The Strength in Vulnerability: A Realist's Guide to Entrepreneurial Well-being
Four Ways to Embrace Vulnerability Without Losing Credibility
In the relentless world of entrepreneurship, there’s an unspoken rule: never let them see you sweat.
Show weakness, and you risk losing the confidence of investors, employees, and sometimes even yourself. But what if we flipped that script? What if vulnerability could be a tool to strengthen, not undermine, your leadership?
The Feedback That Made Me Pause
Not too long ago, I received some anonymous feedback from someone in my team. They described my openness about certain struggles as “weakness.” At first, it stung. A lot. I really pride myself on being a grounded, transparent leader and human, and here was someone questioning whether my approach undermined their confidence in me.
But later on as I reflected on the feedback, I realised that it revealed something deeper. Vulnerability is uncomfortable. Not just for the person expressing it, but also for those witnessing it. For some, seeing a leader admit struggle can challenge long-held notions of strength.
This feedback didn’t make me question the value of openness. Instead, it made me refine how I approach it. Vulnerability isn’t about dumping every worry or fear; it’s about honest, purposeful communication that serves the team and yourself.
Why Vulnerability is a Strength, Not a Weakness
First of all, let’s dismantle a common myth: vulnerability doesn’t mean losing control or credibility. In fact, it can be a critical leadership tool.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that psychological safety, a culture where people feel safe to take risks, voice opinions, and be themselves, positively impacts team performance. Leaders who demonstrate vulnerability create this safety by modelling openness and fostering trust. (Frontiers in Psychology, 2020)
Similarly, Brené Brown, a researcher renowned for her work on vulnerability, emphasizes that vulnerability is the birthplace of trust, innovation, and resilience. Her findings suggest that the very thing many of us are afraid to show, our humanness, is what builds the deepest connections in teams. (CultureAmp)
So, vulnerability isn’t about saying, “I don’t know what I’m doing.” It’s about saying, “Here’s a challenge we’re facing, and here’s how I’m addressing it.” This balance can transform how your team perceives you and how they operate.
Four Ways to Embrace Vulnerability Without Losing Credibility
Be Strategic About What You Share
Vulnerability isn’t about sharing everything; it’s about sharing what’s relevant. If you’re dealing with a tough decision, frame it in a way that connects with the team’s goals. For example: “This quarter’s numbers are challenging, but here’s how we’re tackling it.”Balance Transparency with Resilience
Vulnerability should never leave people feeling adrift. Pair openness with solutions. Instead of just saying, “This is hard,” add, “Here’s what we’re trying, and here’s how you can help.”Lead by Example
By being open yourself, you create a safe space for others to do the same. For instance, if an employee is struggling with burnout, sharing your own experience with setting boundaries can make them feel less isolated.Set Clear Boundaries
While openness is valuable, oversharing can erode trust. Choose moments of vulnerability that reinforce your role as a steady, solutions-oriented leader.
The Science of Trust and Vulnerability
Research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology highlights that trust in leaders often stems from their willingness to accept vulnerability. This trust enables teams to collaborate more effectively and feel empowered to take risks without fear of judgment. (Journal of Applied Psychology)
Moreover, when leaders embrace vulnerability, they cultivate a culture where everyone can bring their full selves to work. This not only builds stronger connections but also enhances overall performance.
The Cultural Shift We Need
Here’s the reality: the expectation that leaders must be invincible is outdated and counterproductive. A culture where vulnerability is welcomed, when managed thoughtfully, builds stronger connections, trust, and collaboration. And it starts at the top.
As an entrepreneur, you don’t need to have all the answers. What you need is the courage to admit when you don’t and the determination to figure it out. By embracing vulnerability, we’re not only helping ourselves—we’re setting the tone for a healthier, more resilient team culture.