Brave Work in Uncertain Times

Bravery is not the absence of fear. It’s choosing to do what’s right over what’s comfortable.

Courage is a skill—and it begins with understanding vulnerability. We are living in a season of compounded disruption. The lingering effects of a pandemic, ongoing inequities, and global unrest remind us daily that change is not optional. And while none of us are immune to the tension and discomfort, leaders at every level have a role in creating brave workspaces.

What Does Brave Leadership Look Like?

Senior leaders—your folks need to hear from you. Remaining silent, hoping the elephant in the room goes unnoticed, doesn’t create peace or trust. In fact, neutrality often sends a louder message than words: apathy.

In my research on millennials’ work perceptions, one theme was crystal clear: employees want to know their employer cares—about them as human beings and about the world around them.

Taking time to listen, to really see and hear people, is one of the most impactful forms of social responsibility leaders can offer right now. And it doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a simple, honest question like, “What are you experiencing?” can open the door to insight and trust.

The Skill We Can’t Skip

Systemic reform is a long game. It requires a lot of honest conversations—and skill to navigate them. Too often I see leaders buy into “truth over harmony,” but when it shuts down dialogue, it can contradict integrity.

Here’s the catch: before we ask others to be vulnerable, we have to model it first.

Three Actions to Take Now

Conditions will likely get messier before they get better. But here are three steps leaders can take right now:

1. Invest in brave work. Go beyond book clubs and definitions. Do the deep, titrated personal work required.

2. Listen and create space. Let people be seen and heard. This is how bridges and relationships are built.

3. Take imperfect action. You don’t have to get it right every time, but you do have to do something different. Action gives people hope and permission to move forward.

Brave leadership isn’t about having the perfect words or flawless strategies. It’s about showing up with honesty, listening deeply, and taking steps—however imperfect—toward change.

If this resonates and you’d like to grow brave skills within your team, let’s have a conversation.