Fearless or Reckless? Learning the Difference
Jan 02, 2026Fearlessness is often celebrated as a leadership virtue. We reward boldness, quick decisions, and the ability to push forward without hesitation. But as Dr. Sylvia Nemmers discovered, fearlessness has a shadow side.
Named one of Iowa’s “Fearless Women,” Sylvia laughs now at how true—and incomplete—that title was. Yes, she had been fearless. She traveled the world. She navigated disability. She walked away from places that hurt her. But she also pushed past warning signs. She ignored exhaustion. She said “yes” when her wellbeing needed a “no.” Fearlessness had become a mask for over-functioning.
Recklessness, she learned, is fearlessness without reflection.
Her healing came through slowing down, listening inward, and recognizing that true courage is measured, not frantic. It’s intentional, not impulsive. It honors limits instead of denying them.
As leaders, we often praise the people who “power through,” but Sylvia’s story invites us to rethink that advice. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is rest. Sometimes the boldest choice is to stop.
Weekly practice: Identify one place where your drive might be crossing into overextension. Ask: Is this courage—or is this avoidance wearing bravery’s clothes?
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