The Power of Vulnerability in Coaching and Facilitation
Have you ever felt like you're barely keeping it together, while the world sees only your composed exterior? You're not alone. In our Live Online facilitating as coach course, The Art, we explore the importance of vulnerability and its essential role for every facilitator and coach. We encourage facilitators to step into their vulnerable selves, reflecting back to participants how they want them to be.
During Session Three, each participant shares an unscripted story of vulnerability, directly from the heart. We’re all on Zoom with our camera off, except for the person sharing their story. Through this process, vulnerability transforms from concept to reality. As participants connect with the storyteller's vulnerability, they show their support by turning their cameras on, creating a visual ripple of connection and understanding.
Have you ever felt like you're barely keeping it together, while the world sees only your composed exterior? You're not alone. In our course, The Art, we explore the power of vulnerability and its essential role for every facilitator and coach. We encourage facilitators to step into their vulnerable selves, reflecting back to participants how we want them to be.
The Red Mist and the Real Us
We've all experienced those moments when the 'red mist' descends, and emotions overwhelm us. It might be anger, disappointment or a crushing sense of inadequacy. These moments reveal our humanity and the universal challenges we all face.
One participant in our recent cohort of The Art shared, "I couldn't sleep. I had this weird feeling in my gut." Three people immediately turned on their cameras. Sound familiar? These raw, honest statements resonate because they mirror our shared experiences, giving voice to feelings we often struggle to express.
Despite knowing that human experience is inherently shared, we're often expected to hide our true feelings and project strength in the face of challenge. As one participant reflected on the price of being true to herself, "Freedom comes at a cost."
Yet, we would argue that the cost of suppressing vulnerability may be even greater.
The Transformation in Authenticity
What happens when we conceal our vulnerabilities? Do we deepen our disconnection from others? Do we deny ourselves the time and space to process and release our feelings?
An educator who also happens to be a mother shared her vulnerable story of loss—a tale that touched every participant with its universality. She described the stark contrast between her composed exterior and her inner turmoil, using vivid metaphors that moved the entire group. Every camera turned on.
Her story reinforces that vulnerability is courage. When we show up as our authentic selves, we demonstrate bravery, not weakness. We exemplify our shared humanity.
How can we bring this into our schools?
In our fast-paced school environments, where hierarchies exist and time feels scarce, we often feel compelled to mask our vulnerability. But we have to ask the question, what are the unintended consequences? What emotions do we suppress, and what behaviours are we modelling for our colleagues and students?
Please consider these questions:
How might you create spaces to lower your defences?
What could emerge if you allowed yourself to be truly seen, even in moments of struggle?
What would it look like if you were just 10% more vulnerable?
By reflecting on and acting upon these questions, who might feel inspired to "turn on their camera", connect with you, and reveal more of their authentic self?
Remember, vulnerability isn't just a personal journey—it's a gift to those around you. Whether you're leading a room or coaching an individual, your vulnerability is a skill to nurture. Consider how you might lean into vulnerability more in your daily interactions and thus, inspire others to do the same.