“We live in a vulnerable world.”

by Matt Mattson

Just watched this TED talk from Brene Brown, Ph.D. on vulnerability.  We’ve written about vulnerability before, as it is our 4th Pillar of Social Excellence.  If you’re interested in vulnerability and it’s role in connecting people and within organizations, take 20 minutes to watch this video.

“In order for connection to happen, we have to allow ourselves to be seen – really seen.”

That statement really cuts straight to the heart of why vulnerability is such an important component in Social Excellence. Life is about connection, as Dr. Brown argues at the beginning of the talk.  In order for connection to happen, we have to access our vulnerability and share our authentic selves with the people in front of us.

We talk about Social Excellence as the art form necessary to bring people together to make a positive impact on the world.  A million-person-movement starts with a momentary choice to be real with the person right in front of you.

P.S.  I’m adding her book to my Social Excellence reading list.  I think it has a lot to teach me about the third pillar of Social Excellence, “Authenticity.”