Dare to Lead
Brené Brown
“In her #1 NYT bestsellers, Brené Brown taught us what it means to dare greatly, rise strong and brave the wilderness. Now, based on new research conducted with leaders, change makers and culture shifters, she’s showing us how to put those ideas into practice so we can step up and lead. Leadership is not about titles, status and power over people. Leaders are people who hold themselves accountable for recognising the potential in people and ideas, and developing that potential. This is a book for everyone who is ready to choose courage over comfort, make a difference and lead.”
I first listened to Dare to Lead as an audiobook read by Brené Brown herself, and her engaging delivery truly brought the ideas to life. When I recently got my hands on a hard copy, I knew it was worth a second read. The author’s concept of vulnerability as a pathway to developing strengths—such as courage, integrity, authenticity, and connection—resonates deeply. Her message that courage and fear can coexist, that “clear is kind,” and that “who we are is how we lead” left a lasting impact on me. These principles encourage leaders not to shy away from difficult conversations and to stay true to their values, even when it’s challenging.
One of the themes in Dare to Lead is the importance of connection, which the author emphasizes as fundamental to both professional and personal life. Her approach to “daring leadership” advocates humanizing ourselves and those we work with, using vulnerability to build trust, strengthen relationships, and foster confidence. She provides clear examples of what daring leadership looks like—and what it doesn’t. The author also discusses the discomfort that comes with aligning with one’s values and the courage required to act on them.
While I found many takeaways that could truly transform workplace dynamics, I did notice that certain sections felt a bit dry or overly theoretical. At times the book references research without including enough real-life case studies to balance it out.
Dare to Lead is packed with insights that can benefit any leader willing to embrace its lessons. You can’t finish it on a “short flight” like she aimed, but it’s worth taking the time to make notes and reflect. If more leaders were willing to put her ideas into practice, I believe workplaces could become more supportive, empowering, and impactful spaces. 4 stars, although I did re-read it, maybe close to 5.
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I came into this book with high expectations and maybe that’s exactly why it left me so disappointed. The premise is actually quite appealing. The idea of a connections manager is something I genuinely resonate with (probably because I already see myself as one, haha). But sadly, the delivery didn’t live up to its potential.
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