The mythical invincible leader
We've been fed a lie. The myth of the invincible leader, always confident, never faltering. It's time to shatter this illusion.
True strength in leadership doesn't come from pretending to be flawless. It comes from embracing your flaws, from having the courage to be vulnerable.
Vulnerability in leadership isn't weakness. It's the ultimate display of authenticity and courage. It's admitting when you're unsure, acknowledging your mistakes, and showing your human side.
When you open up about your struggles, you create space for others to do the same. You build a culture of trust and openness. You encourage innovation by making it safe to take risks and fail.
But vulnerability is scary. It feels like you're exposing yourself to attack, like you're undermining your own authority. The truth? It does the opposite.
Showing vulnerability makes you relatable. It bridges the gap between you and your team. It transforms you from an unapproachable figure on a pedestal to a real person they can connect with and support.
This doesn't mean oversharing or being emotionally careless. It means being strategic about showing your human side. It means using your experiences - good and bad - to guide and inspire others.
The next time you face a challenge, resist the urge to put on a brave face. Instead, share your concerns. Ask for help. Let your team see that you're human too.
Watch as walls come down. See how problems get solved faster when everyone feels safe to contribute. Feel the strength that comes from leading with your whole self, imperfections and all.