Daring Greatly

Summary:

Researcher and thought leader Dr. Brené Brown offers a powerful new vision that encourages us to dare greatly: to embrace vulnerability and imperfection, to live wholeheartedly, and to courageously engage in our lives. 

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; . . . who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.”

— Theodore Roosevelt

Every day we experience the uncertainty, risks, and emotional exposure that define what it means to be vulnerable, or to dare greatly. Whether the arena is a new relationship, an important meeting, our creative process, or a difficult family conversation, we must find the courage to walk into vulnerability and engage with our whole hearts.

In Daring Greatly, Dr. Brown challenges everything we think we know about vulnerability. Based on twelve years of research, she argues that vulnerability is not weakness, but rather our clearest path to courage, engagement, and meaningful connection. The book that Dr. Brown’s many fans have been waiting for, Daring Greatly will spark a new spirit of truth—and trust—in our organizations, families, schools, and communities. (Summary and book cover courtesy of goodreads.com)

Review:

I found “Daring Greatly” a fascinating book to read.  A year after reading the book for the first time, I was still thinking about some of Brown’s points.  As such, I decided to pick up the book again and I found it just as relevant as it was the first time.  While there were certainly some points I disagreed (or at least would argue) with, overall the book was very helpful.  Brown forces a new perspective on communication in the household, work environment and in everyday interactions.  One thing I appreciated was that rather than purely being ‘preaching’, the book read more as personal experiences and learning points for each of those.

I’d highly recommend picking up the book.  And for those of you who prefer to read books “piecemeal” rather than in one sitting, this will be a good one for you.

If you'd like a preview of the book, check out the Ted talk here!

Rating: 4 stars!

Who Should Read it?  Folks interested in embracing a more engaged and open life.