This is exactly the question that came up yesterday in the training group and we took it up today. Reelikagaon “Leadership without leadership” in the 127th episode of the podcast.
For many, vulnerability is associated with weakness or even manipulative complaining, done in the hope that someone will come to the rescue or pay attention. This is one of the reasons why many leaders fear vulnerability – to avoid looking like a victim and losing their authority.
Real vulnerability is a conscious skill at first, later natural and genuine – it does not weaken, it makes you stronger. If I am vulnerable, I am strong, because there is nothing to attack. Vulnerability also touches people and creates a better bond with others, creating a sense of cooperation through it.
When a leader knows how to use vulnerability in the right way, it builds trust, strengthens relationships and creates an open and safe atmosphere in the team. And that’s what we need in a team to work together, to create new value together, hence greater commitment to results.
Since every relationship has 4 levels and vulnerability is related to interpersonal relationships, there are at least 4 different ways of being vulnerable:
– Emotional vulnerability
– Physical vulnerability
– Mental-spiritual vulnerability
– Intellectual vulnerability
We’ll talk more about how these four levels differ in the podcast, but when applied consciously, vulnerability can be an important tool to build trust and create more honest communication in the workplace.
True vulnerability combines professionalism and authenticity – it deepens humanity, authenticity, aliveness.
