15 Kickass Brené Brown Quotes on Courage, Bravery, and Vulnerability
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about showing up even when you’re scared. Brené Brown’s words have been a guiding light for me, reminding me that vulnerability is strength and bravery is about being real.
If you need a little inspiration to embrace your boldest, most authentic self, these Brené Brown quotes will encourage you to step into your power.
Brené Brown Quotes on Courage, Bravery, and Vulnerability
These quotes, many of which are inspired by Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability and courage, highlight the importance of embracing our imperfections, showing up authentically, and allowing ourselves to be seen. Here’s a deeper explanation of each:
“Vulnerability is not about winning or losing; it’s about having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.”
Vulnerability isn’t about always succeeding or getting the results we want; it’s about being brave enough to take risks, even when we don’t know what will happen. Whether it’s expressing our emotions, pursuing a dream, or forming relationships, true strength comes from stepping forward despite uncertainty.
“Courage starts with showing up and allowing ourselves to be seen.”
The first step to courage isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about being present and being real. Whether in relationships, work, or personal growth, true bravery comes from allowing others to see us for who we truly are, without hiding behind perfection or fear.
“Vulnerability is where innovation, creativity, and change are born.”
To create something new—whether in art, business, or personal transformation—we must take risks. Vulnerability fuels creativity because it requires stepping into the unknown, embracing the possibility of failure, and daring to be different. Without it, progress and growth wouldn’t be possible.
“You are imperfect, you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.”
This quote is a powerful reminder that flaws and hardships don’t make us unworthy of love. Struggles are a natural part of being human, but they don’t define our value. We don’t have to be perfect to deserve connection and acceptance.
“The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.”
Every time we choose to face a challenge, open up to others, or step into discomfort, we build resilience. Even if we don’t feel strong in the moment, showing up consistently makes us more confident and courageous over time.
“Owning our story can be challenging, but avoiding it is far more painful.”
Denying or suppressing our past—our struggles, mistakes, and experiences—only leads to more suffering. True healing and growth come from embracing our story, learning from it, and allowing it to shape us into stronger, more authentic individuals.
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s not weakness.”
Being vulnerable means being honest about our emotions, struggles, and desires, even when it feels scary. Though society sometimes associates vulnerability with weakness, it actually requires great strength to be open and truthful about who we are.
“Vulnerability is the most authentic state. It means being open to both pain and pleasure.”
To truly live an authentic life, we must be open to both joy and heartbreak. Shielding ourselves from pain also means missing out on love, growth, and meaningful experiences. Embracing vulnerability allows us to experience life fully.
“To love ourselves and support each other in the process of becoming real is an act of daring greatly.”
Becoming our most authentic selves—”becoming real”—isn’t always easy, but it’s a journey worth taking. Supporting others in their growth and self-acceptance requires love and bravery, just as loving ourselves through imperfections does.
“Courage is contagious. A community of brave leaders builds a culture of courage.”
When people in a community or organization embrace courage, it inspires others to do the same. A culture of bravery, honesty, and authenticity grows when individuals support and uplift each other, rather than fearing judgment.
“Imperfections are not inadequacies; they connect us through our shared humanity.”
Our flaws don’t make us less worthy—they make us relatable. Everyone experiences doubts, fears, and struggles, and it’s through these shared experiences that we form genuine connections. Imperfections bring us closer, not further apart.
“I’m afraid of showing vulnerability, but I seek it in others as a sign of connection.”
We often admire honesty and openness in others, yet we fear exposing our own weaknesses. This quote highlights the paradox of vulnerability: we see it as strength in others but as a risk in ourselves.
“Vulnerability is about showing up and being seen, despite the fear of judgment.”
Even when we’re afraid of criticism or rejection, vulnerability means stepping forward anyway. It’s about allowing ourselves to be seen for who we truly are, rather than hiding out of fear.
“What we know is important, but who we are matters more.”
Knowledge and skills have value, but our character, integrity, and authenticity are what truly define us. Who we are as people—how we treat others, how we show up in life—matters far more than just what we know.
“Exploring our darkness reveals the limitless power of our light.”
Facing our fears, insecurities, and past struggles is difficult, but it’s necessary for growth. Only by acknowledging and working through our darkness can we fully embrace our strengths, happiness, and potential.
Bravery Begins with Being Real
Courage isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, even when it’s hard. Brené Brown’s wisdom teaches us that strength comes from vulnerability, and the more we embrace who we are, the more powerful we become.
So, keep showing up, keep being real, and remember—your courage is your greatest strength.
