Vulnerability and Joy: Two Essentials for Cancer Center Leaders

Vulnerability and joy are two essentials for leaders of cancer centers, says Brian Bolwell, MD, Chair of Physician Leadership and Development and former Chair of Taussig Cancer Institute. That was his takeaway from the book Daring Greatly by research professor and renowned speaker Brené Brown.

“Some of the best talks I have ever heard by leaders occur when they are open about their mistakes, when they admit that they do not have all the answers — when they are vulnerable,” says Dr. Bolwell. “Being vulnerable as a leader can stimulate engagement and connection.”

One part of being vulnerable — particularly in a cancer center environment, he notes — is permitting yourself to experience joy.

“We see tragedy all the time. People in our field are taught to temper joy, to remain even keeled,” he says. “…While what we do is really difficult, it should not be an excuse to disregard the good things in life.”

Read more of Dr. Bolwell’s editorial on vulnerability, joy and Daring Greatly in his October column of Oncology Times.