How to Express Vulnerable Thoughts as a Leader – Rolling Stone
How do we make speaking our truth as business leaders? I often ask myself this question. The advocate in my heart wants to speak out, but how does that affect my bottom line or how my co-workers—or my clients—see me? Which is more important: my bottom line, people’s opinions, or standing up for my beliefs? As I lie on my deathbed, what will my soul long for as I cross the threshold?
At this time in our history, I think it’s crucial to stand up for something bigger than ourselves. The world, our future generations, and all life on earth deserve that we show ourselves in service beyond our comfort and those we support.
As I research this investigation, I have found that I am not asking if I should rather separate my personal truth how to express it. Why don’t we see more of this? For example, business leaders apparently hardly spoke about BLM until they faced social pressure when they didn’t speak to him after the killing of George Floyd. I was the only professional I saw on LinkedIn speaking to Roe V. Wade. Are my business colleagues afraid of losing customers, or do people just not know how to express their values in an authentic and vulnerable way and invite conversation?
When we speak up, it’s crucial to find a middle ground, not to move on against each other, so that we can progress even when we disagree. We need to find a pillar for everyone to lean on to begin. And what better way than to be that pillar of love while practicing the principle of vulnerability and trusting that the person or client in front of you knows where you’re from.
Even if their views differ, people can be grateful for your approach and hopefully start a productive conversation. What beautiful lessons and opportunities for growth we all have.
So the question is how – not if – you should speak your authentic truth. Here are six pointers to guide you to express your truth and find space for understanding:
1. Come from a place of kindness
Be kind with your message. Getting in front of people who disagree with your views could potentially affect your business, but regardless, it’s always the way to go, so be kind. They may actually find respect for how you stand by your truth.
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2. Respect the sovereignty of others
We are all individuals – our own beings – shaped by our unique experiences, environments and families. We are all different and we will never be like the person next to us. Therefore, respecting the sovereignty of others is crucial. Who are we to decide that our path is the right one? It’s actually up to other people to decide for themselves, and that makes it okay if someone disagrees with you. Don’t push people, invite them and let them listen.
3. Get creative
Be creative with your brilliance, especially when you share a point of view with people that they may not agree with. Art has historically been used to open people up to ideologies and this offers us a way of conveying a message and allowing the viewer to embrace it. The more creative you become, the more chance there is of that light coming on in your head, but from your own understanding – and not from someone telling you.
4. Be wary of certainties
If you speak absolutely, you will lose people. Terms like “invitation,” “my faith,” and “if you feel called” can go a long way in giving people options and not forcing them into your beliefs. If they don’t want to be guided, let them and maybe they’ll find their way back to you.
5. Show forgiveness
We must be able to forgive because we are all human and make mistakes. That doesn’t mean there aren’t repercussions for these mistakes, but showing forgiveness can inspire someone to learn and grow to get better.
6. Listen
This is perhaps the most important clue and one that I feel is the least present in our current societal climate. Keep listening and don’t be put off by other people’s views. If you desire that listening from others, find it within yourself first. The world’s greatest communicators are phenomenal listeners. Don’t let other views discourage you as you could miss an opportunity for growth.
Ultimately, if you follow these six pointers, people will respect you, your work, and the company you represent, even if they don’t agree with you. Many pillars are presented to find a middle ground for progressive conversations. People value vulnerability and the world could use more of it; this is recognized and appreciated. And the people who agree with you could be more dedicated to your work.
But more importantly, these six pointers, if used when speaking your truth, whether in a professional or personal context, could lead to a better world for our grandchildren. I am confident that this will bring peace to each of our spirits as we face our own deathbed, knowing that we have done what we could to leave this world a better place.