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Braving the Wilderness
208 pages, 2019
“True belonging doesn’t require us to change who we are. It requires us to be who we are.” Social scientist Brené Brown, Ph.D., MSW, has sparked a global conversation about the experiences that bring meaning to our lives—experiences of courage, vulnerability, love, belonging, shame, and empathy.
In Braving the Wilderness, Brown redefines what it means to belong in an age of increased polarization truly. With her trademark mix of research, storytelling, and honesty, Brown will again change the cultural conversation while mapping a clear path to true belonging.
Brown argues that we’re experiencing a spiritual crisis of disconnection and introduces four practices of true belonging that challenge everything we believe about ourselves and each other. She writes, “True belonging requires us to believe in and belong to ourselves so fully that we can find sacredness both in being a part of something and standing alone when necessary.
But in a culture that’s rife with perfectionism and pleasing, and with the erosion of civility, it’s easy to stay quiet, hide in our ideological bunkers, or fit in rather than show up as our true selves and brave the wilderness of uncertainty and criticism.
But true belonging is not something we negotiate or accomplish with others; it’s a daily practice that demands integrity and authenticity. It’s a personal commitment that we carry in our hearts.” Brown offers us the clarity and courage we need to find our way back to ourselves and each other. And that path cuts right through the wilderness.
Brown writes, “The wilderness is an untamed, unpredictable place of solitude and searching. It is a place as dangerous as it is breathtaking and as sought after as it is feared. But it turns out to be the place of true belonging and the bravest and most sacred place you will ever stand.”
Brené Brown encourages us to embrace our vulnerability. It's okay to feel scared or uncertain. It's in these moments of discomfort that we truly find ourselves and our strength. So, don't shy away from these feelings, instead, explore them and see what they reveal about you.
In Braving the Wilderness, the author emphasizes that true belonging starts within ourselves. We don't need to fit into a group or conform to societal norms to feel accepted. Instead, we should dig deep into our own values and beliefs, and stay true to them. This is the real path to belonging.
Brené Brown suggests that we should choose courage over comfort. It's easy to stay in our comfort zones, but it's in the wilderness of the unknown where we grow the most. So, take a step into the unknown, it might be scary, but it's definitely worth it.
The book encourages us to speak our truth, even when it's uncomfortable or unpopular. It's important to stand up for what we believe in, even if we stand alone. So, don't be afraid to voice your opinions and beliefs, they are valid and they matter.
Lastly, the book explores the importance of connection. We are social beings and we thrive on connections with others. But remember, true connection is about quality, not quantity. So, take the time to nurture your relationships and find genuine connections.
Quotes 5
Brené Brown's 'Braving the Wilderness' is a guide to finding your sense of belonging and standing strong in it.
Oprah Winfrey - Media executive, Actress'Braving the Wilderness' is a call to courage in the face of adversity, a call to be true to ourselves.
Sheryl Sandberg - Facebook COO, AuthorBrené Brown's 'Braving the Wilderness' is a beacon of light in the darkness, guiding us towards authenticity and whole-hearted living.
Elizabeth Gilbert - Author, Speaker'Braving the Wilderness' is a powerful exploration of the quest for true belonging and the courage to stand alone.
Melinda Gates - Philanthropist, BusinesswomanBrené Brown's 'Braving the Wilderness' is a masterclass in embracing vulnerability and daring greatly.
Tony Robbins - Motivational Speaker, Author