Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Admit Your Vulnerability

Jim Hulling, CEO of MATRIX Resources, had a great article in Smart Business Magazine (SF Edition) last month called "Strength in Vulnerability". His inspiring words ring true in my ears as I write this post.

In the business world many believe they should only show confidence. No matter the situation, professionals fear letting anyone view them as anything but in total control. Asking for help, they interpret, is a sign of weakness.

However, nobody is bullet proof all the time. To pretend that you have it together will only mask the problem. To overcome the obstacles in your path, turn to your network of personal and professional contacts. Where you are weak, others are strong. A mountain to you can be a bump to another.

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it" - Nelson Mandela

Winston Churchill said, "If you are going through hell, keep going!" This is the only way to overcome your fears. To stop and pretend that you are in control is not a solution, yet to keep going you may need others to show you the way.

I suggest you turn to your close circle of friends and admit that you are vulnerable. They will not view you as a failure, but instead will provide you with new insights and fresh points of view.

Think of it this way, what if someone in your network approached you to assist them with a problem. Would you lend a hand, or look down on them with contempt (if you picked the latter, you are just a jerk). Most would cherish the chance to help a friend. They will embrace being someone whom you admire enough to seek out in times of need.

Your vulnerability will enable you to make a deeper connection with those in your network. You will find that you will have more respect from those around you when they know you are a real person, and not some plastic mannequin. Embrace where you are vulnerable and learn. You will become a stronger person for the experience.

Have A Great Day.

thom
www.thomsinger.com

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