Leadership used to be about having all the answers. Today, it’s about having the courage to ask better questions.

In the world of business—whether you're running a company, managing a team, or leading yourself through growth—one truth remains consistent: leadership requires courage. Not the loud, dramatic kind. But the quiet, steady kind that shows up in hard conversations, clear feedback, and willingness to be seen—even when you’re not sure how it will go.

Inspired by the work of researcher and author Brené Brown, I recently shared a talk on how leaders can create more trust, connection, and results by leading with vulnerability, clarity, and emotional honesty. Below are the core takeaways, written for the everyday leader navigating tough decisions, high-stakes conversations, and the tension between leading your business and living your life. Brown states, "The world’s best leaders aren't the toughest, smartest, or most charismatic—they're the most courageous.” The great news is that courage isn’t a personality trait. It’s a skill set. It can be learned. And it’s essential for leading in environments where risk, emotion, and innovation collide.”

Vulnerability Is a Strength, Not a Liability

For years, vulnerability was misunderstood as weakness. But today’s most effective leaders understand something different: vulnerability is actually the gateway to trust, innovation, and authentic connection.

Being vulnerable doesn’t mean oversharing—it means being honest. It means saying “I don’t know” when you don’t, asking for help when you need it, and being willing to show up even when the outcome is uncertain. If you want a team that’s creative, committed, and resilient, start by modeling the kind of courage you want to see. Brene states, "You can’t get to courage without walking through vulnerability. Period."

Leadership in action: Think about a moment when you made a mistake and what you learned. It signals to your team that failure is part of growth, not something to fear.

Clarity Is Kindness

One of the most avoidable problems in leadership is confusion. Whether it’s unclear expectations, half-hearted feedback, or vague communication, ambiguity erodes trust.

If you’ve ever told yourself, “I don’t want to hurt their feelings, so I’ll soften this,” remember: kindness isn’t the same as avoidance. Being clear with your team—even when it’s uncomfortable—is one of the kindest, most respectful things you can do. Vagueness is actually unkind, because it creates confusion, resentment, and underperformance.

Try this: Instead of saying, “You might want to take a look at that,” try, “This section needs to be rewritten to meet our standards by Friday. Let me know what support you need to get it done.”

Rumble, Don’t Retreat

A “rumble,” as described in Dare to Lead, is a real, honest conversation where everyone stays curious, even when it gets uncomfortable. Great leaders don’t avoid tension. They lean into it—with empathy and a willingness to learn.

In small businesses especially, where every person matters and relationships run deep, it’s tempting to keep the peace by avoiding tough conversations. But that only leads to resentment and misalignment. Rumbling helps you get to the heart of the issue—and strengthens the team in the process.

Leadership practice: Next time you notice tension in a meeting, ask: “Can we pause for a moment? What’s the real challenge here that we’re not saying out loud?”

Use Language That Builds Trust

How we speak in moments of stress or decision-making has a big impact on how safe people feel working with us. Here are a few go-to phrases that can instantly shift the tone of a conversation:

• “The story I’m telling myself is…”

• “I’m curious about…”

• “Can you help me understand…”

• “What would support from me look like right now?”

These phrases move us from blame to understanding, and from control to collaboration.

Bonus tip: Use them with clients, too—they often appreciate the same clarity and compassion your team does.

Lead from Who You Are, Not Just What You Know

Leadership isn’t just about skills—it’s about character. The way you show up in one area of life often reflects how you show up everywhere else. Are you consistent? Grounded? Willing to grow?

You don’t need to be perfect to be a great leader. But you do need to be present. People are far more likely to follow someone who is honest, open, and reflective than someone who pretends to have it all figured out.

Reflection: What’s one way you can lead more authentically this week? Maybe it’s asking for feedback, revisiting a conversation that felt off, or simply slowing down to listen.

Final Thoughts: Real Leadership Starts Inside

The most successful teams and businesses aren’t led by people who are fearless—they’re led by people who are willing to face fear with courage, honesty, and heart.

So, whether you're managing a staff of 50 or running your own solo venture, remember this: Your greatest leadership tool is who you are.

Lead with courage, lead with clarity, and lead with care.

Want support on your leadership journey? I work with small business owners, teams, and executive leaders to grow influence, improve communication, and build thriving cultures. Reach out here to learn more about coaching, group trainings, or speaking engagements.