#133: Get Closer By Being Vulnerable (Especially in times of crisis) – Dr. Susan Campbell - a podcast by Shana James: Coach, Speaker, Author

In these challenging times, it’s common to feel more vulnerable than ever. If you are like many, men having learned it’s not ok to be vulnerable, you may find yourself in a painful bind (especially if you’re in containment with your partner!). Today’s guest, Susan Campbell has spent 55 years teaching people how to be honest AND stay connected. 







http://traffic.libsyn.com/manalive/susan-vulnerability_01.mp3







Show notes







How are you doing? 







These are unprecedented times so I hope you’re cutting yourself some slack and learning to have more compassion for yourself than ever before. 







Whether you’re alone or cooped up in a house with someone(s), you are bound to face some challenges. Challenges tend to expose our vulnerability. 







This doesn’t have to be a bad thing though. 







While most of us don’t have getting vulnerable at the top of our “fun things to do” list, vulnerability is actually a powerful doorway to connection. 







On today’s Man Alive podcast I was joined by author and psychologist Susan Campbell. She has been helping people get vulnerable for 55 years, through her books, therapy sessions and workshops! We talked about how our current crisis brings up both physical and emotional vulnerability for people. We also discussed…







* What vulnerability actually is* How to work with the normal pains of adult relationships so they don’t destroy your connection* The best way to get your partner to open up and be vulnerable with you* How to use this time of massive change to  deepen your connection and love * An exercise that makes it easier for you to get real







Many of us, including myself, have a habit of defending ourselves or pulling away when we feel vulnerable. 







There is no right way to respond to intensity and things go a lot smoother when we can witness our patterns in the midst of stressful situations, rather than act out toward our loved ones.







I recently admitted to my partner: “It now seems clear that I deal with stress by becoming more protective and rigid.” 🙁 







Fortunately he’s not taking it too personally and is doing his own work to stay grounded and loving. 







During this time you have a chance to both learn about yourself and become more conscious of how you treat others. 







It’s a powerful time to do the work it takes to make a relationship last. 







If you’re struggling with any of this, reach out to me. You can simply email me at shana@shanajamescoaching.com or if you want me to know more about your situation, fill out this form to share more about yourself.







I’ll keep recording podcasts and considering others ways I can support you.







Links:







Dr. Susan Campbell 







Curious what you’d need to become a better leader and lover? Man Alive

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