When I Learned Vulnerability Wasn’t a Dirty Word

Several decades ago, in my first leadership role, being a leader meant having all the answers and never showing weakness. Picture me: a shiny new title, a blazer two sizes too big (thank you, 90s fashion), and a firm belief that admitting I didn’t know something would be like revealing my secret identity.

Then came the project that shattered that illusion. My team was overwhelmed, deadlines loomed, and I had no idea how to fix it. But instead of admitting it, I nodded confidently and overused phrases like, “Let’s circle back on that,” hoping no one would notice my lack of a plan.

Finally, in a meeting where the pressure peaked, I blurted out, “Okay, I’ll admit it—I don’t have all the answers. But I trust us to figure this out together.” I braced myself for shock, disappointment, maybe even a full-blown mutiny. Instead, I got sighs of relief. Someone said, “Thank goodness, we didn’t know what to do either!” And just like that, the tension broke. Ideas started flowing, and together, we solved the problem.

That moment taught me a life-changing truth: vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s a superpower. Being honest about what I didn’t know didn’t undermine my leadership—it strengthened it. My team didn’t need a perfect leader but a human one.

Superhero-Inspired Tips for Leaders Struggling with Vulnerability

Ditch the Cape - You don’t have to save the day solo. Let your team see that even “Super You” needs backup. Admitting you’re not invincible helps others step up and share their strengths.

Use X-Ray Vision for Empathy - Look beneath the surface with your team. Sharing your challenges encourages them to open up about theirs, building trust and connection.

Master the Art of the Reveal - Vulnerability isn’t a soap opera. Start small: admit a mistake or ask for input when you’re stuck. These moments make you relatable without overwhelming your team.

Lead by Example—Not Perfection - Like Batman, you don’t need superpowers to lead. Show your team how to handle uncertainty with confidence and resilience.

Build Your Justice League - Great teams thrive on collaboration, not hierarchy. Invite input and solutions—it’s not about giving up control but finding the best answers together.

Own Your Kryptonite - Acknowledge your weaknesses. By embracing imperfection, you create a culture where growth and authenticity thrive.

Final Thought - No one expects you to be a superhero every day. Sometimes, the real superpower is saying, “I don’t have all the answers, but I’m here to figure it out with you.”

What about you? What’s your leadership superpower, and how has vulnerability helped you unlock it?