MANY CLIENTS I WORK WITH experience a sense of isolation.

It’s not that they don’t have lots of people around them, but that they’re stuck with the idea that they can’t open up to their friends, employees, and partners.  Sometimes that’s why they hire a coach.

We always find that there are more resources at hand, though.  It’s really more about getting hung up on the idea that you need to have all the answers, and look professional.

I’ve found that the image of professionalism is much less important than authenticity and vulnerability.  When someone is being vulnerable with you, you want to help them and be more sensitive to their feelings.

There are always jerks in the world that might not treat you that way, but honestly you don’t want them in your life.  Much less influencing what direction you take your business.

Vulnerability can be emotionally difficult.  But once you get over your ego, it’s actually not that hard.  Here’s how it works:

  1. Be honest.
  2. Ask for help.

No, really!

I would hope that you know how to do this with close friends and family, but it’s just as powerful with your leadership team, employees, partners, and even customers.

And guess what?  When you have people around you who are willing to help, it doesn’t feel like such a lonely journey.