Snack 10: How to Lead with Vulnerability & Break the Silence

Written By Erin Diehl
 
 
 

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In today’s Workday Playdate snack, we’re talking about vulnerability at work and why speaking up might be the boldest move you make all week. 

The Problem: We’re taught to keep it polished and professional. But when life—grief, burnout, infertility—shows up, we go quiet. That silence creates distance. Between teammates. Between leaders. Even within ourselves. 

The Improv Hack to try at your next meeting: 
“Before we dive in—quick vibe check. I’m feeling ___ today, and that’s what I’m bringing into the room.” You start. Keep it honest. That one moment of realness makes it safer for others to show up, too. 

That’s the snack. Lead with your whole self. Keep it honest, keep it human. More soon. 

Journal Prompts: 

  • Where am I playing it safe instead of being real? 

  • Who on my team might need more space to be seen? 

  • What story am I holding back that could connect us? 

And if you’re interested in taking one small action right now, you can check out our newest freebie, The 5-Minute Team Commitment Reset here. Use this plug-and-play exercise at the start of any meeting to get your team mentally present, engaged, and committed. 

No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) 

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Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! 

 
Erin Diehl
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Episode 287: Breaking the Silence: A Male Perspective on Infertility & Leadership
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Episode 286: The "Hey Wait" Technique: How to Set Boundaries Like a Leader with Jay Fields