Dr. Aron’s research shed light on the importance of vulnerability in the pursuit of romantic love, vulnerability is important in all aspects of human life—particularly in the endeavor to feel connected and find happiness.

Cheers,

Rebecca