Post 1 in The Series: What Do Vulnerable Leaders Do Differently?

Vulnerable Leaders Make Decisions in the Open

Vulnerable leaders make hard decisions in the company and collaboration with others.  They use their organization's beliefs and mission as their North Star.  Even though the decisions being made may challenge their thinking, make them uncomfortable, and a little fearful, they recognize this is how organizations grow.  

Vulnerable leaders model courage and humility in their collaborative decision making and willingness to step out of their comfort zones for the betterment of the team and company.  When the armor of fear and defense creeps up, they are skilled in self- awareness and bravely push away the urge to self-preserve.  

When the world of education went into panic mode as a result of Covid-19, vulnerable leaders resisted the urge to shut their doors and attempt to make decisions in isolation and pass them down upon the people.  They refrained from allowing the teams they serve to get lost in wishing for what was and “normalcy.”  Instead they inspired their team to focus on what could be, what could a new normal look like, and the lessons that can be learned if we are willing to sit bravely in the uncertain and uncomfortable.  Two years later, these same vulnerable leaders are not falling prey to the narrative of ‘filling Covid gaps' by returning to what was, has been, and doing more of the same.  Rather, they are celebrating the risk takers and innovators who do not desire to return to the normal, but instead to create a different future. 

When instructional changes are required to bring the organization’s mission to life, vulnerable leaders refrain from placing blame and responsibility for the required shifts on those around or above them.  Instead they craft a plan and vision on ways to hook the hearts of those they serve around the shift.  They get very clear on their own beliefs around the change.  They become lead learners modeling willingness and passion for their own needed learning to support the instructional shift.  They refrain from hiding in their offices as change is heralded.  They are the most present, transparent, and vulnerable when the organization is taking on great change.  They smile and laugh often because great joy is found when we are not standing still. 

Vulnerable Leaders use collaborative decision making to move organizations forward, optimize talent, and grow culture.  Vulnerable leaders lead with open doors, open hearts, and a honest, brave smile.