Daring leaders work to make sure people can Meaning Factcheck Usage

Context

In the book, this isn’t just a nice-sounding platitude. It’s a practical mandate. She places this idea squarely in the middle of her framework for building courageous cultures. It follows her core argument that you can’t have courage without vulnerability. So, a leader’s job is to model that vulnerability first, giving others permission to bring their whole selves to work, which is the very foundation for tackling tough challenges together.

Usage Examples

So how do you actually use this? It’s in the daily interactions.

• For a Team Leader: In your next one-on-one, instead of just running through a task list, try asking, “What’s one thing you’re working on that you’d love some backup on?” This signals it’s safe to not have it all figured out.
• In a Meeting: When someone shares a half-formed idea, champion it. Say, “I love the direction you’re going with that. Let’s build on it.” You’re rewarding the risk of sharing, not just the final, polished product.
• For an Executive: Talk openly about a time you failed and what you learned. I’m serious. Your vulnerability gives everyone else in the organization a massive permission slip to be human. That’s how you scale psychological safety.

This is for anyone who leads people—managers, teachers, parents, project leads. Anyone.

To whom it appeals?

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Common Questions

Question: Doesn’t “letting people be themselves” lead to chaos or a lack of accountability?

Answer: Great question, and it’s a common fear. This isn’t about an absence of standards. It’s about creating safety within a clear, accountable structure. You can have high standards and still have a human-centered culture. In fact, the safety allows people to meet those high standards more effectively because they’re not paralyzed by fear.

Question: How is this different from just being “nice”?

Answer: Oh, it’s wildly different. Being nice is often about avoiding conflict. This is about leaning into conflict with empathy and respect. It’s daring to have the tough conversation because you care about the person and the outcome, not just keeping the peace. Nice avoids; daring engages.

Question: What’s the first step I can take tomorrow?

Answer: Start by listening. And I mean really listening—without thinking about your response. Ask a question like, “What’s a challenge you’re facing that I might not be aware of?” and then just absorb the answer. That simple act signals that their experience matters. That’s the seed of belonging.