#113: There is Strength in Being Vulnerable (Even for Men)

FROM THIS SHOW…

Have you ever shared a secret with someone you thought you could trust? Maybe it went well and they listened to you in full support. But sometimes you can misjudge a person, even a close family member, and you find yourself the center of quiet gossip and suspicion.

Opening yourself up to another human being is scary, even if you don’t have ongoing issues with your brain health like those of us with bipolar disorder.

On this episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast, Mike shares how he’s learned to tell the difference between the trustworthy and those to avoid from years of experience.

Don’t miss out on this amazing episode!

Listen to the podcast:

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TAKEAWAYS

• Having a mental illness like bipolar can really mess with your self-image and self-confidence. It is especially hard to experience life without people who you can be authentic and transparent with. It is often an incredibly lonely journey without reliable support people to rally around you when you need it.

• It’s human nature to retreat into ourselves as a way of becoming protected from harmful individuals or groups. But this can backfire if you want to find your “Lifers”. Rather than hide in yourself 100%, take notice of the attractive attributes in others (like vulnerability), and take a step in their direction.

• A “Lifer” who’s going to be a powerful support in your life needs to know that you’re going to be powerful in their life as well. Spend time and put work into becoming the person you would want to spend intimate moments with. Focus on your own trustworthiness and you’ll become a magnet for super high quality people to enter your life.

Lifer Discussion Guide

Use the questions in today’s Lifer Guide to assist you over any hurdles you may have to clear as you address your mental health. These are special conversations!

“Lifers” are people who have unwavering faithfulness. This assures you that they’ll stick by you through all the highs and lows that are normal for a life with mental health challenges. If you haven’t nominated a lifelong family member or friend as part of your non-medical support team, what are you waiting for? :-)

The Questions:

1) Who were some of your closest friends when you were younger? / What attributes (consistent character traits) made them special to you?

2) Who are your closest friends right now? / How are you making time to be with them?

3) What do you think it means to be vulnerable with the things you have going on in your life right now?

4) How would you know if you were successful in living in a vulnerable way?

5) Do you have enough “Lifers” in your social support team? / Who would you like to build a stronger bond with?

Join the Tribe!

Once you’ve had a chance to talk or journal about these things you might have a question from this episode. If so, make sure you head on over to The Bipolar Now Podcast Network on Facebook! There’s quite a few people over there who are also taking a new step in their mental health. And we’d love for you to share your story with us when you’re ready. So don’t miss out!