How to Show Your Flaws to Get Results: The Counterintuitive Path to Success. Th internet has changed and you nned to change with it
The Moment Everything Changed
Three years ago, I was sitting in my home office, staring at yet another rejection email. My perfectly polished LinkedIn profile showcased only my wins, my website highlighted nothing but success stories, and my networking conversations were carefully curated to present an flawless professional image. Despite all this apparent perfection, opportunities kept slipping through my fingers.
Then something unexpected happened during a coffee meeting with a potential client. Instead of my usual polished pitch, I accidentally mentioned how I’d completely botched a project the previous month. I explained how I’d learned from the mistake and what I’d changed in my process. To my surprise, instead of walking away, she leaned in closer.
“Finally,” she said, “someone who’s actually honest about their journey.”
That conversation led to my biggest contract that year, and more importantly, it taught me a lesson that would revolutionize my approach to business and relationships.
The Vulnerability Paradox
Most of us believe that showing our flaws will make us appear weak or unprofessional. We spend countless hours crafting the perfect image, hiding our struggles, and presenting only our highlight reel. However, this approach often backfires in ways we don’t even realize.
When we hide our imperfections, we create an invisible barrier between ourselves and others. People can sense when something feels too good to be true, and perfection often triggers skepticism rather than trust. Moreover, by concealing our learning experiences, we miss opportunities to demonstrate growth, resilience, and authenticity.
The Trust Factor
Research in psychology shows that people actually trust others more when they reveal appropriate vulnerabilities. This phenomenon, known as the “pratfall effect,” suggests that competent individuals become more likeable when they make minor mistakes or admit to flaws. The key word here is “appropriate” – strategic vulnerability is about sharing meaningful struggles that demonstrate growth, not oversharing personal details.
Furthermore, when we show our flaws authentically, we give others permission to be human too. This creates deeper connections and opens doors to genuine relationships that can lead to unexpected opportunities.
But Here’s the Problem
Despite understanding the power of vulnerability, many of us struggle with how to implement this strategy effectively. We either swing too far in the opposite direction, sharing too much too soon, or we remain paralyzed by the fear of judgment. The challenge lies in finding the sweet spot between authenticity and professionalism.
Additionally, different contexts require different approaches. What works in a casual networking setting might not be appropriate in a formal business presentation. Many people get stuck because they don’t know how to calibrate their vulnerability for maximum impact.
7 Strategic Ways to Show Your Flaws for Better Results
1. Lead with Lessons Learned
Instead of hiding your mistakes, reframe them as learning experiences. When discussing past challenges, focus on what you discovered and how it improved your approach. This demonstrates growth mindset and problem-solving abilities.
2. Share Your Journey, Not Just Destinations
Rather than only highlighting end results, walk people through your process. Discuss the obstacles you encountered and how you overcame them. This makes your successes more relatable and inspiring.
3. Admit When You Don’t Know Something
Saying “I don’t know, but I’ll find out” is far more powerful than pretending to have all the answers. This shows intellectual honesty and builds trust in your other claims.
4. Use Self-Deprecating Humor Appropriately
Light, self-aware humor about your quirks or past mistakes can make you more approachable. However, be careful not to undermine your credibility or appear insecure.
5. Ask for Help When You Need It
Seeking assistance demonstrates self-awareness and creates opportunities for others to contribute. People often feel more invested in your success when they’ve helped you along the way.
6. Share Your Ongoing Challenges
Discuss current obstacles you’re working through (without oversharing). This shows you’re continuously growing and makes you appear more human and relatable.
7. Acknowledge Others’ Contributions to Your Success
Recognizing that your achievements were team efforts shows humility and builds stronger relationships with collaborators and supporters.
The Results Speak for Themselves
Since embracing strategic vulnerability, my business relationships have deepened, my client retention has improved, and opportunities have begun flowing more naturally. The connections I make now are built on genuine trust rather than artificial perfection.
Remember, showing your flaws isn’t about diminishing your worth – it’s about demonstrating your humanity while maintaining your competence. When done thoughtfully, vulnerability becomes your greatest strength.
Ready to build authentic relationships that drive real results? Join with Michael Cheney and his millionaires apprentice program today and learn how successful entrepreneurs leverage authenticity to create lasting business connections and sustainable income streams.