I’m turning 21 soon, and I’ve always struggled with relationships. The first guy I was with manipulated and lied to me for years. I know I was young and naive, but that experience really shaped how I see vulnerability. I was already guarded, and after that, I’ve kept my walls up even higher. Lately, I’ve been slowly learning how to love and appreciate myself, but I still long for real intimacy and connection. I want to be able to open up without feeling like I have to hide who I am or protect myself from getting hurt. (A lot of my intimacy issues come from internalized shame i think) So, how did you learn to feel safe being vulnerable again? How did you let yourself be fully seen and loved without fear? I want the rest of my 20s to be different, free from shame. What helped you get there? submitted by /u/-lorna-
Originally posted by u/-lorna- on r/AskGirls