Vulnerability

I recently heard that vulnerability is the key to success. But what about vulnerability in the workplace. What thoughts come to mind? How does that make you feel?
To me, Vulnerability is all about being open, feeling what you feel and letting other people see you for what and who you are in the moment.
I agree that it is easier said than done when it comes to being unrestricted and honest about your feelings, ideas, strengths, and weaknesses. I like to think I am like an open book. Ask me a question, and I will give you a truthful answer. While being honest is great, not everyone truly wants honesty. (And I will admit that I need to work on my delivery and timing, as well as my acceptance of honest feedback).
Being vulnerable in a workplace setting can be challenging. These are people that you simultaneously know and don’t know. I’m sure that we have all come up with ideas or have developed plans in our heads that seem AMAZING. We are so proud of our concept, and we can’t wait to share it with others because we essentially just solved everyone’s problem. Then you get to that meeting, and you say “Eureka, blah blah blah” to which your co-worker follows up with an “Um, nah.” It is devastating. How do you handle that? Do you try to restate your idea and provide your evidence for why it is a bomb ass idea, or do you shut down? Do you ask your co-worker for feedback on the subject, do you listen to the feedback, and explore a new path?
I don’t often share my ideas, because I’m terrified to be told they suck and I often (100%) internalize that shit. I can be honest with others all day long about their thoughts. I try to do this with a positive inflection, so others don’t internalize it. I’ve gotten a bit better over the years. Talking with my besties, or a coworker (who has a feedback delivery method that I can handle) at least helps me clean up my rough draft before I present it the masses (or the 12 other people in my department). I recently joined a new team at work, and I can’t say that I have any grand ideas yet. I am challenging myself that in this new work space, I will be vulnerable, I will take thoughtful risks, and I will also take feedback and work through it/implement it. And if anyone is reading this – I challenge you to take thoughtful risks and be vulnerable and see if you are able to grow.
Be vulnerable my friends.