Creating Trusting Environments: Unapologetic Transformations
This is a continued conversation from 12/15. If you missed the previous pillars, we would encourage you to go back and follow along for our full content on this discussion!
#7) Demonstrate Vulnerability
Demonstrating vulnerability in the workplace is not only a display of authenticity but also a catalyst for fostering psychological safety and cultivating trust among team members. By normalizing imperfection and acknowledging mistakes as natural aspects of professional growth, leaders create an environment where individuals feel comfortable admitting their own shortcomings without fear of judgment. This openness paves the way for greater collaboration, innovation, and risk-taking within the team, as team members are empowered to share ideas and voice concerns without hesitation. Moreover, embracing vulnerability is integral to personal development, as it allows individuals to confront areas for improvement and seek opportunities for learning and growth.
With that said, let us ask the million-dollar question… When is the last time you owned up to a mistake you made in the workplace?
Allowing others to see our imperfections and where we have space to grow not only gives room for those on our teams to see psychological safety being modeled in real time, but also elevates YOUR own mental health by releasing any shame and guilt you are carrying from a situation. Leaders who openly acknowledge their mistakes and challenges demonstrate humility and authenticity, earning the trust and respect of their team members in the process. There’s also an immediate benefit felt internally for the leader as well. Expressing vulnerability promotes self-compassion and mental well-being by releasing the burden of shame and guilt associated with mistakes, enabling individuals to move forward with resilience and confidence in their professional endeavors.
Seeking support and guidance from trusted mentors or role models can further reinforce the value of vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. If you’re struggling with this one, consider asking someone you deem as a valued influencer in your life to detail the 3 biggest mistakes they made in their career. As they share the lessons they’ve learned, sit back and be ready to surrender to what we’ve always known – everyone makes mistakes. The level of respect your team has for you will only increase with your ability to be vulnerable with them.
In conclusion, by embracing vulnerability, starting with themselves, leaders not only elevate their own mental health but also create a workplace culture characterized by trust, respect, and continual growth.
Here's Where Unapologetic Can Elevate Your Results:
For some, the topic of vulnerability promotes a very real (and sometimes debilitating) condition called Imposter Syndrome, which includes feelings of anxiousness despite being high performing in external, objective ways. Because of its prevalence in the workplace today, specifically in women professionals, Unapologetic has expanded our workshop offerings to include Shattering Imposter Syndrome. Click on Contact Us to hear more.
Executive Coaching Sessions are a great way to tackle and challenge barriers that may surface when working on demonstrating your vulnerability.
Team-Building activities rooted in situations unrelated to your profession allow everyone to be on the same playing field and can open great lines of communication, trust, and relationship building. Let Unapologetic be involved from the inception to ensure success.
