One of the most influential figures that I look up to is Brené Brown, research professor of social work at the University of Houston and visiting professor in management at the University of Texas McCombs School of Buisness. In her book, “Braving the Wilderness,” Brown brings to light the challenges many of us face when it comes to prioritizing our personal values and success.
In addition to sprinkling personal anecdotes throughout her book, she incorporates her own incredibly engaging research and observations of others’ experiences walking into “the wilderness.” According to Brown,”the wilderness” is the notion that people should be encouraged to show off their creative capabilities and propel others to do the same, even when they feel scared and unmotivated.
Two concepts Brown studied that stood out to me were leadership and courage. Her book’s advice has truly made an impact on both my personal and academic habits. I have already noticed its positive effects on my connections with friends and family. Conversations have become more engaging as I find myself being more direct in my goals. Brown explains the importance of staying true to yourself, maintaining boundaries independently and with others. She also suggests having difficult conversations by listening to those you might disagree with.
Brown begins her book by discussing the importance of belonging. Her view is supported by a very personal story about how she felt left out by her classmates as an adolescent. While trying out for her middle school’s cheer team, Brown felt the pressure to change her appearance in order to fit in. At the same time, she felt a lack of belonging in her own home – an environment that should be a comforting place for any child. Instead, she describes her home life as being tense due to her parents’ fighting. After completing her studies beyond university, Brown studied the core characteristics of sensitivity and toughness and how valuable these traits are for living through difficult times.
Something that stood out to me from this book was how setting reasonable intentions can make a substantial difference in the long run by building not only confidence but also a great deal of self trust. I am certain many of us have struggled with trying to abide by unreasonably high expectations and I personally relate to this representation of being too hard on myself. Highlighted in Brown’s book is one of her favorite quotes by Maya Angelou: “The price is high. The reward is great.” Following through with set goals requires a lot of discipline and consistency, which is not easy to jump into. Yet we must consider how the end result will be worth it in so many ways. An open-minded approach applies to desirable outcomes for fitness, mental well-being, friendships, academics and overall life balance.
Another subtopic Brown’s “Braving the Wilderness” delves into is about sustaining and adjusting boundaries both on an individual and social level. Boundaries fall under just one of the seven elements of a well-regarded psychological acronym known as “BRAVING,” which Brown presents to her readers. She describes the acronym’s significance more in depth as she explains the characteristics of an independent, solid individual. My favorite part of this acronym is “INTEGRITY,” a core concept which Brown defines as staying true to your own thoughts and values.
Finally, I believe that the lives of college students could be benefited by practicing belonging to ourselves and viewing the world through a critical lens. Brown’s aforementioned struggles with fitting in during her childhood solidify the fact that we don’t belong to others, only to ourselves. While reading, I couldn’t help but consider how amazing it feels to spend time with people who care about my values and are determined to support my goals. We must not change our genuine selves, even when times get difficult and opinions clash. The society in which we live already pushes groups as a part of our identity, and not finding the right people who support our growth can lead to unnecessary problems and drama. Whether or not you find yourself pressured to abide by a certain group’s expectations, or you’re putting too much pressure on yourself, I would highly recommend “Braving the Wilderness” by Brené Brown.
Rating: 5/5
