Bandung, 29th January 2025 — Have you ever been told that leaders must always be stoic and unshaken? That “leaders don’t cry” because it shows weakness? Well, let’s flip that outdated narrative: leaders do cry, and that’s exactly what makes them strong. In fact, embracing vulnerability is the secret to authentic leadership. Curious to know why? Let’s dive into how shedding a tear doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human, relatable, and an even more powerful leader.
Why Leaders Cry: Busting the Myths
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1. Vulnerability Is Not the Same as Weakness
Crying is often misinterpreted as fragility, but in reality, it takes immense courage to be vulnerable. When leaders allow themselves to express genuine emotions, they foster trust and openness within their teams. Vulnerability isn’t about breaking down—it’s about showing your humanity and resilience.
2. Crying Is Not Exclusively Positive or Negative
Tears can symbolize joy, frustration, or even relief. They are not inherently good or bad—they’re simply expressions of deeply felt emotions. By acknowledging this, leaders can destigmatize emotional expression and create a workplace culture where emotions are welcomed, not shunned.
3. Authenticity Builds Connection
Showing vulnerability makes you relatable. When leaders drop the “perfect” facade and show their human side, they inspire loyalty and empathy. A leader who can admit struggles is one who truly understands their team’s challenges.
A Quick Guide to Leading with Vulnerability
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Here are some ways you can lead authentically while embracing your emotions:
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions
Take time to check in with yourself and figure out what you’re feeling. It could be stress, excitement, frustration, or even joy. Sometimes, it’s hard to process emotions when things get busy. However, practicing mindfulness or journaling can help you pause, reflect, and understand your feelings without judgment. Acknowledging what you’re going through helps you act with clarity and prevents emotions from controlling your decisions. It also helps you communicate more effectively with your team because you’re more aware of your emotional state.
2. Communicate Openly
As a leader, it’s important to let your team know when you’re struggling. This doesn’t mean sharing everything, but it’s about being honest and open in a way that encourages trust and teamwork. For example, if you’re feeling overwhelmed with a project, say something like, “I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the tasks, but I’m committed to working through this with you all.” This shows vulnerability, but it also invites collaboration. When you communicate openly, it helps build a stronger connection with your team. They will feel more comfortable being open with you, knowing that you understand the importance of being real and transparent.
3. Celebrate Emotional Moments
Emotions are a part of every journey, whether you’re achieving success or facing setbacks. Don’t shy away from celebrating moments of joy, and don’t hide when things get tough. Allow yourself and your team to express emotions freely. For instance, when you reach a significant milestone, take a moment to celebrate, whether it’s a big win or a small victory. On the flip side, if you face a setback, it’s okay to feel disappointed or frustrated. Acknowledging these emotions, both positive and negative, helps create a space where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves. It also builds empathy and a sense of unity, showing that you’re all in it together.
A Story That Hits Home: Yonan’s Leadership Journey
Yonan, a young leader, once thought crying was a sign of failure. During a tough project, she broke down in front of her team after weeks of holding in stress. Instead of losing respect, her team came together to support her. That experience changed how she led. By showing vulnerability, she earned her team’s trust and built a stronger, more understanding group.
What About You?
Have you ever cried as a leader? How did it impact your team? Share your story in the comments—your experience might inspire someone else!
Lead with Strength, Tears and All
So, why not embrace the power of vulnerability? True leadership isn’t about appearing invincible—it’s about being real, relatable, and resilient. Whether it’s sharing struggles, celebrating wins, or simply allowing yourself to feel, leaders who cry can inspire in ways that “unshakable” leaders cannot.
Take the first step today. Let’s cry, lead, and grow together!
(agl/wlm)
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