Getting strength and power from your vulnerability

We have all been vulnerable at one point in life. But did you know that it is through this vulnerability that we get our superpower? As a society, we associate the word vulnerable with being weak, being helpless, and inadequate as most of us usually hide our insecurities, and stresses to a certain degree. Why?

We strengthen ourselves through vulnerability; it allows us to be ourselves and reveal the true person that lies within.

As a CEO, I have struggled greatly with showing vulnerability because of a certain image people create of how CEOs should be viewed and how they should carry out themselves. C'mon, I'm a very easy person and outgoing too. There is no better way to enjoy this life than blend with others; showing them that you are part of them. 

The truth is, we face some high expectations. There is a way society views us and expects us to act as perfectionists. This can be debilitating. 

 Since people fear being judged and viewed differently, they fear embracing vulnerability not knowing vulnerability is just an act of courage and a sign of self-awareness which is impeded by fear or shame. 

There has also been compelling evidence that leaders who are prepared to show their vulnerability more easily gain the trust of others and are in fact, more effective leaders. Employees, customers, and shareholders demand honest and transparent CEOs- those who are not only confident but can be trusted too. 

Recent research however shows that trust in business leaders is declining. It became clear that business leaders need to embrace their vulnerability; if they continue acting like they have nothing to lose or act out of self-interest they will never regain trust from their staff.

I am one person who is always free with everyone. I want my employees to feel part and parcel of my surrounding; I highly encourage vulnerability, people should express their true doubts and concerns. They do not need to worry about how they will be perceived. And they do not have to worry about being themselves around their leaders. 

Let us accept our vulnerabilities as strengths. Being vulnerable isn't that bad and it does not make us weak. It makes us better; it allows us to show our authentic self and stop worrying about every answer and realize it is okay to be wrong.