Leadership Isn't About Power, It’s About Courage
The world doesn't just need people in high positions; it needs fearless leaders.
When you hear the word "leader," you might think of a CEO or a politician. But true leadership is found in the everyday, in the people brave enough to lean into the uncomfortable with empathy and curiosity.
In her book Dare to Lead, Brené Brown redefines what it means to be brave. She describes brave leaders as those who don't run from vulnerability but embrace it. They use that discomfort to understand themselves and others more deeply. These are the leaders who seek to understand the individual and aren't afraid to have the "tough conversations."
📝 Beware of the "Shitty First Draft"
One of the most transformative concepts Brown introduces is the "Shitty First Draft" (SFD).
When we feel vulnerable or ashamed, our brains instantly create a story to explain the situation. Usually, it’s the worst possible version.
The Scenario: You’re in a meeting and a colleague is unusually quiet.
The SFD: "I said something stupid," "They think I’m incompetent," or "They’re angry with me."
We attach these negative explanations to things we actually have no data on. By acknowledging that our own insecurities are driving the narrative, we can stop the cycle.
Brave leadership means:
Reflecting on the feelings behind the story.
Seeking clarity through empathy.
Debunking the myths we tell ourselves to avoid unnecessary drama.
True leadership is the courage to ask for the truth rather than settling for the "shitty" story we’ve written in our heads.
Let’s get real: What is a "Shitty First Draft" you’ve told yourself lately? How did you (or how will you) seek clarity instead?
