Admit Weakness

We live as an imperfect people in an imperfect world, yet often we are hesitant to admit we have weakness. Because it is painful and it makes us vulnerable.

Intellectually, we know that weakness hold us back from achieving our fullest potential.

So we hide them, minimize them, pretend that they don’t exist, or act ignorant when they are discovered.

In order to grow strong, we have to admit our weaknesses. This paradox may seem odd, but as a person, evaluating our weakness is not only necessary, it is imperative.

Most people spend their lives trying to avoid weakness in every area of life, and when they feel most vulnerable, they try to act powerful.

Contrary to some thinking, admitting to our mistakes is a sound practice to strengthen our presence.

Marcus Buckingham states that focusing on your strengths and putting your weakness “in a box” will alienate and impact your day to day life.

There is bound to be parts of your job, your life, your career, that requires you to do things that do not play up to your strengths. Look at your weakness and make an effort to change the habit.

You may find strength and growth in admitting and owning your weaknesses. In understanding this, you will discover that weakness will make you stronger.

Lead From Within: What are some of your weakness in your life today?


Lolly Daskal is one of the most sought-after executive leadership coaches in the world. Her extensive cross-cultural expertise spans 14 countries, six languages and hundreds of companies. As founder and CEO of Lead From Within, her proprietary leadership program is engineered to be a catalyst for leaders who want to enhance performance and make a meaningful difference in their companies, their lives, and the world.

Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.

  1. @ToddWeissCFA

    19. Jul, 2010

    Lolly, I spent several years in the corporate world and now own my own business and have interests in other ventures. If there is one thing I have learned, successful people understand and are comfortable with their weaknesses. They take a proactive approach to find solutions to address there weak points, yet focus on their strengths. Ironically, I think admitting a weakness is a sign of strength. TW

    Reply to this comment
    • Lolly Daskal

      19. Jul, 2010

      Todd, I totally agree. Admitting weakness is a sign of strength. I tired to convey that point in this post.
      Thanks for your comments. Much appreciated.

      Reply to this comment
  2. Mike

    11. Jun, 2012

    Totally agree…great article

    Reply to this comment

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