Embracing Vulnerability

Ziga Poromon

Understanding & Embracing Vulnerability

Photo by Finn from Unsplash Photos

Vulnerability plays a huge role for actors, writers, and other creatives. When we play different characters, or create and tell stories, it's essential to tap into emotions and vulnerability in order for beauty and art to blossom. But, it's important for us, as human beings, to understand how to be vulnerable, and open up to honesty with ourselves and others. As performers, how are we supposed to emote realistic feelings if we don't allow ourselves to do it in our real lives? Authenticity is lost in the creative process.

Understanding how to be vulnerable starts with knowing what vulnerability means. Vulnerability is the willingness to be emotionally open and accept the emotional risk. This could be; singing in front of a crowd, talking about your fear of vulnerability, or writing/creating a project that reveals very personal things about your life.

Locate the places in your life that weigh down on your positive energy. Relationships? School? Depression? High Expectations? Be as detailed as you can.

I learned that being open and honest about yourself can be freeing for your soul. As someone who keeps all of my emotions, worries, or fears bottled in, it was difficult to embrace vulnerability. I'm taking a Performing Arts class, and they made us do an exercise which was, going on live video and exposing what makes us feel vulnerable. I wasn't looking forward to doing the exercise since I dislike talking about my feelings. After releasing the video, I realized that I can't emotionally progress in life if I don't embrace those deep feelings. I would rather feel positive emotions and thoughts than negative ones. I communicate better, work better, and feel better. Also, as an actor, being able to feel and embrace a wide range of emotions can elevate your skills, and help support your interpretations when reading a script or play.

The last thing you want to do is hinder your confidence and block the opportunities that are made for you. Once you confront vulnerability, and ask why and how it impacts you in such a negative way, you can then learn how to overcome those negative things and open yourself to the highs and lows of life. And you don't have to go through it alone. If you are willing, talk to someone. Share it with people you trust. 

Being vulnerable is meant to bring healing to your mind, body, and soul, however, negative feelings or problems might not disappear right away, it's a process.

Be patient with yourself and others when discussing mental health and vulnerability. Please reach out to a professional, a family member, or a friend. 



Honorary Reporter, Ziga Poromon, #WeAreHere, Asia Lab.

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