I’m sitting on an airplane, 30,000 feet in the air, reflecting on my journey in leadership – what it means to lead and, more personally, why me? It feels like I’ve been in leadership in some form since I graduated high school, whether it was starting my own small boutique and hiring local students, managing seasonal retail shops or eventually launching an organization.
As the years have passed, I’ve started to shape my definition of leadership into one that centers around servanthood. Why I’ve been chosen for this path, only God truly knows. Titles mean nothing to me; leadership, at its core, is about taking care of your people and remembering to take care of yourself, too. It’s standing up for what’s right. It’s being authentic because, Lord, I can’t imagine how exhausting it would be to pretend to be someone else. It’s walking with integrity, guiding with both your head and your heart and giving grace because we’re all still learning.
Vulnerability: A Misunderstood Strength
Vulnerability is often misunderstood as weakness, especially for women in leadership, where we’re expected to be confident, competent and unshakable. But, I’ve learned that vulnerability is one of the most powerful tools we have for leadership, influence and meaningful connection. When we embrace it, we lead more authentically, connect more deeply and cultivate trust both at work and in friendship.
Redefining Strength in Leadership
Traditional notions of leadership often equate strength with certainty and emotional distance. But, real strength lies in authenticity. Admitting mistakes, asking for support and sharing struggles are not signs of weakness; they’re signs of courage and self awareness.
Vulnerable leaders inspire trust because they remind others that imperfection is human and that collaboration is always stronger than isolation.
I’ll be honest, I’ve often operated at such a high level of excellence that, when I make a mistake, it almost feels like an inhuman experience. But, I’m grateful that my faith grounds me. I remind myself often: Joy, you are not perfect – only God is.
Building Authentic Connections
In women’s friendships, vulnerability is the bridge to genuine connection. When we share our real experiences, our victories, our fears, our frustrations and our hopes, we create a safe space where judgment is replaced by empathy and competition is replaced by encouragement. These friendships become anchors, providing resilience when life or leadership feels overwhelming.
Authentic friendships remind us that we don’t have to lead alone. They hold us accountable, cheer us on and remind us of our humanity when we forget it ourselves.
Vulnerability as a Cultural Shift
When one woman chooses to be vulnerable, it gives others permission to do the same. In organizations, this choice fosters a culture of openness where creativity, collaboration and innovation thrive. Among friends, it builds communities where honesty and empathy are valued over appearances and perfection. Vulnerability invites dialogue, understanding and shared growth.
The Courage to Be Seen
Choosing vulnerability as a female leader or friend is a revolutionary act. It challenges the expectation that women must always be “put together” and shows that true power lies in connection, transparency and authenticity. Leadership is not just about direction; it’s about influence, empathy and courage.
By embracing vulnerability, women can lead with strength and humanity, create friendships that sustain them and cultivate communities that value honesty and trust. In a world obsessed with image, vulnerability cuts through the noise and brings about real, lasting impact.
Practical Ways to Lead with Vulnerability
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “That sounds freeing, but in my line of work, I can’t do that.” I believe you can. Here are a few ways to begin:
- Start small. Vulnerability doesn’t mean sharing everything. Begin by being honest about small challenges or asking for feedback. It shows strength and invites trust.
- Truly listen. Give others the safety to be open without rushing to respond or judge. Vulnerability deepens when it’s met with presence and care. (This is often the hardest part because we’re human, and we almost always have a response!)
- Lead with grace. Extend yourself the same compassion you offer others. Grace fuels growth and keeps us humble and human.
Until next time, enjoy the journey and Be You!
