The Power of Vulnerability: Why it's Essential for Cause-Driven Organizations

As humans, we have a natural aversion to vulnerability. It is uncomfortable and can make us feel exposed and powerless. However, vulnerability is not a weakness, but rather a strategic ability that is essential in a cause-driven organization. In this blog post, I will explore the importance of vulnerability in organizational work, drawing on the work of Berné Brown and others, and sharing personal experiences of the power of vulnerability in my own work.

Berné Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, is a leading voice in the conversation around vulnerability. Brown defines vulnerability as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure,” and argues that it is essential to building strong relationships and creating meaningful change. In her book, Daring Greatly, Brown writes, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.”

When we work in a cause-driven organization, we are often dealing with complex and challenging issues. These issues require creativity, collaboration, and innovation to solve. However, if we are not willing to be vulnerable, we will not be able to create the safe and trusting environments that are necessary for this work. Vulnerability allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, to share our fears and hopes, and to create the space for others to do the same.

In my own work as conservation practitioner, I have seen the power of vulnerability in action. When we are willing to be vulnerable with one another, we create a sense of belonging and community that is essential to building strong relationships. We also create a safe space where people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings, which can lead to new insights and ideas.

One of the challenges of vulnerability is that it requires courage. It can be scary to share our thoughts and feelings with others, especially when we are working on sensitive or controversial issues. However, when we are willing to be vulnerable, we create the space for others to do the same. This can lead to greater empathy, understanding, and collaboration.

Another challenge of vulnerability is that it requires us to be authentic. We must be willing to show up as our true selves, with all of our strengths and weaknesses. This can be difficult, especially in a culture that often values perfection and strength over vulnerability and authenticity. However, when we are willing to be vulnerable, we create the space for others to do the same. This can lead to deeper and more meaningful relationships that are built on trust and authenticity.

Without a doubt vulnerability is a strategic ability that is essential in cause-driven organizations. It allows us to create the safe and trusting environments that are necessary for this work. It also allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, to share our fears and hopes, and to create the space for others to do the same. While vulnerability requires courage and authenticity, the benefits are clear. When we are willing to be vulnerable, we create the space for others to do the same, which can lead to greater empathy, understanding, and collaboration.


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