In a memo written by new Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi he admits to his employees at Expedia (the company he is departing) “I am scared.” The language in the memo has been hailed as setting the tone for his leadership. In particular, this memo has been used to highlight being vulnerable as a part of leading.

I recall a retreat on transition I attended three years ago, and one of the questions that surprised me (and stuck with me). “What have you done today that scared you?” You don’t hear very often the idea of being scared in your professional life. I often looked at risk as something to avoid and to mitigate. Here we were talking about being scared as a routine way to ensure we were stepping outside our comfort zone.

When you challenge yourself to take on something that makes you uncomfortable, you are forcing yourself to grow. Growth is uncomfortable. It is much more comfortable to do something you do well. Starting something that may fail means you are pushing yourself to achieve more. I see Khosrowshahi's memo as a personal reflection on his willingness to take on a challenge that will push him outside his comfort zone. This behavior is a key trait for any leader who wants to grow.

I find it interesting that he chose to communicate this feeling to his team at Expedia. Sharing the uncertainty makes him vulnerable, although vulnerability does not have to equate to weakness. There are many who look at vulnerability as a statement of courage and strength. Consider how much confidence one must have to admit that they are scared of a new challenge.

Brene Brown writes “Vulnerability is about sharing our feelings and our experiences with people who have earned the right to hear them.” I find this statement speaks to me in that we need to choose with whom to be vulnerable. We may not choose to be vulnerable with everyone. When we choose to open up to those we lead, it can strengthen our relationships and encourage them to open up to us.

As Brown’s quote indicates, some have not earned the right for us to be vulnerable with them. I recall working in an organization where I mistook my peer group for a safe place to open up. I shared some growth areas I was working on in managing my time and priorities. I saw an opportunity to help others I witnessed struggling with some of the same issues. Rather than reciprocate my openness, I found this group willing to take advantage of my vulnerability for their gain.

I wonder did Khosrowshahi choose to be candid with his feelings knowing it would receive wide distribution. I wonder how his new employees at Uber reading the words “I am scared.” Does it covey weakness? Or courage? I encourage you to choose when and with whom you open up to about your feelings.

Taking risks in your professional career will help you grow. Consider what you have done this week that scares you (and why). Examine vulnerability as a leadership trait. Sharing some of your feelings on risk will set the tone in your organization, and encourage others to take risks and achieve more.