Sharing More to Feel Less Vulnerable

It’s a catch-22: A feeling of vulnerability gets in the way of sharing, and sharing makes us feel more vulnerable. In today’s post, Dean suggests a way to get beyond this cycle and progress in your career as a result.

If You’re Private, This Is the Skill That Will Change Your Presence

Some people naturally share.

Others… don’t.

And if you’re someone who tends to keep things to yourself, you’ve probably felt this tension:

“I know I should share more… but it feels uncomfortable.”

Why This Matters in High-Stakes Moments

In everyday life, being private can work just fine.

But in moments that matter — presentations, interviews, important meetings —

sharing becomes part of the job.

Your audience isn’t just evaluating your ideas.

They’re trying to understand you.

And without some level of openness, it’s harder for them to:

  • Connect with you
  • Trust you
  • Want to work with you

Why Private People Get Thrown Off

Here’s the real challenge:

If you don’t practice sharing…

Then when the moment requires it, it feels like exposure.

Unexpected questions can feel intrusive.

Talking about yourself can feel unnatural.

And that’s when people get thrown off their game.

The Goal Isn’t to Overshare

This isn’t about turning into someone you’re not.

It’s not about sharing everything.

It’s about sharing a little more than you normally would.

Just one notch up.

What “Sharing More” Actually Looks Like

It can be simple:

  • “I’m really enjoying this conversation.”
  • “This part of the process is actually pretty challenging.”
  • “I’m excited about where this could go.”

It could also mean:

  • Asking someone how they’re doing — and genuinely listening
  • Offering a small personal insight
  • Letting people see what matters to you

None of this is dramatic.

But it’s human.

Why Practice Matters

There’s a hidden advantage to people who naturally share:

They’re used to it.

So when a tough or unexpected question comes up, it doesn’t rattle them as much.

They’ve built the muscle.

Private people often haven’t — not because they can’t, but because they haven’t practiced.

Where to Start

Don’t start in the highest-stakes moment.

Start small.

Practice in lower-pressure situations:

  • Team meetings
  • One-on-one conversations
  • Casual interactions

Just one click more openness than usual.

Final Thought

Your ideas matter.

But you matter too.

And your audience needs to see both.

So if you’re someone who tends to hold back, try this:

Share a little more than you normally would.

Over time, it won’t feel like exposure.

It will feel like presence.

No Comments yet!

Your Email address will not be published.

Receive weekly posts of insight and inspiration.