Vulnerability and Female Leadership

have been thinking a lot about women, vulnerability, and leadership. Sunday night Tim and I attended a CASA event at the Commerce Club featuring James and Patrice Comey. If you don't know their personal story, you are missing out. They have 5 children and fostered children through out their marriage. In fact they were so close to one child they fostered (and helped get permanently placed) the family moved to D.C. when he came FBI Director so they could remain close. I digress . . . .

As I listened to James Comey talk about their journey, I began to cry. I cried witnessing the love and caring the Comey's showed towards each other, but also for the kindness and compassion they have showed for dozens of children over the last 20+ years. I don't know many public leaders in this day and age who show that kind of personal commitment. . . and are vulnerable enough to share their journey.

My sweet husband said to me "Honey, perhaps you should think about being less emotional. With your new leadership positions . . . . well what will people think." I know my husband well enough to know he was looking out for me. But in that moment it also made me realize what he said was right (well sort of). There is a stigma associated with women (and men) showing vulnerability and expressing emotions. Anger seems to be the one emotion that we allow.

Of course I responded in kind to my husband and said, "if I can't be authentic with my own feelings, how can I expect my clients to be open and honest about their feelings and emotions." I believe the greatest sign of strength is to be vulnerable enough to share your emotions with others. That my friends is how true intimacy is formed. #vulnerability #counseling #leadership

I am interested in hearing your thoughts.

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