The Power of Vulnerability in Creating Brave Spaces
More than ever, we need spaces where we lay our armor down, if only for an hour or two.
“There must be those among whom we can sit down and weep and still be counted as warriors.” ― Adrienne Rich
When we talk about brave spaces, we’re talking about environments where people feel safe enough to be honest, take risks, and engage in meaningful conversations—especially about difficult topics. We are talking about spaces that let us be warriors and be sad and tired. Spaces that let us be champions of change and scared and uncertain. But for a space to truly be brave, it requires something that can feel uncomfortable: vulnerability.
Vulnerability is often misunderstood as weakness, or lacking professional distance but in reality, it’s the foundation of the trust and connection necessary to have honest conversations. When leaders, facilitators, and participants show vulnerability, they set the tone for everyone to be themselves, have their feelings and to come to the work as whole, complicated human beings.
Why Does Vulnerability Matter?
It Builds Trust
When someone is willing to share their struggles, mistakes, or uncertainties, it signals to others that they can do the same. Trust grows when people feel they don’t have to be perfect to be accepted.It Encourages Honesty
People are more likely to speak their truths when they see others doing it first. If we want real conversations—about race, power, equity, or any challenging topic—we have to model openness.It Creates Connection
Sharing experiences, fears, and hopes reminds us that we’re not alone. Vulnerability helps break down barriers and builds a sense of community.It Opens the Door for Learning
Brave spaces aren’t about having all the answers. They’re about being willing to listen, unlearn, and grow. Admitting what we don’t know is the first step toward learning.
How do I Show Vulnerability as a Facilitator
I Share My Own Story – I tell stories about times I have struggled or learned something the hard way. I also share joyful moments as well as my love of laughter.
I Admit When I Don’t Know Something –I don’t try to act like I have all the answers and I don’t indulge in perfectionism. I ask for help from my co-facilitator or from the people in the room.
I Name and Show My Emotions – When I am feeling some kind of way, I speak on it. If I feel touched by something or someone, I say so. It normalizes expressing emotions.
I Make Space For Other Ways of Be-ing– I try to leave space for silence, reflection, and different ways of expressing vulnerability. I also invite people to show up as best they can.
Brave spaces aren’t created by avoiding discomfort—they’re built when people feel held enough to lean into it. Vulnerability is the key. When we embrace it, we invite others to do the same, making space for real transformation and collective growth.
Is your organization in need of a brave space, where everyone can feel tended to, seen and heard? Does your organization need to connect or reconnect with your community, community partners, board members, or co-workers? Contact me at Crystal Mason Consulting or contact us at Tree Of Change.
Let’s be brave together.