Exploring vulnerability, a podcast episode from Invisibilia uncovers how embracing one’s fears can lead to a safer life. The episode features a man named Jason Comely, who, after his wife left him, developed a paralysing fear of rejection. To combat this, Comely turned his fear into a game, challenging himself to be rejected at least once a day. This exercise helped him overcome his fear and regain control of his life.
The podcast also discusses the concept of “non-complementary behaviour,” a term in social psychology that refers to responding to hostility or negativity with kindness or positivity. A story is shared about a dinner party in Washington D.C., where guests reacted to an armed intruder with calmness and compassion, eventually leading to the intruder putting down his weapon.
These examples demonstrate the power of vulnerability and non-complementary behaviour in creating safer environments and overcoming personal fears. They suggest that by exposing oneself to fear and responding to negativity with positivity, individuals can regain control of their lives and potentially diffuse threatening situations.
Go to source article: http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2016/06/17/482203447/invisibilia-how-learning-to-be-vulnerable-can-make-life-safer