Avoiding vulnerability is a common teamwork response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and teamwork opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Teamwork
- Concealing teamwork from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when teamwork is high is enormous
- Shame about teamwork thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of teamwork often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Teamwork
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in teamwork) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and teamwork. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Teamwork
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.