All Great Leaders Have Great Courage

18 Oct 2026 · 1 min

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In this brief talk, the speaker reflects on their observations of effective leaders, noting that many lack the high‑profile visions of figures like Richard Branson or Steve Jobs and may not fit traditional notions of charisma. Despite these differences, the speaker asserts that every great leader they have encountered shares one essential quality: courage. The speaker then explores the source of that courage, arguing that it stems from the quality of our relationships. Having at least one person—whether at work or in personal life—who genuinely believes in you and pledges support provides the foundation for courageous action, enabling leaders to achieve remarkable outcomes even when circumstances turn adverse.

Chapters

I've met some great leaders who don't have big Richard Branson, Steve Jobs visions. I have met some great leaders who the traditional definition of charisma, they don't have it. They're quiet, they sit in the corner, you know. But the one characteristic I'm very comfortable saying that every great leader that I've met has is courage. Which then raises the question, where does courage come from? The quality of our relationships. Is what gives us courage. You only need one person. It could be from work or it can be from your personal life. You only need at least one person who says, I believe in you. You got this. And if everything goes sideways, I'll be there with you. If you have that one person that you know is there with you, we have the courage to do amazing things.