Vulnerability is not our weakness; it’s our greatest measure of courage.
-- Brene Brown (chapter 1)

Importance: For the author, vulnerability is one of the most important emotional states to which a person might go. It means being present when things are not necessarily going well and dispensing with the armor we frequently wear to hide our emotions. Vulnerability builds connections because it allows for people to share their stories without fear of being judged. As Brown notes, demonstrating vulnerability requires our flaws to be visible to others, which requires courage.

When someone shares their hopes and dreams with us, we are witnessing deep courage and vulnerability. Celebrating their successes is easy, but when disappointment happens, it’s an incredible opportunity for meaningful connection.
-- Brene Brown (chapter 3)

Importance: As demonstrated in the comic, “Making Meaningful Connection,” which shows the story of a businesswoman who gives a presentation that her peers ignore, when personal disappointment is shared with someone who...