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Leadership is not a title, it’s a practice
#6
Hello everyone! Today, we’re taking a look at “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown, a guide to becoming a courageous leader in an era marked by uncertainty, change, and vulnerability. Let’s dive in.
In a world that constantly evolves, leadership is more critical than ever. Brené Brown's book is rooted in the belief that leadership is not a title, but a practice. This book challenges traditional leadership paradigms and equips individuals with the tools and mindset to lead with empathy, authenticity, and resilience.
Principle #1: Embrace Vulnerability
Brown emphasizes that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength in leadership. It involves the courage to show up, engage, and be seen, even when there are no guarantees.
Principle #2: Lead with Values
Leadership should be anchored in clarity of values. Knowing and owning your values is crucial for making decisions and inspiring others.
Principle #3: Cultivate Trust
Trust is the foundation of effective leadership. Brown introduces the BRAVING inventory as a tool for building and measuring trust.
Principle #4: Rumble with Tough Conversations
Brown encourages leaders to engage in honest, tough conversations. This involves staying curious, asking questions, and listening with the same passion with which we want to be heard.
"Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome."
“I define a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and who has the courage to develop that potential.”
“People are opting out of vital conversations about diversity and inclusivity because they fear looking wrong, saying something wrong, or being wrong. Choosing our own comfort over hard conversations is the epitome of privilege, and it corrodes trust and moves us away from meaningful and lasting change.”
Practice Vulnerability: Start sharing your own challenges and uncertainties in team meetings. This openness can foster a culture of trust and encourage others to do the same.
Define and Share Your Values: Clearly articulate your core values and integrate them into your decision-making process. Share these values with your team and discuss how they can be reflected in your collective work.
Engage in Brave Conversations: When faced with a difficult conversation, approach it with honesty and openness. Practice active listening and empathy to understand different perspectives.
The 'Values-Driven Leadership' Week: For one week, focus each day on one of your core values. Reflect on how you can embody this value in your leadership style and interactions with others. At the end of the day, journal about your experiences, challenges, and learnings.
Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, has become a leading voice in the discussion of vulnerability, courage, and empathy.
Her TED talk on vulnerability is one of the most watched talks in the world, with millions of views. Beyond her professional life, Brown is open about her own struggles with vulnerability and shame, often sharing personal stories that resonate with her audience.
What truly sets Brown apart is her ability to blend research with storytelling, making complex psychological concepts accessible and relatable to a wide audience. But don’t take it from us, see her in action here:
We hope you enjoyed learning more about what it truly means to be a leader.
As always, if you have any feedback or questions, just hit reply.
A Book a Week Team