In the world of leadership, we’re taught to project confidence — to know all the answers, make quick decisions, and never show weakness. But here’s the thing: vulnerability is one of the most powerful tools a leader can have. It’s not a weakness; it’s a strength. And it’s something that can truly change the game.

Why Vulnerability is Actually a Superpower

Let’s set the record straight. Vulnerability is not about being weak or not having your act together. It’s about being real. When a leader shows that they’re willing to ask questions and learn, that’s when real connection happens. When you open up about your challenges, your mistakes, or your fears, it allows your team to see you as human — not just as the person at the top calling the shots.

Most importantly, it invites others to be real too. When leaders get vulnerable, they show their teams that it’s okay to ask for help, admit when you’re wrong, and take risks. And that’s where trust begins to grow.

A Personal Moment of Vulnerability

Recently, I hosted a panel discussion with employees from various segments of our business. Many were underrepresented due to identity, background, or simply being the “only one” or one of a few in their area. When asked to identify what their “superpower” was — that one thing that helped them succeed — a couple of panelists shared that showing up as their authentic selves was key. They talked about how their lived human experience, when embraced, was a source of strength.

When the question turned back to me, I shared something that, as a leader, can feel a little uncomfortable: while it’s my job to encourage others to bring their whole selves to work, it’s still something I’m actively working on for myself. I’ve gotten better than I once was, but I’m still striving to show up fully — imperfections and all.

The key to vulnerability isn’t just about sharing flaws. It’s about being real about your lived experience — about acknowledging that we all go through things, that we’re all human, and that it’s okay to say, “I felt that too.” When we show up this way, we give others permission to do the same.

As researcher and author Brené Brown puts it, “Vulnerability is the core, the heart, the center, of meaningful human experiences.” It’s in those moments of sharing our truth that we create the most profound connections — with our teams, our communities, and even ourselves.

Vulnerability in Action

Vulnerability looks different for everyone. For some, it’s sharing a personal story. For others, it might be asking for help when you don’t have all the answers or owning up to a mistake. The key is that it has to be real and authentic. No one wants a vulnerability performance — it’s got to come from the heart.

When you’re honest about your own lived experiences, it sets a tone for everyone else to do the same. For example, a leader who admits they don’t know everything creates a culture of collaboration where everyone feels safe to contribute. When someone steps up to say, “I don’t have the answers, but I’m open to figuring it out together,” it shifts the dynamic and creates a space where innovation and creativity can thrive.

And the best part? It’s not just about being open to others. Vulnerability also means recognizing when you need support and asking for it — and that’s not a weakness, it’s strength. Leaders who aren’t afraid to admit that they need support, or who share their struggles, show that it’s okay to lean on others.

Why Authenticity Matters More Than Ever

Let me be clear: vulnerability only works if it’s authentic. You can’t fake it. Leaders who try to be vulnerable for the sake of it — without truly meaning it — can do more harm than good. Authentic vulnerability isn’t about oversharing for sympathy. It’s about being real and showing up as your true self, even when it’s uncomfortable.

The power comes when it’s genuine. When leaders are authentic in their vulnerability, it creates space for others to step into their own authenticity. That’s where the real magic happens — in the connection, the trust, and the growth that follows.

Powerful Leadership Starts With Vulnerability

At the end of the day, vulnerability isn’t a trend — it’s a leadership superpower. It’s about showing up as you are, being honest about where you’re at, and creating space for others to do the same. And in today’s world, that’s the kind of leadership that builds trust, fosters innovation, and creates stronger, more resilient teams.

So, here’s your challenge: The next time you’re in a meeting or conversation, share something real. It could be admitting uncertainty, offering a personal perspective, or simply stating how you feel in the moment. Notice how the conversation shifts, and how it makes you feel.

Because when we lead with vulnerability, we’re not just leading — we’re creating spaces where everyone can love what they do — and who they do it with.