Hi Natalie. I read you because you are a writer. Your articles, stories are interesting and, yes, display that ‘vulnerability’ you mention. But, writers need that. It helps your readers connect with you.
For instance in fiction writing, if the hero is perfect and has everything go smoothly with no conflict it will be one boring story.
It is often our flaws and vulnerabilities that make us unique and attract others to us, because they can relate.

On Facebook I may share a few posts, jokes and memes, but I rarely write any posts myself. Funny that the people I connect with the most from school were ones I was not close friends with at the time. I can’t explain that.

Your writing is excellent, and yes, I agree with your friend that you would do well as a freelance writer if you chose to pursue that goal.