This is my story about the power of vulnerability…
The day I made this Facebook live video, I’d just heard from my first hater.
It was a few days into my 2018 online interview series, The Life-Changing Power of Ayurveda and I was feeling pretty good about life.
So it was a true surprise to hear cruel and hateful words from one of my listeners that – admittedly – cut me to the core. Her negative comments brought to surface all the times I’d been cruel like that to myself – and I found myself believing the things she said about me.
I immediately started doubting my self-worth and value. I told myself things like, “I knew I couldn’t do this” and felt so depressed that I wanted to roll into a ball, give up and disappear. All in the matter of just a few hours!
Which is why I decided – exactly in that moment – to make this video. I wasn’t going to let myself be conquered by hate. And I wasn’t going to let myself be destroyed by someone else’s opinion of me. I believe in the power of vulnerability, so that’s what I chose to be.
The result that came out of being raw and real? I got to see the difference we ALL make for others by being honest, kind and genuine. I experienced vulnerability as a potent connector between me and my community.
It brought relief to me and was useful for others.
I experienced myself as strong, powerful and beautiful.
Plus, I got to remember that what connects us with each other is so much bigger (and better) than what hatred can ever dream to accomplish. Not one of us is alone.
So, if you watch this, thanks for being my witness. And if you’re a hater looking for a target… I’m sending you a big hug. I know how it feels to hate yourself and the venom that brews within. My wish for you is healing.
“It doesn’t matter – you can be the juiciest peach on the planet… And there’s always going to be someone who doesn’t like peaches.”
Read my other stories and recipes on my blog and tell me what you think!
Love, Talya
Hi Hi Talya,
You are Love & Loved! And tree ripe peaches are divine!
With Joy,
“Maria”
Mwah!!
Talya,
Thank you so much for your video. I appreciate your willingness to be vulnerable and your authenticity. I am really sensitive and hold myself back instead of putting myself out there due to fear of haters, and you inspire me to keep working towards putting myself out there. I love your cookbook and your videos and think you rock. I hope going surfing helped you feel better. Thank you for letting us in.
Thank you, Shelly!!!!
Hi Talya, I enjoy reading your blog and please don’t stop. I too work in the public eye and have received criticism which was unfair and unwarranted. Upon reflection I came to the conclusion it is more about them than it is about us. I remember something I read which said, “You can preach a sermon that 99 people like but you will focus on the one who didn’t. Don’t.” Easier said than done and when I do receive feedback from someone, I ask myself is this person someone I respect? If the answer is yes, I pay attention. If not, I ignore. Not easily done but it helps. Just my thoughts. Your friend in spirit, Diane.
Totally helps and I love your response. Thank you, Diane! So great to have your support and wisdom – for me and everyone reading this!
Thanks for sharing this I feel for you because I too easily go into a self critical spin of negativity good your going surfing
Thank you! Surfing really was so great that day : ) xo
Thank you for being so human and sharing yourself I am beginning to see how my fear of judgements and not being perfect has crippled me in my life. If not too late I’ll join the summit love to you
Thank you so much, Janel!!!