Byron's Babbles

In one of my Focused Leader Academy gatherings this past week we got into a deep discussion about being vulnerable and authenticity. These are two really important and many times overlooked leadership attributes. I am so fortunate to have had this modeled for me very early in my career as a teacher and teacher leader. I have also worked in organizations where these two attributes were not valued. Let me tell you, it is not healthy to be in an environment where asking for help or needing more information is viewed as a weakness. Asking questions is a superpower we possess. Remember, we need to create space for vulnerability in order to have a psychologically safe environment.

“Vulnerability is the birthplace of connection and the path to the feeling of worthiness. If it doesn’t feel vulnerable, the sharing is probably not constructive.” ~ Brené Brown

In our discussion we also talked about that in order to encourage vulnerability and authenticity we need to help those on our team be seen. Helping those on our team be seen means recognizing and appreciating their contributions, strengths, and efforts. It involves giving them acknowledgment, validation, and opportunities to showcase their skills. When we ensure team members feel valued and visible, it boosts morale, encourages collaboration, and fosters a positive environment where everyone feels motivated and respected. Essentially, it’s about amplifying their voices and successes so they feel recognized and empowered within the team.

An important concept here is that as leaders we need to see and understand others’ strengths and weaknesses and let them see us. I am a huge believer in understanding our strengths building on those. As a leader, understanding our team members’ strengths and weaknesses is crucial because it allows us to effectively support their growth, assign tasks that align with their abilities, and foster a productive and positive work environment. Recognizing their strengths enables is to leverage their talents for the team’s success, while understanding their weaknesses helps in providing targeted development or assistance.

Moreover, when we openly share our own strengths and areas for improvement, it builds trust and transparency within the team. It encourages honest communication, reduces barriers, and creates a culture where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and feedback. This mutual understanding and openness ultimately lead to higher engagement, collaboration, and overall success.