Well it’s official!
I am excited to announce that today is the official launch day of Gattoni Psychotherapy!
I can honestly say, I am feeling all the feels today-happy, excited, scared, joy. I had been thinking of opening my own private practice for several years now, however, fear of the unknown, anxiety and my own internal dialogue of self-doubt and self-criticism held me back. I was afraid to be vulnerable, afraid of putting myself out there, afraid of possible failure-all leading me to feel stuck and leaving me feeling incomplete.
Very often I speak with my clients about the power of vulnerability and how vulnerability is the courage of putting ourselves out there despite knowing it might hurt us or evoke fear. We become more resilient and brave when we are vulnerable and embrace who we truly are, our needs and what we are feeling. It was on this day two months ago that I decided to lean into that fear, the discomfort and embrace vulnerability and allow it to foster to a new, exciting beginning. How could I speak to my clients about the importance of leaning in, if I myself could not do the same?
What is it about vulnerability that scares us or makes us feel weak? Being vulnerable means loving and accepting ourselves, admitting to times when we are wrong or have made mistakes, taking risks, accepting and acknowledging our weakness in order to grow, and forgiving ourselves and others.
Most of us fear that if we reveal our authentic, true self that we will be rejected or judged. However, there is great courage in vulnerability. When we break down our walls and allow people to see both our good and bad sides, it opens the door to connection; it fosters better relationships with others and even ourselves. When we are brave enough to show our flaws, feel/show our emotions and acknowledged/show our weaknesses to others, it allows for empathy, love, happiness and accountability with others. Vulnerability is the key to connection and emotional wellbeing. Vulnerability helps us to find people who will accept us for who we truly are.
In order to learn and grow, we have to try new things, make mistakes, fall and get back up. When we allow ourselves to be our true authentic selves there is nothing to hide from and everything to gain. Think about the power and insight you will possess when you fully love and accept yourself exactly as you are.
Vulnerability is also extremely important for relationships. We have to be completely honest and respectful of one another. When we are in a loving and nurturing relationship there is full acceptance for each other and therefore we do not have to fear making mistakes, crying, or allowing our partner to see our vulnerable sides. Sharing your vulnerability will actually make you stronger and closer, and as a result your connection will strengthen.
“What makes you vulnerable makes you beautiful.”
— Brene Brown
Practice self love and acceptance. Practice leaning in when feeling fear, worries and/or anxiety are holding you back. Be authentic and do not worry about what others think. If we wake up everyday and show up, being present and mindful, and trying to do our best, then no one can take that away from us or criticize us. We all need to let go of judgment, accept what is, love more, and forgive ourselves and others. When we do this the doors to freedom open wide.
For me, opening this private practice, writing this blog and others to come, is just one means of me practicing vulnerability (which has not and I know will not be easy). But I know that this is my purpose and I am committed to being me, leaning-in in times of discomfort, living my authentic life and growing into the best possible version of myself.
Openly and bravely,
Jessica Gattoni
If you haven't already, it will be worth your time to watch Brene Brown's excellent TED Talk about "The Power of Vulnerability."
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