Is it always a good idea to put on a brave front?

Question

I almost instinctively put on a confident face, even though I'm usually an emotional wreck inside. I worry that if I show any sign of weakness people will use it against me. Is this being paranoid, or just plain smart?

Answer 1

I do the same thing. I have a tough exterior and may even come across as cold and guarded to some, but inside I'm a ball of vulnerable mush. I'm like the duck you see gliding so peacefully on the water, but hidden underneath his feet are kicking like crazy and his heart is racing! You are just being cautious. I see this as a weakness. I've shut out many good people by putting up a fortress.

Answer 2

It is actually being insecure, but acting self assured, which is the way it should be. Meaning; don't feel insecure, I wonder if you are a male or female, I think you might be a female, you are right about people using that against you.

If you come off being insecure or emotional, (it's a sign of weakness) in which case people don't take others seriously, therefore they don't really care to deal with you. I have seen that many times, it is quite important being firm, self assured, self confident in the world these days, (for the right motives) so you are doing the right thing.

Now you must deal with the issues on your emotions and as to why you feel this way inside. Think about having peace, think things are going to be OKAY! They always are, fear and worry are terrible emotions and they are false, you gain absolutely nothing by worrying. (They are a big waste) this is the meaning of fear:

False &
Erroneous sense
Appearance of things far from
Reality

That is fear, fear is the worst, and such a wrong emotion, it doesn't exist. Fear is only in your head.
So now that you know this, really digest it and apply it, as fear and worry are a major road block and hindrence in our lives

Answer 3

It really depends on the situation. If you are with friends and/or family it's important to be authentic with them. If you are at work or in a public situation, it's best to be professional and "act as if" you are confident, even if you don't feel that way.

Answer 4

You can be as vulnerable as you want. It's just that you have to choose who want to be vulnerable with, and you need to set boundaries with those that don't know you real well.