Power of Vulnerability

This week, a series of unexpected interactions with friends and colleagues pushed me into a position of uncharacteristic vulnerability. Rather than retreating to my comfort zone, I chose to expose my inner feelings and invite a conversation that felt risky and uncertain. The result? Surprising insights, strengthened relationships, and a fresh perspective on my situation. I also recently heard a speech from Jon Levy , author of "You're Invited," about the value of imperfection and benevolence in building trust. In fact, a few minor human mistakes are shown to endear us to other people (for example, watch any romantic comedy and you’ll notice a few innocent blunders that characters make). These experiences led me to reflect on the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership. As I delved deeper into this concept, I realized that my fear of being too vulnerable and of making mistakes had been a significant self-limitation. It became clear that embracing vulnerability could create flexibility, foster better communication, and make me more open to change – qualities I've always prized in others.

Often perceived as a weakness, vulnerability is a great strength because it can catalyze growth and connection. When we dare to allow ourselves to be seen – imperfections and all – we create space for authentic interactions and deeper understanding. As leaders, our instinct might be to project an image of unwavering strength and certainty.  But being human, admitting that we don’t have all the answers, and asking for help all lead to a more open culture where team members feel safe to take risks and share ideas. It's important to note that leaders must balance vulnerability with discretion; there are times when displaying uncertainty may be counterproductive. Yet, when used judiciously, vulnerability becomes a powerful leadership tool. Consider the last time a leader openly admitted to a mistake or shared a personal challenge. Chances are, this act of vulnerability didn't diminish your respect for them – instead, it likely increased your trust and willingness to engage more openly. By embracing our vulnerability in appropriate contexts, we create a ripple effect that can transform our organizational culture, while still maintaining the necessary authority and confidence expected in leadership roles.

Embracing vulnerability also enhances our adaptability as leaders. When we're open about our uncertainties, we become more receptive to feedback and alternative viewpoints. This flexibility is crucial in today's rapidly changing business landscape. By admitting we don't have all the answers, we encourage collaborative thinking and empower our teams to contribute their unique perspectives. This approach leads to better decision-making and cultivates a sense of shared ownership and engagement among team members. In my own experience, some of the most innovative solutions have emerged when I've been willing to say, "I'm not sure about this – what do you think?" This simple vulnerability opens the door to diverse ideas and creative problem-solving that might otherwise remain untapped.

Perhaps most importantly, vulnerability humanizes us as leaders. It bridges the gap between the idealized version of leadership and the reality of being human. We become more relatable and approachable when we share our challenges and learning experiences. This authenticity can inspire loyalty and motivation in our teams, as they see us not as distant authority figures but as fellow travelers on a journey of growth and improvement. Moreover, by modeling vulnerability, we create a psychologically safe environment where creativity can flourish and individuals feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work (give @Amy Edmonson’s latest book The Right Kind of Wrong a read if you want to understand the connection between psychological safety and growth). This doesn't mean oversharing or neglecting professional boundaries; rather, it's about finding appropriate moments to show our humanity. It might be acknowledging when we're struggling with a decision, sharing a lesson from a past failure, or admitting when we don't have all the answers. These moments of vulnerability can transform our relationships with our teams, fostering a deeper sense of connection and shared purpose.

In life and leadership, the fear of imperfection or making mistakes can be a significant self-limiter. However, embracing vulnerability opens us to new possibilities, deeper connections, and more meaningful growth. For those we lead and love, our willingness to be vulnerable sets a powerful example. It demonstrates that strength lies not in the absence of weakness but in the courage to acknowledge and learn from our imperfections. As we navigate the complexities of leadership, let's remember that our vulnerability can be our greatest asset – a tool for building trust, fostering innovation, and creating environments where everyone can thrive. The next time you find yourself in a situation where you're tempted to hide your uncertainties or doubts, consider taking a risk. Share your thoughts openly, invite others' perspectives, and see how this act of vulnerability might transform the conversation and your relationships. In doing so, you may find that what you once perceived as a weakness becomes your most authentic source of strength and connection.

With love, gratitude and wonder.
Scott