Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Lead with Courage

Key Lessons from Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

The courage to be vulnerable is not about winning or losing, it’s about the courage to show up when you can’t predict or control the outcome.

9 Key Takeaways from the Book

Courage and Vulnerability Go Hand in Hand

You can’t be courageous without being vulnerable. True leadership requires embracing vulnerability—taking risks, facing uncertainty, and making decisions in the face of fear.

Lead with Values

Leaders must have clarity about their values. Brown suggests narrowing down your core values to just two, which will guide you through difficult times and keep you focused on what truly matters.

Trust is Built Through BRAVING

Trust is the foundation of strong relationships and effective teams. Brown introduces the acronym BRAVING: Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Vault (confidentiality), Integrity, Non-judgment, and Generosity—key behaviors that help leaders cultivate trust.

Own Your Story

Effective leaders take ownership of their personal stories and experiences. By embracing your own story, including the tough parts, you can lead with authenticity and connect more deeply with others.

Embrace Tough Conversations

Leadership isn’t about avoiding conflict. Brown emphasizes that leaders must engage in tough conversations openly and honestly, addressing issues head-on to foster a healthy, transparent environment.

Lead with Empathy, Not Judgment

Replace judgment with curiosity. Leaders who approach their teams with empathy and an open mind foster connection, innovation, and creativity within the organization.

Boundaries Are Essential

Setting clear boundaries in relationships is crucial to maintaining trust and healthy communication. Leaders who respect boundaries can collaborate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.

Resilience Comes from Living Your Values

Resilient leaders rely on their values when facing adversity. By consistently acting in alignment with your core values, you’ll be able to navigate challenges with confidence and integrity.

Vulnerability is a Strength, Not a Weakness

Many believe that vulnerability is a sign of weakness, but Brown argues it’s the opposite. Being vulnerable is a sign of strength and is essential for meaningful leadership.

Leadership =
Vulnerability + Values
+ Trust Building Behaviours

Leadership is about showing up with courage, being true to your values, and building trust by being open and honest. Vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s a powerful strength.

Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.

Summary Note

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown highlights the importance of vulnerability, trust, and living your values in leadership. By embracing tough conversations, setting clear boundaries, and leading with empathy, leaders can create a culture of trust and inspire their teams to achieve greatness. 

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