The Courage to Lead: Why Vulnerability is Your Greatest Strength in Leadership

When we think of leadership, the words “strong,” “decisive,” and “confident” often come to mind. But there’s another quality—often overlooked—that sets the most impactful leaders apart: vulnerability.

Vulnerability isn’t weakness. It’s courage in action. It’s being willing to show up as your full, imperfect self, even when it feels risky. And in leadership, vulnerability is what fosters trust, creates connection, and drives authentic relationships.

My Journey to Vulnerability in Leadership

For years, I believed I had to have all the answers, wear a polished mask, and keep my struggles hidden. As a woman in leadership, the pressure to prove myself felt overwhelming at times. But the harder I tried to appear perfect, the more disconnected I felt—from myself and from those I wanted to lead.

Everything changed when I started to lean into vulnerability. I began sharing my story—the triumphs, yes, but also the challenges and moments of doubt. And what I found was something remarkable: people didn’t see me as weaker; they saw me as more human.

Vulnerability doesn’t diminish leadership—it amplifies it. It creates space for trust and collaboration, turning teams into communities and audiences into allies.

Why Vulnerability is a Leadership Superpower

1. It Builds Deeper Connections When you’re vulnerable, you invite others to do the same. Sharing your struggles or uncertainties can create a ripple effect, encouraging your team or community to feel safe being open and honest.
2. It Fosters Trust People trust what is real. When you let go of the fa?ade of perfection, you demonstrate authenticity, making it easier for others to trust and respect you.
3. It Inspires Resilience Showing vulnerability isn’t about dwelling on struggles; it’s about owning them and showing how you rise. It’s a powerful reminder that setbacks are part of the journey, not the end of it.
4. It Creates Space for Growth Vulnerability and allows you to admit when you don’t have all the answers, inviting collaboration and fresh perspectives. It turns “I don’t know” into an opportunity for collective problem-solving.

Practical Ways to Lead with Vulnerability

1. Start Small: Share a story about a time you overcame a challenge. Let your team see the person behind the title.
2. Ask for Feedback: Acknowledge that you’re not perfect and invite constructive input. It shows humility and a commitment to growth.
3. Admit Mistakes: Instead of covering up errors, own them. It demonstrates accountability and encourages others to learn from their missteps too.
4. Celebrate Imperfection: Lead by example in embracing imperfection. Remind your team that growth often comes from the moments when things don’t go as planned.

Redefining Strength

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about creating space for others to step into their power. It’s about showing up, even when you feel uncertain, and letting others see that it’s okay to do the same.

When we lead with vulnerability, we create a culture of trust, resilience, and authenticity. And in a world that’s hungry for real connections, that kind of leadership is exactly what we need.

Take Action

To all the leaders reading this: I challenge you to lean into vulnerability. Share your story, own your imperfections, and let others see the human behind the leader.

Because when we embrace vulnerability, we inspire others to do the same—and that’s how real change begins.

Join my brand new program ‘UNAPOLOGETIC’ to unlock the power of your voice, your thought leadership and influence.