Dare To Be Vulnerable!

Recently hertelier extraordinaire, Lan Elliott, sent us the following email…

 “Curious if hertelier has done an article about vulnerability?  If not, it may be an interesting topic to consider.  I suspect it’s something women could be naturally really good at (if the real world didn’t stomp on us when we tried to be vulnerable, that is).  How many have covered up their true selves, as protective armor, when being vulnerable could have been our superpower?  And it is if you believe Brené Brown.” 

When I read Lan’s email, I was reminded of a quote by philosopher Sun Tzu (had to look it up BTW), "If you wait by the river long enough, the bodies of your enemies will float by." Which, metaphorically speaking, suggests that patience is a more effective strategy than revenge. In other words, it’s about time that qualities like vulnerability and empathy – once viewed as antithetical to good leadership- are now considered valuable skills.

So, it’s an interesting topic, alright, Lan… and one that’s close to my heart, given that I have always been a vulnerable leader and frequently chastised for it by unevolved bosses who suggested I “toughen up.”   That’s because, until very recently, vulnerability has been synonymous with weakness when, in fact, it takes great strength and courage to be truly vulnerable.

"In our culture," teaches Dr. Brené Brown, "we associate vulnerability with emotions we want to avoid such as fear, shame, and uncertainty. Yet we too often lose sight of the fact that vulnerability is also the birthplace of joy, belonging, creativity, authenticity, and love."  

In her audio program, The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connection, and Courage, Dr. Brown dispels the myth that vulnerability is weakness and reveals that it is, in truth, our most accurate measure of courage. It offers both an invitation and a promise:” When we dare to drop the armor that protects us from feeling vulnerable, we open ourselves to the experiences that bring purpose and meaning to our lives.”  Amen to that, Dr. Brown!

“Vulnerability in leadership isn't about exposing your flaws indiscriminately,” shares Executive Life Coach & Personal Development Expert, Dale Wilsher In Shattering The Perfection Myth: Vulnerability As A Leadership Superpower for Forbes. “It's about strategically understanding these aspects of your personality so you can manage them effectively. By embracing vulnerability, leaders not only foster their own growth but also facilitate an environment where authenticity and mutual respect drive collective success. In this way, vulnerability becomes not just a personal strength but a foundational pillar of effective leadership.”

Lan’s email also included a compelling clip from a keynote session given by superyacht captain, Kelly Gordon, at this year’s the Women Leading Travel & Hospitality Summit, in which Captain Gordon shared how a leadership strategy that starts with vulnerability fosters a culture of comfort and open-mindedness among a team. In my experience, I have found that it also fosters a culture of trust…something that seems to be in short supply these days.

So, dare to be vulnerable!

Take it from Brené Brown, "Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness.” 

Thank you, Lan!”