How to Be a Better Leader Using Small Brave Moves
When we think of bravery, we often envision grandiose acts of heroism—capes fluttering in the wind, heroes swooping in to save the day. Our minds conjure images of firefighters, military personnel, or doctors in crisis mode. This larger-than-life concept of bravery can feel unattainable for those of us leading in the corporate world. But what if bravery wasn’t about the big epic moments? What if it was about small, intentional actions that, over time, could transform your leadership and your life?
Redefining Bravery in Leadership
Bravery isn’t a one-time act reserved for extraordinary circumstances; it’s a skill we can cultivate and practice daily. In my work with leaders, I’ve found that the biggest barrier they face is often a lack of bravery. Leadership development typically focuses on tools like giving feedback, telling a story, or delivering a compelling presentation. While these tools are crucial, they fall short if you’re not brave enough to use them effectively.
The Power of Small Brave Moves
Bravery in leadership doesn’t require a cape. It’s about making small, brave moves consistently. These small actions, compounded over time, create a competitive advantage and foster authentic, courageous leadership. Here’s how you can start integrating small brave moves into your leadership style:
1. Lead as Your Authentic Self
Authenticity is the foundation of brave leadership. Show up as your true self, even when it’s uncomfortable. This vulnerability fosters trust and sets the stage for open, honest communication.
2. Practice Straight Talk
Clear, direct communication is a hallmark of brave leadership. Avoid sugarcoating or dodging difficult conversations. Address issues head-on with respect and empathy.
3. Embrace Failure
Slips, trips, and falls are unavoidable in life and in leadership. Reframe failure as a learning opportunity. Encourage your team to take risks and support them when things don’t go as planned. Your response to failure sets the tone for how your team handles setbacks.
4. Build a Supportive Network
Surround yourself with people who encourage bravery. Lean on your circle for support, advice, and perspective. A strong support system makes it easier to take brave actions.
5. Be There for Others
Show up for your team and peers. Being present and supportive in times of need strengthens relationships and fosters a culture of bravery.
6. Be Intentional
Make deliberate, thoughtful decisions. Brave leaders are proactive rather than reactive. Think strategically about your actions and their impact.
7. Cultivate Curiosity
Stay curious and open-minded. Ask questions, seek new perspectives, and be willing to change your mind. Curiosity drives innovation and courageous problem-solving.
8. Embrace Uncertainty
Leadership often involves navigating uncertainty. Embrace it as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat. Be adaptable and resilient in the face of change.
9. Be Hope Driven
Lead with optimism and a vision for a better future. Inspire your team with a hopeful outlook, even during challenging times. Hope fuels bravery and perseverance.
Building Bravery Through Practice
Building bravery is an ongoing journey. You will need to get your butterflies in formation and practice these moves over and over. You will fail. You will get back up, and you will try again. No book or person (not even your loved ones) can make you excel, only you can.
By consistently practicing Small Brave Moves, you’ll develop the mindsets, behaviors, and habits that empower and enable you to be your bravest and most authentic self. Leadership isn’t just about directing others; it’s about leading as your bravest self and inspiring others to do the same.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations. But by embracing Small Brave Moves, you can transform your leadership. Shift the spotlight from just leading to being a braver leader. As you cultivate bravery, you’ll find that your influence grows, your accomplishments increase, and your fears diminish.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the journey, and let’s make bravery an everyday practice. Together, we’ll turn tough situations into opportunities for growth and make transformative 'Butterfly Moments' an everyday occurrence. Remember, you don’t need a cape to be a brave leader—just a commitment to making small, intentional brave moves every day.
If you want to dive deeper into how you can use Small Brave Moves in your daily life to achieve life-changing leadership check out my best selling book here: