The energy between people when they feel seen, valued, and understood. Connection is the root of what makes us human, and we are all driven to connect. True connection fosters belonging and makes people worthy and seen.

The title of the book is taken from a quote by President Theodore Roosevelt, where he argues that true greatness doesn’t come from triumph or succeeding, but from trying. The person who “dares greatly” and moves through life with courage is the true hero. Brown uses this quote to show that external factors can’t define us; we have to live openly and bravely and this will bring us greatness.

Shame is the belief that we are not enough. It is a painful feeling that we are flawed and that our flaws define who we are. The focus is on self, rather than behaviors. From a shame-based mindset, “I did something bad” becomes reframed as “I am a bad person.” Shame thrives in secrecy and when we bring our fears into the open, shame withers.