Stand Tall & Own It - Empowering Purpose-Driven Women to Lead with Authenticity and Impact

How to Be Vulnerable & Authentic as a Leader

Andrea Johnson

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!

How Great Leaders Use Vulnerability to Inspire Trust and Drive Results  Learn how vulnerability can be your secret weapon for building stronger teams and achieving leadership success.

1 BIG Idea:
Vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s a powerful leadership tool that helps you build trust, inspire loyalty, and drive results. By embracing vulnerability, you can show your team that you’re human, create an environment of psychological safety, and unlock new levels of innovation and collaboration.

3 Ways to Apply This:

  1. Share Your Story: Use personal experiences to show how your past challenges have shaped your leadership. Frame your failures as learning moments to encourage growth in others.
  2. Lead with Curiosity: Embrace uncertainty and ask for input. A vulnerable leader models resilience and a growth mindset, which motivates their team to take risks and innovate.
  3. Set Boundaries: Share selectively, ensuring your vulnerability aligns with your leadership goals. Protect your authority by balancing openness with discretion.

3 Questions to Ask Yourself:

  1. Where in your leadership style could you benefit from being more vulnerable?
  2. How can you use vulnerability to create stronger connections with your team?
  3. What boundaries can you set to ensure your vulnerability doesn’t undermine your credibility?

Resources & Next Steps:

  • Join the Core Values Coaching Program (Beta): Get personalized support in aligning your leadership with your Core Values. (Limited spots available!)
  • Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. 
  • Free Core Values Exercise – Start identifying what truly drives your leadership.
  • Let’s continue the conversation! DM me on Instagram or LinkedIn @theintentionaloptimist or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com

Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1v0P9otOpGs 

For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com

Please leave us a rating and review!

Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.

Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 

Skillshare: Spark your creativity.
Get 40% Off Annual Membership

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

People on this episode