Awkwardly confident, embracing imperfection: A conversation with Henna Pryor

In this episode of "AI to Z" as we sit down with Henna Pryor, Author, workplace performance expert and founder of the Pryority Group. Henna explores the surprising power of awkwardness and how embracing imperfection can lead to professional and personal growth. Henna shares her journey as a first-generation American and how her experiences with discomfort have shaped her approach to leadership and success.

Throughout the episode, Henna provides practical strategies for turning awkward moments into opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the importance of humour in diffusing tension and creating a psychologically safe workplace. Henna's insights on vulnerability highlight how acknowledging our imperfections can foster stronger connections and drive performance.

Listen to the full episode below:

Embracing awkwardness

Embrace your awkwardness; it’s a powerful tool for authentic growth and genuine connection.

Henna Pryor discusses the concept of turning discomfort and awkwardness into a source of strength. She emphasises that awkwardness is a universal emotion often linked with vulnerability and uncertainty, and suggests strategies for harnessing it positively.

Traditionally seen as a negative emotion, Henna advocates for rethinking awkwardness as a stepping stone to vulnerability and authenticity. She highlights that acknowledging and embracing awkward moments can lead to greater personal insights and stronger connections with others.

Vulnerability and psychological safety

Humour, when used correctly is a powerful way
to create that feeling of safety.

Henna underscores that vulnerability is crucial for building trust within teams. When leaders and team members are willing to show their true selves, including their weaknesses and mistakes, it creates an environment of openness and honesty.

Vulnerability acts as a gateway to psychological safety, where individuals feel safe to express their thoughts, take risks, and make mistakes without fear of judgment or retribution. This safety is essential for fostering innovation and collaboration.

Personal and professional growth

But do I really want to make my life's decisions on what other people think? Or do I really want to try some things and feel some things out that feel right to me?

Henna shares personal anecdotes about her journey from feeling awkward due to her immigrant background to leveraging those experiences for growth. She stresses the significance of rewriting personal narratives and overcoming fears of social judgment.

Henna encourages taking micro risks—small, manageable steps that push individuals out of their comfort zones. These could be speaking up in a meeting, trying a new approach, or admitting when you don't know something. These micro risks help build confidence over time.

Strategies for handling awkwardness

Awkwardness is one of those emotions that we tend to feel so big and we don't think other people feel it as much as we do. So here's some good news. It is universal.

Practical strategies are provided for dealing with awkward situations, such as using humour, reflecting on past experiences to find the positives, and naming the awkwardness to diffuse tension. These strategies are aimed at improving the ability to navigate and recover from uncomfortable situations.

Henna discusses the importance of being well-prepared, especially for professional situations. Preparation can reduce anxiety and help you manage awkward moments more effectively.

The impact of virtual work

The virtual component, it's such a double-edged sword. In some ways, it equalises the playing field for women or marginalised group. The downside is that social atrophy is very real.

Henna Pryor discusses the impact of virtual work on social interactions, communication, and the overall work environment. She highlights both the positive and negative aspects of virtual work and offers insights on how to navigate these changes effectively.

Henna points out that virtual work can lead to social atrophy, where people forget how to engage in person and navigate social interactions effectively. This can make in-person meetings and interactions feel more awkward and challenging.

Key takeaways

Embracing awkwardness: Henna Pryor discusses the concept of turning discomfort and awkwardness into a source of strength.
Vulnerability and psychological safety: The episode highlights the importance of vulnerability in fostering trust and communication within teams.
Personal and professional growth: Henna shares personal anecdotes about her journey from feeling awkward due to her immigrant background to leveraging those experiences for growth.
Strategies for handling awkwardness: Practical strategies are provided for dealing with awkward situations, such as using humour, reflecting on past experiences to find the positives, and naming the awkwardness to diffuse tension.
The impact of virtual work: The episode touches on the challenges and benefits of virtual work environments, noting how they can both equalise and complicate social interactions.