Vulnerable leaders
An office administrator decided it would be a great idea to have a weekly morning tea for the staff. At the first gathering, the CEO welcomed everyone, told them it was a wonderful idea, but he wouldn’t be participating in future events. He shared his social anxiety condition and that these large gatherings were extremely difficult for him. After his short speech, he departed, leaving the team to enjoy their time together.
This CEO, instead of pretending and grinding out thirty minutes of excruciating social banter and connection, chose to be vulnerable in front of his people.
The word vulnerable means to wound.
This CEO, in sharing his personal condition, was in many ways, opening himself to being wounded: What will they think of me? Will they all talk about me behind my back? Will this affect my credibility?…
The rose (pictured) from my garden, reminded me of the CEO.
Initially, this rose was firmly closed with a small amount of fragrance, but as it opened, the scent expanded commensurately.
Leaders who exercise vulnerability (within boundaries, of course) may experience a heightened sense of exposure and fear of being wounded in the process. But this has its own healing properties along with exuding a greater leadership effectiveness in team life.
As we open up to others, we become more whole in the process, along with being the fragrance of life to others.
Happy Easter!
Ray
Part of my coaching work is about helping good leaders traverse the tougher times. If you or one of your team could do with some help, feel free to connect.
Rayism of the week: Vulnerability is the delicate process of opening ourselves up to be seen for who we truly are. Scary but impactful.
ray@rayhodge.com.au; www.rayhodge.com.au; +61 403 341 105
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