Firstly, I would like to wish you a very happy, healthy and successful 2025 and hope that this year brings you all you wish for in life.
Last week’s Thought was “The Paradox of Connection in a Hyperconnected World” and challenged the myths, like “Stranger Danger,” that limit our capacity to connect authentically. If you missed it, you could catch up here
This week let’s take that conversation a step further by exploring how vulnerable communication can transform leadership.
In a world that prizes efficiency and outcomes, vulnerability is often overlooked as a life skill or leadership ability. Yet, it is through vulnerable communication that leaders forge trust, inspire innovation, and create resilient teams.
In life and at work, we often feel pressure to project strength, confidence, and certainty. But what if our true strength lies in our ability to communicate openly and authentically – even when it means showing vulnerability?
While vulnerability fosters trust, innovation, and resilience in life, at work, in teams and communities, how often do we hold back from showing vulnerability through fear?
Vulnerability as Strength
Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s a bridge to trust, innovation, and stronger relationships. By acknowledging our imperfections and uncertainties, we create space for others to do the same, fostering collaboration and resilience.
Leadership is often equated with having all the answers. In reality, the most effective leaders are those who acknowledge what they don’t know, embrace their imperfections, and communicate openly. Vulnerability fosters trust by showing that leaders are human, approachable, and invested in genuine connection.
Example:
Think of a time when a leader admitted a mistake or uncertainty. How did it impact your perception of them? The chances are, it made them more relatable and trustworthy.
Building Psychological Safety
Creating a space where others feel safe to express ideas, take risks, and even fail is critical for innovation. Vulnerable communication is the foundation of psychological safety.
Tips to Foster Psychological Safety:
- Be Transparent: Share your decision-making process and admit when you don’t have all the answers.
- Ask Meaningful Questions: Instead of seeking validation, ask questions that encourage honest dialogue, like “What’s one thing you think we could do better?”
- Celebrate Effort Over Perfection: Acknowledge growth and learning, even when outcomes fall short.
Practical Strategies for Vulnerable Communication
- Start Conversations by Listening: Practice active listening without interrupting or trying to “fix” the conversation.
- Share Authentically: Open up about a challenge or lesson you’ve learned. This sets the tone for honest exchanges.
- Lead by Example: Model vulnerability in your interactions, showing your team that it’s safe to do the same.
The old narrative of leadership – one of invulnerability and control – no longer serves us in a world that thrives on connection. By embracing vulnerability, leaders can build stronger relationships, inspire creativity, and foster a culture of trust and innovation.
Each step you take toward authentic communication not only strengthens your leadership abilities, it also creates a ripple effect, empowering others to connect and contribute more meaningfully.
Are you ready to make 2025 the year that you move forward with courage?
This week, I invite you to consider:
- How do you approach vulnerability in life an at work?
- What small action could you take to model openness and authenticity?
Let’s rewrite the narrative around communication together. What insights or experiences have you had with vulnerability in life and at work? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
“Leaders must be comfortable being vulnerable, because only then can they create a culture where everyone feels safe to take risks and bring their best selves to work”
–Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft)-
With warmest wishes,
Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!
P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here
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