Vulnerability: Gen Z's Hidden Superpower (Yes, It's a Power Move!)

So, here’s the deal: Gen Z has a bit of a reputation for being the oversharing generation, right? You know, the “I’ll post my deepest thoughts on TikTok at 2 a.m.” vibe. And let’s be real—some people say that’s a bad thing. But I’m here to tell you, it’s actually your superpower. Seriously. Vulnerability is pure strength wrapped in a cozy, emotional blanket.

I had a Gen Z ask me recently after my session in IDEAFEST 2024, if oversharing is bad, and if being labeled as "weak" and "indecisive" is something they should work on. And you know what I told them? That they’re actually braver than they think. It takes guts to be vulnerable in a world where people still see emotional openness as a flaw. Showing up as you—the raw, unfiltered, unedited version—is a flex.

But hey, let’s not just stop there. Vulnerability is the start of your story, not the end. It’s about asking, "Okay, I’m feeling this… now what?" What comes next is where the magic happens.

Flipping the Script: What’s Beyond the Feeling?

Let’s break it down: instead of sitting with fear, anger, or sadness like it’s the last episode of your life, ask yourself, “What’s the good intention behind this?”

• Fear isn’t your enemy. It’s your brain waving a neon sign saying, “I’m trying to protect you from something.” Instead of letting it freeze you, ask, “What’s this fear really about, and how can I use it to prepare better?” That shift turns fear into your personal life coach.

• Anger—oh, I love this one. Anger is that loud, stubborn friend that won’t shut up about something not being right. But here’s the trick: before you pop off, ask, “What’s this anger trying to tell me?” and “How can I make my point in a way they’ll actually hear?” Boom, you’ve just turned rage into productive problem-solving (and let’s be real, that’s next-level EQ).

Energy with a Purpose

Now let’s talk about frustration. When you’re all wound up, that’s energy. Instead of wasting it on ranting, use that energy to fuel action. Figure out what’s getting under your skin and ask yourself, “How can I channel this into a change?” It’s like taking a power-up in a video game but in real life.

Sadness: Your Quiet Teacher

Now, sadness. Yeah, it sucks. But ask yourself, “What’s beyond this sadness?” Most of the time, sadness nudges you into reflection, which then leads to growth. And when you emerge on the other side, you’re more aware, more in tune with what matters.

Your Digital Life: More Than Just a Sad Moment

And since we’re talking Gen Z, we can’t forget the TikTok and IG of it all. You share your stories online, but let’s be real—your story doesn’t end at that moment when you’re down. What’s the next chapter? Use your platforms to not only show the struggle but the growth that comes after. That’s where your content becomes inspiring.

The Big Takeaway: Vulnerability + EQ = Growth

So, here’s the deal. Keep being you. Keep sharing, keep being vulnerable, but remember that what you feel now is just the beginning. Ask yourself what’s on the other side of your feelings and how you can use them to grow. Your ability to turn those emotions into productive action is what will set you apart.

So, What About You?

Now that you’ve read this, how do you see your own vulnerability helping you grow? How can you use your feelings as tools for change? Let’s start a conversation, because trust me—this story isn’t over yet.