“A leader, first and foremost, is human. Only when we have the strength to show our vulnerability can we truly lead.”

Simon Sinek

It seems in today’s world, many people still believe they need to be perfect.  We have this thought that we have to present ourselves, particularly as leaders, to be all knowing and all powerful.  That we are problem free.  Many of us wear a mask or hide behind a curtain of perfection. Kinda like the Wizard, yes?

From personal experience, I can tell you, that is a recipe for a potentially unhappy life.

Getting Real
What our team wants to see from us, what our family and friends want to see from us, is vulnerability.  They want to know we are human, just like them.  They want to know that yes, we are here to lead them, to show up for them, but that we too have struggles, and because of those struggles, we actually become better leaders.  Because we have learned to show up even when things get tough.

My Story
A little over 5 years ago, I was in a very dark place in my life.  So dark in fact that I chose to face my demons and get treatment for depression and anxiety.  While I was in treatment, I learned the meaning behind “perfectly imperfect”.  For workaholics and perfectionists like I used to be, this was a concept I had to really wrap my mind around, for me, it was a matter of life and death.

That experience not only made me a better person, it made me a better leader.  Because I realized that in order to be the best for others, for my team, my family and my friends, I had to get over the notion that I had to be perfect.  Do I still have struggles?  Yes, everyday, believe it or not.  But I did the work and found the tools I needed to show up for my life and for others.

The World Has Your Back
If you are like I was, feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, my hope for you is that you realize the world has your back.  That you are human, and its OK to be vulnerable.  It’s actually that vulnerability, that perfectly imperfect you that can help you develop more meaningful relationships and makes you a better leader. How awesome is that?

(shared with LOVE from your passionista Nina)

PS: If this post resonates with you and you need someone to talk to, I am here for you.  You can click here to email me, or call me at 310-503-1342.