The Power of Vulnerability – How to Create a Happy Workplace and Career!

Vulnerability at Work: The Key to Happiness and Connection

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines vulnerability as “the state of being left without shelter or protection against something harmful.” That sounds terrible, doesn’t it? I don’t know about you, but I’ve always recoiled at the thought of being left exposed to harm. But as much as we fear the idea of vulnerability, we actually need it in order to truly connect with other people—especially in our workplace and careers.

Think about it. One-third of your life is spent at work. That’s a significant chunk of time. In fact, according to Annie Dillard, “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” If you live to be 90, you’ll spend roughly 90,000 hours—or 30 years—at work. That’s 1/3 of your life!

Life is precious, and we only get one shot at it. So, if you’re going to spend that much time in your workplace and career of choice, shouldn’t it be somewhere that makes you happy? Unfortunately, for many Americans, work is far from a source of joy.

Most Americans Are Unhappy at Work

A recent article in Forbes revealed a startling statistic: 53% of Americans are unhappy at work. That means half the workforce is dissatisfied with how they spend their days. And optometrists, unfortunately, are not immune to this epidemic of unhappiness. According to a survey from Women in Optometry Magazine, nearly 40% of female optometrists report being unhappy in their careers. With approximately 20,000 female optometrists in the country, that’s nearly 8,000 women who are struggling in a profession they once loved.

So why are so many people unhappy at work? One of the top reasons, according to Psychology Today, is a lack of social connections. Rapid turnover and the increasing shift towards remote work have contributed to feelings of isolation. In a disconnected environment, workers feel lonely, unsupported, and ultimately unhappy.

The Power of Connection: Why Vulnerability Matters

If lack of connection is a root cause of unhappiness at work, then the solution is clear: we need to foster real, meaningful relationships. And the gateway to those relationships is vulnerability.

Dr. Brené Brown, an expert on vulnerability, defines it as the willingness to show up and be seen, even when the outcome is uncertain. There’s not a single act of courage that doesn’t involve vulnerability. It’s about being open to others and allowing yourself to connect on a deeper level, even at the risk of being hurt.

In the workplace, being vulnerable doesn’t mean you have to spill your life story to every colleague. But it does mean showing up authentically and being willing to share your true thoughts and feelings. Imagine how different your workday would feel if you weren’t hiding behind a mask of “everything’s fine” but instead engaging in meaningful conversations with your coworkers.

Here’s a video about vulnerability in the workplace with Dr. Brene Brown.

A Personal Example: The Power of Sharing

Let me share a quick story. There was a time when I was going through a difficult period in my career. I felt stuck, unmotivated, and alone in my struggles. One day, during a casual conversation, a colleague asked me how I was doing. Normally, I would have brushed off the question with the usual “I’m good,” but that day, I decided to be honest. I shared that I was feeling overwhelmed and unsure about my direction. To my surprise, my colleague opened up as well, sharing similar struggles. That vulnerable exchange led to a stronger connection between us and created a support system I didn’t even know I needed.

How to Create a Happier Workplace: Vulnerability in Action

Creating a happier workplace starts with vulnerability. Here are a few simple ways you can begin to foster meaningful connections in your career:

1. Be Honest in Conversations: The next time a colleague asks how you’re doing, don’t just say “good.” Really share how you’re feeling. You might be surprised by the support you receive.
2. Build New Relationships: At your next professional event, make it a point to meet someone new. Start a conversation and listen to their story without rushing to share your own. Connections are built in moments of genuine engagement.
3. Elevate Others: The next time you feel the urge to criticize or post something negative about a colleague, resist. Instead, find a way to support, uplift, or encourage them. By building each other up, we create a positive, thriving workplace culture.

These small acts of vulnerability are the stepping stones to stronger social connections at work. And when we feel connected, we’re happier, more productive, and more fulfilled.

Why Connection Matters in Optometry

At Optometry Divas, we understand the importance of connection, especially in a field where isolation and burnout are common. That’s why one of our core missions is to build a thriving community of women ODs who share real, trusting, and meaningful relationships. Lack of connection is toxic—it breeds cynicism, contempt, and burnout. But when we support each other, celebrate each other’s successes, and lift each other up, we create a culture of empowerment.

Take a moment to reflect on your own work environment. Are you fostering relationships with your colleagues, or are you keeping your walls up? Vulnerability may feel risky, but it’s the gateway to the happiness and fulfillment you seek in your career.

The Challenge: Practice Vulnerability

I challenge you to practice vulnerability in your workplace this week. Start small. The next time someone asks how you’re doing, don’t just give the standard answer—be honest. Open up a bit more in your conversations with colleagues. Reach out to someone new and listen to their story without judgment. And when you feel tempted to criticize, take a step back and find a way to encourage instead.

By practicing vulnerability, you’ll find that connections deepen, support grows, and your workplace becomes a source of joy rather than stress.

Call to Action: Join the Optometry Divas Community!

If you’re ready to be part of a community that values connection, vulnerability, and support, we invite you to join us at Optometry Divas. We’re a network of women ODs who believe that our strength lies in lifting each other up. Whether you’re looking for professional growth, personal connection, or just a group of women who understand your journey, Optometry Divas is here for you.

Visit OptometryDivas.com/join and take the first step towards building the relationships that will bring you joy and fulfillment in your career.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Heart Open

The simple things in life are often the most meaningful. It’s easy to get caught up in degrees, accolades, financial successes, and recognition. But at the core of it all, we all desire the same thing—happiness and connection. Vulnerability is a powerful bridge to developing those real, trusting, and meaningful relationships that make life and work so much richer.

Until next time, keep your heart open to the possibilities of life and remember to share these reflections with a colleague if they’ve added value to your life. We’re all in this together!