Leadership Vulnerability

""If we are brave enough often enough, we will fall. These are the physics of vulnerability."-Brene Brown

The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership
 @ Ms. Irons Sharpens

Welcome to The RISE Above Migraine blog, where we delve into authentic leadership while embracing the challenges of living with chronic migraine. Let's explore how vulnerability can transform not only your leadership style but also enhance your mental well-being and those around you.

Personal Journey

Oh my goodness, I can feel the anxiety in my belly, my breathing is rapid, the walls are closing in on me, and the tears are running down my face. Flashback to a few years ago: this was me, overwhelmed by another panic attack. Triggers eluded me, yet I knew something was amiss. Sharing these experiences seemed daunting, especially as leaders are perceived to always have it together. But let's bust a myth—strength doesn't mean bottling up emotions.

The Migraine and Mental Health Connection

Did you know? According to a 2022 survey by the American Migraine Foundation, there's a significant link between migraine and mental health. Almost 60% of those with migraine reported anxiety disorders, 50% experienced depression, and 25% faced PTSD. This connection reinforces that addressing mental health is not just important—it's essential.

Research from the Harvard Business Review reveals that vulnerable authenticity in leadership boosts team performance by 34%. For women managing chronic migraine, this insight speaks volumes. Vulnerability is about embracing your truth and using it to foster an environment where everyone, including yourself, can thrive.

The Strength in Sharing:

- Builds trust through authenticity

- Creates space for open dialogue

- Encourages team members to seek support when needed

- Fosters a culture of understanding and accommodation

Strategic Vulnerability:

- Share appropriately and professionally

- Focus on solutions and adaptations

- Demonstrate resilience through challenges

- Use your experience to inform inclusive policies

Impactful Leadership:

- Reduced stigma around health challenges

- Improved team communication

- Enhanced problem-solving capabilities

- Stronger team cohesion

Image Source: https://migrastil.com/pages/what-causes-migraine

Leadership Quarterly tells us that teams led by genuinely vulnerable leaders achieve:

- 40% higher engagement

- 27% better productivity

- 50% better retention rates

Remember: Vulnerability isn't weakness; it's conscious courage. When you share your journey thoughtfully, you create a more inclusive, understanding, and effective workplace for everyone.

Your openness about managing chronic migraine while leading can inspire others and create lasting positive change in workplace culture.

Stay tuned for next weeks blog as I continue sharing this journey of perseverance setbacks, small victories, and hope. Schedule a consultation here: https://ironsconsultinggroupllc.com/contactus

visit us @ironsconsultinggroupllc.com and follow us on social media.