Workplace Vulnerability

Let's face it, running a company isn't just hustling to achieve goals and celebrating wins (although, we do believe in the power of a long, celebratory lunch). This week, my reality check came in the form of a call from a coworker, one of our absolute rockstars. Anxiety was crackling on the other end of the line, and a particularly challenging client situation had her feeling overwhelmed.

Bosses of yore might have brushed it off with a "suck it up, buttercup" mentality. But those Mad Men days are over (thank goodness for progress!). The truth is, it took guts to be vulnerable and open up about her struggles. And she’s never given me any reason to doubt her.

Here's the thing: vulnerability isn't weakness. It's actually a superpower. When someone shares their doubts and frustrations, doesn't it create a deeper connection? In this case, her honesty allowed us to ditch the "one-woman show" act. We brainstormed solutions together, lightened her load, and—perhaps most importantly—we built a bridge of trust stronger than any fancy team-building retreat.

This experience was a powerful reminder: creating a safe space for vulnerability within your team isn't some touchy-feely jargon. It's about fostering an environment where people feel comfortable saying "I need help," or "I'm feeling lost." Remember Brene Brown's "courage to be imperfect"? Yeah, we're going there.

When members of our team open up, the best thing we can do is listen. We’ve all earned the benefit of the doubt; if someone tells you there’s a problem, then there’s a problem. Offer support, and remember: vulnerability isn't a weakness, it's the foundation for a stronger, more connected team. And that, my friends, is a recipe for a thriving company culture (and maybe a celebratory team lunch – because sometimes, all you really need is pizza and good company).