BOOK REVIEW
You are invited … … to a courageous conversation
Book : Courageous Invitations Author : Dr Jefferson Yu-Jen Chen and Anne Duggan Review by : Elvira Wood
Have you ever received an invitation you just could not refuse ? Maybe it was an event , a holiday or a chance to meet someone you admire . We eagerly accept those conversations .
We also invite others to discussions on topics we enjoy or anticipate will be positive . But how often do we invite a friend , colleague or family member into a conversation we know will be challenging ?
In Courageous Invitations , Dr . Jefferson Yu-Jen Chen and Anne Duggan explore how leaders can embrace meaningful , transformative conversations . They emphasise courage , vulnerability and authenticity in leadership and communication , offering practical tools to deepen connections and safe spaces for growth .
This book is not just about traditional invitations like “ Could we meet ?” - it is about inviting others into conversations that challenge the status quo . The authors argue that such invitations drive growth , innovation and collaboration .
Through personal stories and case studies , Chen and Duggan illustrate how leaders can build a culture of openness and trust by taking risks and showing authenticity . The book ’ s practical approach includes actionable advice , tools and frameworks for both personal and professional growth . Though worksheets are available online , they were not accessible at the time of writing .
Each chapter ’ s thoughtprovoking questions encourage readers to apply the principles in their own lives . The engaging writing blends research , insights and anecdotes , making complex concepts easy to grasp . While the book focuses on professional settings , its lessons apply to personal relationships and communitybuilding .
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Will you accept our invitation to disrupt yourself ?
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Courageous Invitations is a powerful , timely read for anyone seeking deeper relationships and stronger leadership . It challenges readers to rethink communication and create spaces where others feel safe to share , learn and grow .
So , here is our invitation to you : Be courageous . Step into difficult conversations and embrace transformation . And if you are unsure where to start , Courageous Invitations provides the guidance and tools to help you build meaningful connections .
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