Let’s Get Real About Money & Fear
A few years ago, I found myself staring at a job offer that paid less than I deserved, but I was too scared to negotiate.
- What if they withdrew the offer?
- What if I sounded greedy?
- What if I wasn’t worth more?
Fear kept me stuck—just like it keeps so many people from taking bold financial moves. But then, I read Daring Greatly by Brené Brown, and something clicked:
The biggest financial risks aren’t the ones we take—they’re the ones we avoid.
Brené Brown, a research professor and viral TED Talk speaker, teaches that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s power. And when it comes to money? That means:
- Asking for that raise.
- Starting that business.
- Investing in opportunities that scare you.
The truth is, the wealthiest and most successful people didn’t play it safe—they took calculated risks. Let’s break down how Daring Greatly can reframe your financial mindset so you can start making bold, life-changing money moves.
🚀 Lesson 1: Perfection is a Wealth Killer—Take the Leap Anyway
Ever told yourself “I’ll start investing when I know more” or “I’ll launch my side hustle when the time is right”?
Yeah… I used to do that too.
Brené Brown calls this “perfectionism paralysis”—where fear of making mistakes keeps us from taking action. But here’s the truth:
You don’t need to know everything to start—you need to start to know anything.
💡 Financial Takeaway:
- You don’t need a perfect plan to invest—just get started.
- Your business idea doesn’t need to be flawless—test it out.
- Waiting until you’re 100% sure is a guaranteed way to stay broke.
🔥 Real-Life Example:
A friend of mine waited two years before investing because he wanted to “research everything.” Meanwhile, I started investing small amounts and learned as I went. Two years later, he was still stuck—while my investments had grown.
Moral of the story? Start before you’re ready.
🎯 Lesson 2: Fear of Failure is More Costly Than Failure Itself
Let’s be real—no one likes to lose money.
But what if I told you that avoiding risks actually costs you more in the long run?
Brené Brown explains that failure isn’t what holds us back—our fear of failure is. In finances, that means:
- Not investing out of fear of losses.
- Not starting a business because it “might” fail.
- Not negotiating your salary because you’re afraid of rejection.
💡 Financial Takeaway:
- Instead of thinking “I don’t want to lose money”, think “What’s the cost of not taking this opportunity?”
- Every wealthy person failed multiple times before succeeding.
- Your biggest financial regret won’t be failing—it’ll be not trying.
🔥 Example: The Cost of Playing it Safe
- If you avoid investing, you’re losing money to inflation every year.
- If you never ask for a raise, you’re leaving thousands of dollars on the table.
- If you don’t start your side hustle, you’re missing out on potential financial freedom.
The lesson? The biggest risk isn’t failure—it’s inaction.
💸 Lesson 3: Stop Comparing Your Money to Others
Ever scrolled through Instagram and felt like you’re behind in life?
- Your friend just bought a house.
- Some influencer is flexing a luxury vacation.
- Someone you know drives a car you can’t afford.
Brené Brown warns that comparison is the enemy of happiness—and in money, it’s a trap that keeps us feeling “behind.”
But here’s what you don’t see:
- That new car? Might be bought with debt.
- That luxury vacation? Could be maxing out credit cards.
- That perfect-looking financial life? Might not be so perfect.
💡 Financial Takeaway:
- Focus on YOUR financial journey.
- Avoid lifestyle inflation—wealth isn’t about spending, it’s about growing assets.
- Your financial success is measured by progress, not comparison.
The next time you feel behind, ask yourself: Am I better off financially than I was a year ago? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.
💰 Lesson 4: Have the Courage to Ask for More
Want to make more money? You need to start asking for what you deserve—even if it’s uncomfortable.
Brené Brown teaches that courageous conversations lead to breakthroughs. In finance, this means:
- Negotiating your salary instead of accepting the first offer.
- Setting higher rates for your work.
- Asking for financial support or partnerships without hesitation.
🔥 Real-Life Example: My First Salary Negotiation
I almost didn’t negotiate my first job offer because I was afraid they’d say no. But at the last minute, I decided to ask.
They immediately increased the offer by 20%.
All I had to do was speak up.
💡 Financial Takeaway:
- You don’t get paid what you’re worth—you get paid what you negotiate.
- The worst they can say is no. The best? You walk away with more money.
- Your wealth grows not just by working hard, but by knowing your value.
🚀 How to Apply Daring Greatly to Your Money
Now that you know the power of vulnerability in finances, here’s your next move:
✅ Start Before You Feel Ready—whether it’s investing, saving, or negotiating.
✅ Reframe Failure as Learning—every financial mistake is a stepping stone.
✅ Stop Hiding From Your Money—face your numbers, track your growth.
✅ Ask for What You Deserve—whether it’s a raise, better rates, or more opportunities.
✅ Define YOUR Wealth, Not Social Media’s Version—rich isn’t flashy, it’s financial freedom.
🎤 Now It’s Your Turn
I’ll leave you with this question:
👉 What’s one financial risk you’ve been avoiding? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your story!
If this helped you rethink your money mindset, share it with a friend who needs it.
Remember: You don’t have to be fearless to build wealth. You just have to dare greatly.
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