To quote Berne’ Brown, “We are the most in-debt, obese, addicted and medicated adult cohort in U.S. history.” That is a mouthful. Think about the people you know, about those wanting to fit in, to live up to some ideal imposed by friends, family, or society. Think of those you know who, for whatever reason, choose to present an image and cling to that image at the cost of suffering silently and ignoring and disregarding who they truly are, and who they truly can become.
In one of my favorite Ted Talks, Berne’ Brown explores: “How do we learn to embrace our vulnerabilities and imperfection so that we can engage in our lives from a place of authenticity and worthiness? How do we cultivate the courage, compassion, and connection that we need to recognize that we are enough, that we are worthy of love, belonging, and joy.”
Imagine if we can do this, if we dare, how our sense of life satisfaction would increase. Imagine what we could accomplish if we are willing to bravely take this chance and live our lives as our authentic selves.
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The most addicted? America has long been a nation of violent drunks, opium and pot smokers, and meat eaters. Our generation is probably one of the healthiest on record! I say let’s stop denying that dysfunction can be lots of fun– that may help with the whole self-love-esteem thing to start!! Pure mental health is bleepin’ boring. 🙂
Atta boy!
The video doesn’t speak to self-esteem, It speaks to feeling connected with others and being honest with who we are and how we express ourselves. There has been a decline in close connections over the past decades. The quality of friendships have become more distant on average while feelings of loneliness have risen.
Bravo Brene Brown! This talk is truly extraordinary! I think every social worker, mother, father, child and person should watch this! Vulnerability is truly the path to your most joyous and authentic life! I plan to show/discuss this clip in all my social work classes and professional retreats! Thank you a million!
Thanks for that feedback! And I agree, It is a staple in my toolbox!
She’s been a role model of mine ever since first seeking the videos! Love her, and she is so right! It really is difficult trying to be do what you know is right but which doesn’t fit with your ideal life.
Yes, it can be. Yet how wonderful does it feel when we embrace that best, truest part of ourselves?
Self esteem is the foundation of connection to others, and self awareness/honesty. If one does not value oneself, or feel oneself is of worth, they withdraw from others and from self awareness. Personality disorders are some of the most potent examples- learned extreme defensive behaviors to protect a vulnerable ego. One cannot truly love and be connected to others if one first does not truly love and connect to oneself.