The Power Of Vulnerability In Leadership

Forbes

03-07-2025

Vulnerability makes for stronger and more authentic leadership.
You're a leader. You want people to follow you, be inspired by you, to have faith that you will do the right thing. So you don't dare show your soft side. Or do you? I believe openness actually makes for stronger and more authentic leadership. When you are honest and open with those who work with and for you, something powerful happens.
You inspire trust.
What About the Rest of Us?
Over the years, I devoured business and self-help books, looking for practical tips as well as soul nourishment. At that time, many of the most popular books were written from male points of view, and they often overlooked the unique challenges faced by women, especially those who choose motherhood later in their careers when they have already established themselves professionally. Nor did these books address the intersection of mental health and leadership, a topic with which I have first-hand experience. What about what my friends and I are juggling? I asked myself. What about the rest of us?
When I wrote my own book, Changemakers Wanted: Your Blueprint for Lasting Impact and Ethical Change, I set out to examine what it truly means to lead while managing mental health challenges, drawing from my personal experiences and ongoing work with therapists. I wanted to offer practical guidance and encouragement for those facing anxiety or burnout in demanding roles.
I also included a section on setting boundaries, especially around sharing personal stories and experiences—because it was the kind of support I needed but could not find when I was starting my company. My goal was to provide not only inspiration, but also real-world language and actionable tools readers can use to advocate for their own needs in both personal and professional settings.
Vulnerability Is A Strength
I understand why many leaders hesitate to reveal their vulnerable side. There is a real fear that others might lose trust in them or, worse, use that openness against them. Above all, there is a concern that vulnerability will be mistaken for weakness. I have wrestled with these same questions, both in conversation with colleagues and in the quiet moments alone. It is undeniably difficult to be vulnerable, to expose the deeper, more human parts of yourself, and simply hope to be accepted. Ironically, it is precisely this willingness to be open that builds genuine trust and demonstrates true emotional strength.
Vulnerability means acknowledging your mistakes and asking for input. Some of our greatest leaders have failed before they succeeded. They have struggled to balance work and home. They are not perfect; they are just like us.
More Energy. When you are open, you no longer have to hide behind a manufactured image of what a leader should be. Instead, you can direct your energy toward being your authentic self. Authenticity paves the way for greater clarity and genuine belonging.
Connection. When you are a person first and a leader second, others will feel more comfortable confiding in you.
Strength. By knowing where your weaknesses lie, you can focus on your strengths and actively improve, rather than simply covering up areas that need attention.
Inspiration. When you are brave enough to show up as your authentic self, you inspire others to do the same. Just imagine the kind of world this could spark.
To truly distinguish yourself, especially as a leader and Changemaker, it is essential to not only experience vulnerability but also to discuss it openly with others. By welcoming honest dialogue during times of discomfort, we dismantle the shame so often intertwined with fear and doubt. I learned this lesson early in my career while coping with anxiety associated with flying, a necessity for my job. I found that simply acknowledging my feelings by saying, 'I am feeling a bit overwhelmed at the moment,' allowed me to release the resistance against those negative emotions. That vulnerable statement shifted my focus from the fear itself to creating a genuine human connection with those around me. I know I am a better leader because I chose to embrace and expose my vulnerability.
Vulnerable Leaders Are Authentic Leaders
In a world that prizes stoicism in leadership, vulnerability is often overlooked. However, studies show that authentic leaders build stronger teams and positively impact the well-being of others. Vulnerability is not a weakness—it might just be a leader's superpower. When you choose openness, you build trust, inspire courage, and invite real connection. Lead bravely. The world needs leaders like us.