Powerful & Vulnerable

I read a quote that says "you can be vulnerable, open, honest, and remain powerful simultaneously."

We are raised in this world to view life in either/or categories. You're left-handed or right-handed. You like pickles or you don't. You're athletic or you're not. You're a democrat or a republican.

This either/or world segregates us. It delineates what is right or wrong. In certain situations, it makes you part of the "in" crowd, or not.

What if, instead of looking how to pin us against one another, we sought commonalities? What if we lived in a world of both/and, not either or?

Early in my career, I cried at work. I wasn't chosen for a position for which I applied. I was told, "never cry at work." I think the person who said this to me intended well, but instead it left an imprint on me. Why would crying at work be so bad? Sure, uncontrollably crying can be a distraction, but why would crying as a result of disappointment be a negative thing?

Several years ago, a worship leader joined our church. He was the king of "both/and". He would reference it so much that it became something I lived by. Could it be that we as a business could be competitive AND compassionate? Could it be that a supervisor could be both empathetic AND disciplinarian? Could I be both vulnerable AND powerful?

Absolutely.

This both/and environment leaves room for everyone at the table. It isn't divisive. It leaves space for perspectives unlike your own. It allows for the intricate workings of the human mind and the simple longings of the heart.

As long as I have had the opportunity to lead people, I've wanted to be known for the both/and. I've wanted to coach to the both/and. I've wanted to see the both/and in company leadership and I've wanted to live out the both/and in the character of who I am.

Since that day when I didn't get the job and I cried, I've cried several other times. What I find in that vulnerability is connection. That connection brings power to listen and to influence. I'm so thankful for this lesson and the many who help shape us along the way.