College is an amazing opportunity for new experiences and the freedom to explore your passions—and it’s also a time of vulnerability. You’re trying to figure out just who you are and what you want out of life, and that can be scary. But being vulnerable doesn’t have to be a bad thing; in fact, it is actually a great way to work in a little self-care! Being vulnerable allows you to establish and strengthen relationships with others so you have more support when you do go outside your comfort zone for a new experience—or realize something you thought you loved isn’t really for you. Being vulnerable also helps you grow as an individual, as you learn how to handle both the risks and the rewards of opening yourself up in this way.
To practice, pay attention to any topics or situations that bring up a “fight-or-flight” instinct. Instead of following that instinct, take a deep breath and reflect on your needs, thoughts, and emotions in the moment. If you’re bummed by a bad grade on a test and your roommate asks how your day went, allow yourself to share feelings of disappointment instead of insisting on being “fine.” And when someone offers to support you as a result—like if that same roommate tries to cheer you up with a hug or funny joke—let them, instead of putting up a wall.