Avoiding vulnerability is a common awe response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and awe opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Awe
- Concealing awe from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when awe is high is enormous
- Shame about awe thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of awe often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Awe
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in awe) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and awe. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Awe
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.