Effective leadership demands confidence, decisiveness, and the agility to adapt when needed. As managers, executives, and CEOs, we often lean on our strengths and certainty to drive success. While these qualities are essential, what if our failures, weaknesses, and vulnerabilities could also be valuable assets? Embracing vulnerability can feel daunting and humbling, especially when leading others, but research reveals that demonstrating humility in the face of challenges can profoundly inspire, engage, and connect with our teams.
The Strength in Vulnerability
Brené Brown, renowned author of Daring Greatly and The Power of Vulnerability, has shown through her research that vulnerability is the foundation of meaningful social connection. Far from being a sign of weakness or submission, vulnerability is about having the courage to show up as your authentic self. This approach challenges traditional norms of “maintaining a professional distance” and instead encourages intentional steps toward embracing uncertainty, risk, and emotional openness.
Striking the right balance between strength and vulnerability requires authenticity and humility. As a leader, you can project authority and determination while staying connected to your personal challenges and emotional experiences. To embrace vulnerability in leadership, consider these actionable steps:
Embrace Honesty
Vulnerability is a strength because it demands radical honesty—with yourself and others. Acknowledging your shortcomings, failures, and challenges is the first step toward recognizing areas that need growth, whether in your personal habits or your business practices. As a leader, ask yourself: Where might you be avoiding the truth? Where could you be concealing weaknesses instead of addressing them?
Embrace Imperfection
Perfection is unattainable, and the willingness to accept your imperfections allows you to focus more effectively on your strengths, collaborate with others, and build deeper connections. Every leader has areas where they fall short—by acknowledging and embracing these weaknesses, you create opportunities to find innovative solutions and foster a stronger, more cohesive team or organization.
Share Your Story
Authentic vulnerability as a leader begins with sharing your personal stories of both success and failure. While some leaders may prefer to maintain an air of mystery, true connection and effectiveness come from openness. By revealing your journey, passions, and motivations—particularly the emotional drivers behind your actions—you inspire trust, foster deeper connections, and demonstrate relatable humanity to those you lead.
Embrace Risk and Uncertainty
Leadership often involves navigating tough decisions with no guaranteed outcomes. Taking risks is essential for growth, and as a vulnerable leader, it’s about confidently handling the results—even when things don’t go as planned. Remember, leaders are not fortune tellers; it’s okay to approach strategic challenges with uncertainty. What matters is how you adapt and move forward.
Connect and Engage
Authentic vulnerability as a leader means meeting your employees on an emotional level. Dr. Brené Brown recommends gestures such as checking in with an employee who has a sick child or offering support during times of loss or hardship. It also involves taking responsibility when things go wrong and asking for help when needed. As a leader, don’t remain on the sidelines—relate to your team in genuine, meaningful ways while maintaining your role as a source of strength and guidance.
If you aspire to become a more authentic and vulnerable leader, these steps provide a practical starting point. However, if you find this journey challenging, consider discussing your goals and obstacles with a coach who can offer personalized guidance. Additionally, explore our toolbox for valuable resources to boost your confidence and refine your skills in leadership and vulnerability through ongoing practice.