Part 1: The Difficulty of Vulnerability Among Highly Successful Professionals

On the surface, leadership and vulnerability don’t seem to go hand in hand. Leaders are often viewed as strong and immovable, and the stereotype is that they don’t crack under pressure or show emotions that could cause them to be seen as “weak.” Unfortunately, those stereotypes and tropes have caused more harm than good over the years. So much so that it’s often difficult for highly successful professionals to be vulnerable.

What’s the problem with that? For starters, it can cause a lot of personal mental health struggles, but it can also make your leadership skills weaker than they could be. Let’s take a closer look at why vulnerability is so difficult for highly successful professionals, why that could be a problem, and what you can do about it. 

The Stereotypes of Vulnerability

Highly successful people, including lawyers, doctors, politicians, and businesspeople, have been stereotyped for years. If you’re in a professional position, you’ve probably received countless pieces of advice throughout your career regarding climbing the corporate ladder or finding success. More than likely, none of that advice has included opening up, showing emotion, or being yourself.

These stereotypes have made people in these roles believe they will be thought less of if they show any vulnerability. After all, no one wants their lawyer to look weak in court or a doctor that doesn’t seem confident in their skills, right? However, those are inaccurate ideas of what vulnerability really is. The more you understand the true purpose of vulnerability, the easier it is to see why it’s so important.

Why Vulnerability Matters

Instead of making you look weak, showing vulnerability in your career can actually be a fantastic leadership skill that will bring you greater success. What can you gain by being vulnerable? For starters, it makes you relatable. Others are more likely to be comfortable around you when they feel like you’re “real” and not above them somehow. They’ll open up to you, and you can dig deeper into their needs and wants. That builds trust in the workplace, which can create a more positive, productive environment. 

Vulnerability also promotes courage. When you’re willing to be yourself and open up, you’re also willing to be seen no matter the circumstances. That can spark courage in others and boost their creativity. Whether you’re in a leadership role or you’re trying to work with clients who lack confidence and comfort, being open and vulnerable around others will make it easier for them to offer vulnerability in return. 

Finally, vulnerability can help you foster meaningful connections. No matter which industry you’re in, relationships matter. They’ll help you continue upward on that corporate ladder without stepping on any toes, and you’ll have a more meaningful career when you think about the people who surround you each day. 

How to Be More Vulnerable

So, what can you do to break through those stereotypes and be a more vulnerable professional? Start with simple things. Admit when you’re wrong about something or when you’re struggling with a project. Admit your mistakes, and tell someone when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Your honesty doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human. It can also make you happier in your personal life. 

If you’re having trouble breaking down those barriers, you’re not alone. However, by holding everything in and trying to show constant strength without vulnerability, you could be harming your mental well-being. Feel free to contact us if you’re struggling to open up. Counseling For Professionals can help you work on being more vulnerable in your personal and professional lives and how doing so can benefit you more than you ever thought possible.