Table of Contents
Introduction
Brené Brown (b. 1965) is an American professor, author, and researcher famous for her extensive research on human emotions such as courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy.
Basically, she explores what it means to be human and how we can live happier and more fulfilling lives. She isn’t just a researcher – she’s also a storyteller as she shares personal experiences and stories to help us relate to the ideas she talks about.
The quotes by Brené Brown share a simple yet powerful message: it’s okay to be imperfect, to be vulnerable, and to dare to be great. In a world that often requires us to hide our true selves, her bestseller books such as ‘Rising Strong’ and ‘Daring Greatly’ act as symbols of hope for everyone.
In this blog post, I’ve shared 86 Brene Brown quotes on vulnerability, courage, leadership, love, shame, connection & change with an analysis of some of them. So, let’s dive in…
15 Best Brene Brown Quotes
The dark does not destroy the light; it defines it. It’s our fear of the dark that casts our joy into the shadows.
Brené Brown
Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together.
Brené Brown
We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.
Brené Brown
Want to be happy?
Brené Brown
Stop trying to be perfect.
Brief Analysis
Trying to achieve perfection is like chasing a shadow, always out of reach. We set high bars for ourselves, thinking that’s the key to happiness.
But the truth is, when we let go of our need to be perfect, we find more joy. We’re all human, after all, so we’re bound to stumble and make mistakes.
Imagine the relief when we accept the fact that not everything has to be perfect. This can help our lives become lighter, more fun, and definitely happier.
So, as we rush into our imperfect lives, remember these words by Brené Brown and embrace our imperfections.
Also Read: 19 Daring Greatly Quotes by Brene Brown
Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.
Brené Brown
Perfectionism is a self-destructive and addictive belief system that fuels this primary thought: If I look perfect and do everything perfectly, I can avoid or minimize the painful feelings of shame, judgment, and blame.
Brené Brown
We cannot selectively numb emotions. When we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.
Brené Brown
Nostalgia is also a dangerous form of comparison. Think about how often we compare our lives to a memory that nostalgia has so completely edited that it never really existed.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
We all look back on our past with a warm glow, remembering the good times more than the bad. But here’s the thing: this quote by Brene Brown shows that those memories might not be as accurate as we think.
Nostalgia can edit our memories, making them seem perfect and carefree. This often leads us to compare our present lives to these unrealistic versions of the past.
As a result, the danger is that we might end up feeling down about our present, not because it’s bad, but because it doesn’t match our fantasy.
Let’s cherish our memories but also embrace the present. After all, today’s moments are tomorrow’s memories, and they deserve our full appreciation.
When we fail to set boundaries and hold people accountable, we feel used and mistreated. This is why we sometimes attack who they are, which is far more hurtful than addressing a behavior or a choice.
Brené Brown
At the end of the day, at the end of the week, at the end of my life, I want to say I contributed more than I criticized.
Brené Brown
Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.
Brené Brown
There are too many people today who, instead of feeling hurt, are acting out their hurt; instead of acknowledging pain, they’re inflicting pain on others.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
It is common for us to act out of pain and not consider the consequences of our actions for others.
This is because when we are trying to deal with our own problems, we unintentionally overflow our emotions onto others.
As a result, our pain may trigger the pain of others, who may then pass it on. It’s like a domino effect, where one person’s hurt triggers another’s, creating an endless cycle of pain.
So, in order to break this cycle, let’s try to understand our emotions and deal with them in healthier ways.
What separates privilege from entitlement is gratitude.
Brené Brown
I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.
Brené Brown
Maybe stories are just data with a soul.
Brené Brown
14 Brene Brown Quotes on Vulnerability
Staying vulnerable is a risk we have to take if we want to experience connection.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
We often build walls around ourselves, thinking they’ll keep us safe. But in reality, they keep out the good stuff too. Connection, love, and belonging all require us to be vulnerable.
Vulnerability means showing someone our true selves, even the parts we’re afraid of. It’s scary, sure, but it’s the only way to build genuine connections with others.
This honesty opens the door for deeper, more meaningful relationships since we invite others to be authentic with us as well.
So, let this Brene Brown quote on vulnerability encourage us to be vulnerable, and share our true self with someone we trust, as true connection comes from vulnerability.
Through my research, I found that vulnerability is the glue that holds relationships together. It’s the magic sauce.
Brené Brown
Owning our story can be hard, but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love, belonging, and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable.
Brené Brown
When I look at narcissism through the vulnerability lens, I see the shame-based fear of being ordinary.
Brené Brown
If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Being vulnerable might seem scary, but it’s actually where all the cool, new stuff begins. It’s like stepping into a whole new world of possibilities.
This Brene Brown vulnerability quote shows that when we’re open about not knowing everything, we start getting creative. We ask questions, explore, and are fearless in making mistakes.
This openness leads us to see things in fresh and exciting ways. It’s like turning on a light in a room that’s been dark for too long.
In essence, embracing this vulnerability is not just about taking risks; it’s about clearing the way for real change and growth.
Vulnerability is not weakness; it’s our greatest measure of courage.
Brené Brown
Integrity is choosing courage over comfort, choosing what is right over what is fun, fast, or easy, and choosing to practice our values rather than simply professing them.
Brené Brown
The intention and outcome of vulnerability are trust, intimacy, and connection. The outcome of oversharing is distrust, disconnection – and usually a little judgment.
Brené Brown
Avoidance will make you feel less vulnerable in the short run, but it will never make you less afraid.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
When we avoid our fears, it’s like hiding in a safe bubble. But this bubble doesn’t actually make the fear disappear; it just distracts us from it for a while.
As we keep avoiding what scares us, those fears become bigger and more intimidating in our minds.
Interestingly, when we finally face our fears, we often find that they are not as scary as we thought. This shows us our strength and determination.
In the end, it’s facing our fears, not avoiding them, that truly diminishes them. It teaches us that we’re braver than we think.
People will do almost anything to not feel pain, including causing pain and abusing power.
Brené Brown
Vulnerability is about showing up and being seen. It’s tough to do that when we’re terrified about what people might see or think.
Brené Brown
The difficult thing is that vulnerability is the first thing I look for in you and the last thing I’m willing to show you. In you, it’s courage and daring. In me, it’s a weakness.
Brené Brown
But what we know now is that when we deny our emotion, it owns us. When we own our emotions, we can rebuild and find our way through the pain.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
When we ignore our emotions, we’re letting them run wild, causing chaos. Initially, we might think we’re avoiding trouble, but in reality, we’re just adding fuel to the fire.
On the other hand, facing our feelings is similar to taming a wild horse. Although this process is challenging, it brings a sense of control and direction, regardless of the circumstances.
Subsequently, acknowledging our emotions doesn’t immediately solve everything, but it acts like a compass in a dense forest. It doesn’t clear the trees but shows the way through.
In conclusion, this vulnerability quote by Brene Brown tells us that owning our emotions empowers us to rebuild and heal. It’s a journey through pain that leads to strength and understanding.
I think our capacity for wholeheartedness can never be greater than our willingness to be broken-hearted. It means engaging with the world from a place of vulnerability and worthiness.
Brené Brown
11 Brene Brown Quotes on Courage
Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Courage begins when we step into the spotlight, vulnerable and open. It’s about being seen, not just performing brave deeds.
Moreover, this Brene Brown quote on courage points towards showing our true selves, flaws and all. It’s moving forward despite our fears.
Furthermore, each time we’re authentically visible, our courage grows. In these moments, our true strength shines through.
Ultimately, courage is about embracing our truth and standing for our beliefs. Through these acts, we find our resilience and power.
Also Read: 70 Margaret Atwood Quotes on Life, Love, Feminism & Writing (Analysis)
Faith is a place of mystery, where we find the courage to believe in what we cannot see and the strength to let go of our fear of uncertainty.
Brené Brown
Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.
Brené Brown
The truth about who we are lives in our hearts. Our call to courage is to protect our wild hearts against constant evaluation, especially our own. No one belongs here more than you.
Brené Brown
Show up for people in pain, and don’t look away.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
When someone we know is in pain, we usually feel unsure about how to help. We worry about saying or doing the wrong thing. However, just being there for them is what truly matters.
Importantly, being present doesn’t require grand gestures or perfect words. It’s more about offering a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on.
Moreover, choosing not to turn away, even when it’s uncomfortable, makes a huge difference. It shows we care and are willing to share in their struggle.
In the end, it is this act of empathy and connection that supports them and enriches our own sense of compassion, as this inspiring Brene Brown quote shows us.
There is no innovation and creativity without failure. Period.
Brené Brown
You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort. You can not have both.
Brené Brown
I’ve found what makes children happy doesn’t always prepare them to be courageous, engaged adults.
Brené Brown
Talk about your failures without apologizing.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Discussing our failures openly, without making excuses, is a sign of strength, not a sign of failure. It’s about being honest with ourselves and others.
Acknowledging these setbacks as part of our journey requires courage and acceptance. It’s about embracing both our successes and our failures.
This honest approach turns our mistakes into valuable lessons. As we face setbacks, they become stepping stones for our growth.
In sharing these experiences, we reframe failures as chapters of resilience, which reshapes our perspective on life, as this courage quote by Brene Brown suggests.
Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.
Brené Brown
The truth is that falling hurts. The dare is to keep being brave and feel your way back up.
Brené Brown
9 Brene Brown Quotes on Love
You are imperfect; you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
As human beings, we are all imperfect, and we all have our own struggles and flaws that can’t be avoided.
Yet, these imperfections don’t diminish our worthiness of love and belonging. Instead, they often deepen our connections with others, making us more relatable.
Despite our flaws, we all deserve love and belonging, enhancing our authenticity. After all, our imperfections contribute to our unique identities.
So, let this Brene Brown quote on love encourage us to see our unique qualities and remind us of our worth.
I now see how owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.
Brené Brown
Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love.
Brené Brown
Compassion is not a virtue — it is a commitment. It’s not something we have or don’t have — it’s something we choose to practice.
Brené Brown
We can only love others as much as we love ourselves.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
If you think of your heart as a bucket full of love, the more you pour into yourself, the more it overflows to others, and then you’ve got plenty to share.
But if you’re harsh on yourself, it’s like making holes in that bucket. Doubts and negativity let the love escape, leaving less for others and yourself.
Now, imagine filling those holes with self-kindness and celebrating your own strengths. That’s how you refill your love bucket and make it easier to spread love, as this Brene Brown saying suggests.
All in all, the journey to self-love isn’t always smooth, but it’s worth it in the end. As you learn to love yourself more, you not only enrich your own life but also those around you.
Just because someone isn’t willing or able to love us, it doesn’t mean that we are unlovable.
Brené Brown
Shame, blame, disrespect, betrayal, and the withholding of affection damage the roots from which love grows. Love can only survive these injuries if they are acknowledged, healed, and rare.
Brené Brown
When you get to a place where you understand that love and belonging, your worthiness, is a birthright and not something you have to earn, anything is possible.
Brené Brown
When the people we love stop paying attention, trust begins to slip away, and hurt starts seeping in.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
When someone close starts paying less attention to us, it feels like a tiny crack appearing in a once-solid wall. Initially, it might seem small, but over time, that crack can expand.
As this attention continues to fade, our trust in the relationship becomes shaky, which makes us feel unsure and doubtful.
Often, we don’t notice this change immediately until the relationship slowly becomes less stable due to lack of attention.
In essence, this love quote by Brene Brown quote emphasizes the importance of caring in relationships; it is the daily acts of caring that keep us connected.
Also Read: 67 Brianna Wiest Quotes on Life, Love, Happiness & Selfcare
8 Brene Brown Quotes on Shame
Shame corrodes the very part of us that believes we are capable of change.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
When we feel shame, it’s like a heavy weight pulling down on our self-belief, often leading us to doubt our ability to change and grow.
Consequently, this shame acts as a barrier, blocking our view of what we could become and the potential we hold.
To overcome this, shifting focus is crucial here. Instead of dwelling on our faults, recognizing them as chances for growth leads to positive change.
In essence, this Brene Brown quote on shame highlights that breaking free from its hold is essential for our transformation. It is only through overcoming shame that we unlock our true potential.
You cannot shame or belittle people into changing their behaviors.
Brené Brown
If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.
Brené Brown
Shame is the most corrosive thing in work culture, as it changes the belief of who we can be and what we can do better.
Brené Brown
What we don’t need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Even though life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, it’s normal to feel frustrated, scared, or stressed. But sometimes, we judge ourselves for having these feelings.
But as this quote by Brene Brown says, shame doesn’t help when we’re struggling. In fact, it can actually make things worse.
Instead, we need compassion, both for ourselves and for others. It’s about understanding that it’s okay not to have all the answers and to feel vulnerable.
So, next time you feel overwhelmed or ashamed, remember this: you’re not alone. Everyone struggles. Be kind to yourself, accept your feelings, and seek support if needed. You got this!
Additional Reading: Brené Brown on Shame and How to Heal From It
Shame is that warm feeling that washes over us, making us feel small, flawed, and never good enough.
Brené Brown
Shame is the most powerful master emotion. It’s the fear that we’re not good enough.
Brené Brown
Shame works like the zoom lens on a camera. When we are feeling shame, the camera is zoomed in tight and all we see are our flawed selves, alone and struggling.
Brené Brown
6 Brene Brown Quotes on Leadership
Daring leaders work to make sure people can be themselves and feel a sense of belonging.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Ever feel like you have to hide your true self to fit in? We all have parts of ourselves that we’re afraid to show the world. But imagine a place where everyone feels comfortable being themselves.
That’s the kind of environment that great leaders aim for. They believe that when people feel accepted and valued, they’re more likely to be happy and successful.
So, how can we build this kind of environment? It starts with small things, like being open-minded and accepting of others, as well as actively listening to people’s ideas.
Thus, we can all contribute to making the world more welcoming and better by creating a sense of community where everyone feels respected, as this Brene Brown quote on leadership says.
Leaders must either invest a reasonable amount of time attending to fears and feelings or squander an unreasonable amount of time trying to manage ineffective and unproductive behaviour.
Brené Brown
Only when diverse perspectives are included, respected, and valued can we start to get a full picture of the world.
Brené Brown
There is an incredibly important, uncomfortable, and brave discussion that every single leader and every organisation in the world should be having about privilege.
Brené Brown
I define a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes and who has the courage to develop that potential.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Imagine someone who believes in your potential, someone who sees what you can achieve even when you don’t. That’s a leader.
A leader is like a gardener, developing our talents and helping them grow. Seeing beyond our current skills, leaders visualize what we can accomplish.
This quote on leadership by Brene Brown tells us that leadership isn’t just about fancy titles. It’s about taking responsibility for our own growth and supporting others in reaching their goals.
So, find ways to use your talents and skills to make a positive impact. Encourage others and help them discover their own hidden potential. Together, let’s make the world a better place.
A brave leader is someone who says I see you. I hear you. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m going to keep listening and asking questions.
Brené Brown
6 Brené Brown Quotes on Connection
Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
We humans are social creatures. We need connection with others to feel happy and fulfilled. Think of your closest friends and family – they make you feel loved and supported.
These connections aren’t just for fun; they give our lives meaning and purpose. We feel like we belong to something bigger than ourselves when we connect with others, as that’s the core message of this Brene Brown quote on connection message in this
Of course, building strong connections takes work. We need to be open, vulnerable, and willing to put in the effort. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are worth it.
So, make time for the people who matter to you. Invest in your relationships and be open to new connections. You’ll be glad you did!
The dark does not destroy the light; it defines it. It’s our fear of the dark that casts our joy into the shadows.
Brené Brown
You are only free when you realize you belong to no place — you belong to every place — no place at all. The price is high. The reward is great.
Brené Brown
Good friends aren’t afraid of your light. They never blow out your flame and you don’t blow out theirs — even when it’s really bright and it makes you worry about your own flame.
Brené Brown
When you stop caring what people think, you lose your capacity for connection. When you’re defined by it, you lose your capacity for vulnerability.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
We all want to belong, to feel like we fit in. But sometimes, we worry about what others will think. We might try to be someone we’re not just to please them.
But the truth is that connection comes from being ourselves. When we’re authentic and open, we attract people who appreciate us for who we are.
Of course, it’s important to consider others’ perspectives. But don’t let their opinions rule your life. Be true to yourself, and the right people will find you.
In essence, this quote on connection encourages us to be patient and keep working towards finding the balance that feels right for us.
Connection is why we’re here. We are hardwired to connect with others; it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it, there is suffering.
Brené Brown
6 Brene Brown Quotes on Change
The willingness to show up changes us. It makes us a little braver each time.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
Stepping out of your comfort zone, even in small ways, can be a game changer. It’s about showing up for new challenges, speaking out, or trying something unfamiliar, as this Brene Brown quote on change suggests.
With each brave step, we strengthen our courage muscles. The more we use it, the more confident and strong we become.
Facing fears head-on is crucial in this journey. It’s about being present and engaged, even when it’s easier to step back.
Ultimately, embracing these moments of courage is what shapes us. Each challenge we overcome is a step towards growing braver and more self-assured.
Also Read: 53 Eckhart Tolle Quotes on Life, Love, Happiness, letting Go & the Power of Now (Explained)
If you want to make a difference, the next time you see someone being cruel to another human being, take it personally. Take it personally because it is personal.
Brené Brown
True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are.
Brené Brown
Science is not the truth. Science is finding the truth. When science changes its opinion, it didn’t lie to you. It learned more.
Brené Brown
Let go of who you think you are supposed to be; embrace who you are.
Brené Brown
Brief Analysis
We often get caught up in the pursuit of perfection – as the ideal student, friend, or the ultimate success story, yet these pursuits can overshadow our true selves.
This quote on change by Brené Brown guides us to let go of these unrealistic expectations and truly embrace who we are, complete with our strengths and flaws.
Embracing our true selves is not about stopping our growth. Instead, it’s acknowledging and valuing our current place in life’s journey.
So, take a moment to reflect on your unique qualities – your passions, values, and joys. Recognizing and accepting your authentic self is the key to leading a fulfilling life.
You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge.
Brené Brown
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