Brené Brown BRAVING Trust Audit
Evaluate professional and personal dynamics using the Brené Brown trust audit framework. This 25 minute process clarifies boundaries, accountability, and mutual respect.
5 time blocks, 25 minutes in total.
Time blocks
- Target Relationship Selection: 4 min
Select one professional or personal dynamic to evaluate - Boundaries and Reliability Check: 6 min
Check if clear limits were set and promises kept - Accountability and Vault Assessment: 5 min
Note ownership of mistakes and respect for confidentiality - Integrity, Nonjudgment, and Generosity: 6 min
Review alignment with values and generous assumptions - Boundary Action Plan: 4 min
Write one concrete boundary or conversation needed next
About this routine
Brené Brown trust audit principles stem from her research on vulnerability and leadership. The acronym BRAVING breaks trust down into seven concrete behaviors: Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Vault, Integrity, Nonjudgment, and Generosity. Evaluating dynamics against these specific behaviors replaces vague discomfort with clear data.
In her book Dare to Lead, Brown highlights that trust is built in small moments rather than grand gestures. When a work partnership or personal relationship feels strained, running through each element pinpoints exactly where communication broke down.
This 25 minute reflection translates theoretical trust into actionable boundary setting. By identifying missing expectations and confidentiality slips, you can prepare clear conversations and rebuild trust systematically.
Why this routine works
- Identifies exact causes of interpersonal friction
- Replaces vague emotional reactions with objective behavior checks
- Clarifies where personal or professional boundaries need tightening
FAQ
What is the Brené Brown trust audit?
It is a self-reflection tool based on the seven elements of trust known as BRAVING: Boundaries, Reliability, Accountability, Vault, Integrity, Nonjudgment, and Generosity.
How long does the BRAVING trust audit take?
The entire structured evaluation takes 25 minutes across five focused steps.
What does the Vault mean in Brené Brown's framework?
The Vault refers to confidentiality. It measures whether you and others keep private information safe rather than sharing gossip or stories that are not yours to tell.
Sources
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Updated August 2026
Compiled from public sources and reviewed before publishing.