Why Vulnerability is an Outstanding Leadership Trait

Many of us in the workplace end up wearing a mask. We're so used to holding back our emotions, pretending to be this perfect, composed version of ourselves that we think our colleagues and bosses want to see. We work hard to fit in and meet those "got-it-together" expectations.

But here's the thing: hiding behind this mask can be a real buzzkill. It gets in the way of genuine honesty, stops absolute trust from blooming, and keeps us from letting our true selves shine.

“Vulnerability is about showing up and being seen. It’s tough to do that when we’re terrified about what people might see or think.” — Brene Brown

Vulnerability in the workplace is a tough nut to crack for many of us. We often think that being strong means being unyielding and that letting our guard down makes us look weak. But in reality, it takes a boatload of courage to let people see us with all our messy, imperfect bits.

Why? Because it's a conscious choice to let our genuine selves step into the spotlight rather than hiding behind a façade to please others. The challenge here is finding comfort in embracing the inherent vulnerability of being human.

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According to Brene Brown, who's all about this vulnerability stuff, it's not about being weak. It's about having the guts to show up even when you have no control over what's coming your way.

"There is such relief in 'showing up' and letting a few layers of defenses down. The walls we build to hide our vulnerabilities can keep us away from the people and things we cherish the most. As we get cozier with our flaws, we figure out that it's through our imperfections and vulnerabilities that we forge deeper connections and more meaningful relationships. We learn that being vulnerable is tied to trusting and having compassion for ourselves."

Now, if you're a leader or a manager and want to stir up some innovation and break boundaries, you've got to create a culture where it's acceptable to stumble and fall. If you aim to help your team reach their full potential, they need the space and the green light to throw ideas out there and experiment. And if you want to keep your top-notch folks around, they need to know they're heard, appreciated, and seen. None of this can happen without a dash of vulnerability.

"Vulnerability is where innovation, creativity, and change are born," -- Brene Brown.

So, for all you leaders and managers out there, it's alright to take off that superhero cape and show you're human. Be authentically you with your emotions and feelings.

We're all in the same boat, dealing with the same stresses and worries. Leading with vulnerability lets others relate to you in a much more honest and genuine way.

Sure, we all want to shield ourselves from potential hurt and disappointment, but here's the deal: if you're always hiding, you're missing out on the pure joy and happiness that comes from being open and vulnerable.

So trust your heart's wisdom, not that corporate voice in your head.