Audacious Introverts: are (fearfully) Vulnerable

Brené Brown is an audacious introvert.

She became a thought leader by openly sharing her research on two of the most stigmatized topics in academia: shame and vulnerability.

Let me tell you why this hit like the Dubai chocolate in German convenience stores: speaking up about vulnerability sparked some significant aha moments in the world of academia where one quietly hides mistakes and failures under the rug.

As a researcher passionate about human connection, Dr. Brené dared to share her findings openly.

It was uncomfortable.

It was novel.

It was brilliant.

And inspired millions in the process.

Why are we so afraid to share what’s vulnerable to us?

Being vulnerable is often mistaken for being weak.

Weak doesn’t get you the money, the promotion, or the partner for life.

To add more fire, being vulnerable could make us different from the rest of our social circle:

• We could be judged

• We could be laughed at

• You could finally be called out as the impostor you have convinced yourself that you are

In business, this combo would be lethal.

In a society where you depend on the approval of others, you could be excluded.

But are our worries really justified?

Vulnerability is fearful, not fearless

In times where AI is fearless, it is time for us humans to be fearful.

What does it mean for our online content creation and brand?

Feeling the fear and being vulnerable is the entry price to:

• Build authentic connections online and offline

• Be heard or read by short-attention-span minds.

• Build trust. A person who has it right every time and thrives in perfection? Good for you. But also: repellent.

Your personal narrative can be your strongest differentiator.

Your hobbies, experiences, and even failures aren't just stories, they're bridges connecting you with ideal clients who share your values.

How to do this vulnerability thing: content creation SOP

If you remember one thing about Brené Brown, remember this: vulnerability is about showing up and being seen.

1. Look at content created on Linkedin

2. Realize that 90% of people say the same meaningless things

3. Obsessing about being different

Here is how to start being audaciously visible:

• Tell your story. Stories are universal. They help us share expertise in a way that resonates. My favourite content? mistakes, failures, learnings. These are insights that one can only learn from people who are trying and never stopping.

• Be different, not better. Doing something different takes courage. But being courageous and vulnerable is a practice. You only overcome the fear by actually doing it. It will be uncomfortable. Until it won’t.

• Vulnerability ≠ oversharing. Being vulnerable doesn’t give you a free pass to put your burden on others. Be mindful. Destil the value you can give.

Until next week!

Audaciously vulnerable,

Laura