Vulnerability is something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately. At the beginning of the new year, I learned a new technique for naming/manifesting what you want to create in 2026. Want to know what it is?
It’s really simple, which is one of the reasons I like it. It goes like this: you simply say the thing you want to create, such as
“vulnerability”, followed by the words “is in”. Then you say the phrase “_______ (the opposite) is out.” So, in this case, I would say something like this: Vulnerability is in. Hiding is out.
Why Vulnerability Matters More Than Ever
I picked vulnerability for my example for a couple of reasons, which you might be interested in. First, I read a recent article about what makes a person likable. Guess what is the number one trait? The willingness to be real and vulnerable with others.
People like people who are willing to show that they are human and imperfect. It helps them like and accept themselves more. Makes sense, right?
Also, my partner and I have been consciously practicing being more vulnerable with each other for months. I can tell you that it has made me love both myself and him more and made me feel closer to him.
A Small Moment That Meant a Lot
The same day I learned the new technique, I took a walk on the beach in front of my friend’s house. I was looking down and saw a beautiful pebble on the beach. It reminded me of one of my cousins and how we used to go for walks together when we were on vacation with our families at White Horse Beach in Manoment, MA every summer. When I walked with other kids, we’d be looking for sea glass, but when I walked with him, we would look for cool rocks because that’s what he loved. I loved both.
In the spirit of being vulnerable, I decided that every time in 2026 when someone pops into my head, I will reach out to them to say hi, even if it’s just a quick text. This happens to be a cousin that I love, but who is usually the one who reaches out first, whereas I am the one who responds and usually feels guilty for not being the one to reach out first. You know those kinds of people in your life?
I texted him and told him that I was thinking about him and told him why. I asked if he remembered our childhood walks. He responded by saying “best times ever <3”. This interaction took 60 seconds. And it was so worth it.
An Invitation for the Year Ahead
What do you think about this technique?
What do you think about more vulnerability?
I recommend both.
Published on: 01/09/2026.