Imagine two leaders starting their week at your workplace. One, with an elite degree and inflated ego, uses corporate jargon and over-prepared answers. The other, equally qualified, speaks plainly and begins by asking about team challenges, openly admitting when they lack immediate solutions. Who would you prefer to work with: the flawless executive or the leader who embraces their imperfections and acknowledges their limitations?
Personally, I’d choose humility over arrogance any day.
While traditional thinking suggests leaders should project unwavering confidence, embracing one’s imperfections fosters a more effective environment, promoting innovation and open communication. Many executives fear admitting ignorance, but that fear hinders their potential.
I learned the importance of being the least knowledgeable person in the room when I started at WD-40 Company in San Diego. Senior leaders gathered to hear an external consultant’s insights on the company’s direction. As a new senior leader, I felt pressure to perform. However, I felt lost, as if I was the only one who didn’t understand the conversation.
I looked around; everyone else seemed to understand and agree. Realizing I was alone in my confusion, I spoke up. “Excuse me,” I said, “but I’m completely lost.” I anticipated feeling inadequate and unqualified.
Instead, I noticed a collective sense of relief in the room. It became clear that to be an effective leader, I needed to create a safe space where everyone could admit to not knowing everything.
Most senior leaders believe they must have all the answers. However, their true role is to guide others in developing, understanding, and sharing their unique perspectives. Imagine the insights you could gain by asking questions and listening. You tap into expert knowledge, broaden your own understanding, and cultivate an environment that encourages learning, experimentation, and innovation.
It requires courage. Leaders who honestly address challenges and encourage collaboration build trust. It’s about showing humanity, not perfection. A culture of vulnerability, shared by all, fosters psychological safety, allowing everyone to speak honestly. Without this safety, the community misses out on the value of diverse perspectives. In this environment, transparency and good intentions are paramount. By sharing our mistakes, we contribute valuable knowledge to the group.
The most successful teams flourish when leaders understand that every setback—like Edison’s countless attempts to create the light bulb—represents progress, not failure. By demonstrating this perspective, leaders create environments where people feel safe to innovate, try, fail, and ultimately succeed, knowing they have the support of their community regardless of the outcome.
It’s been said that a career in leadership is “a personal development program disguised as a job.” The personal growth journey of a leader also leads to a better self and a supportive community.
Leadership isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about admitting when you don’t. Let go of the facade. Embrace your imperfections. This unlocks trust, innovation, and success. Your team is ready.
Will you maintain the illusion of certainty, or lead with authentic vulnerability? The best leaders choose vulnerability.
Anyone can do it—now it’s your turn.
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