What’s one myth about leadership I’ve personally seen broken?

“Good leaders never show vulnerability.”

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Early in my career, I believed that to lead effectively, you had to be unshakable—always composed, always confident, always “perfect.” But one of the most impactful leaders I worked with shattered that notion entirely.

In the middle of a challenging project—a time when our entire team was feeling the pressure—this leader admitted to us, “I don’t have all the answers right now.” There was no covering it up with false certainty. Instead, they followed it with, “But I trust this team to figure it out together, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.”

That moment changed everything for me. Their vulnerability didn’t make them look weak—it made them relatable, approachable, and human. It brought the team closer, made us more determined, and created an environment where collaboration thrived.

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers or projecting untouchable perfection. True leadership is about creating trust, fostering open dialogue, and owning moments of uncertainty with integrity.

To all the leaders who embrace their humanity and lead with authenticity: you’re showing the rest of us the power of vulnerability.