Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston, where she holds the Huffington Foundation Endowed Chair at the Graduate College of Social Work. She is the author of six #1 New York Times bestsellers and the host of two award-winning podcasts.
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The big takeaway
Brené Brown argues that true success—whether at work or at home—depends less on bravado and more on finding “strong ground”: a calm nervous system, clear values, and the courage to live them. Drawing on personal stories and organizational work, she shows how practices like above/below-the-line awareness, operationalized values, and paradoxical thinking help us move through fear without being ruled by it.
Finding strong ground: the art of calm strength in chaotic times
Key takeaways:
Grounded confidence beats bravado: Real success comes from strong inner grounding, not bluster or constant busyness. Brené calls this “finding your strong ground” rather than building on fear or dysfunction.
Learn to manage your nervous system: Having sovereignty over your emotional state is a true superpower, at work and at home. It’s what allows you to respond with steadiness instead of reactivity.
Values must be lived, not just named: Identifying your core values is only the beginning—real growth comes from weaving them into daily behaviors and holding yourself accountable.
Paradox is an elite skill: Navigating life’s contradictions—freedom vs. discipline, belonging vs. individuality—is a rare and valuable form of wisdom that fuels empathy, resilience, and innovation.
5 practical ways to build your strong ground:
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