“Clear communication is kind. Unclear communication is unkind.” — Brené Brown
About the Quote: Brené Brown (b. 1965) is an American research professor, author, and speaker known for her work on vulnerability, courage, and empathy. Her TED talk on “The Power of Vulnerability” is one of the most viewed of all time, and her books explore the intersection of human connection and leadership.
Why Clarity Equals Kindness in Business
Grow your business with proven techniques 
How do you find how many items you need to sell. 
So many people chasing you. How do you manage them with ease? 
You have big plans for your business. How do you see the effect of these plans with out ACTUALLY changing your business? 
So many products, so little time. Learn how to pick the best one for you. 
Learn how to fit your niche like a glove. 
Learn how to build a budget
In the realm of human resources, I’ve seen careers derailed and teams fractured simply because communication was unclear. Solopreneurs face the same risk with clients and collaborators. Many shy away from being direct, thinking it might seem harsh. But as Brené Brown explains, clarity is kindness. When you’re vague, you create confusion, frustration, and wasted energy. That’s far more unkind in the long run.
The Hidden Costs of Unclear Communication
Imagine a solopreneur telling a client, “I’ll get this to you soon.” What does “soon” mean? Tomorrow? Next week? To the solopreneur, it’s flexible; to the client, it may signal neglect. These gaps create unnecessary tension. Similarly, unclear boundaries with collaborators — “do your best” instead of outlining exact expectations — often lead to disappointment.
Why Solopreneurs Avoid Clarity
Often, it’s fear. Fear of offending a client, of losing business, or of seeming difficult. But the irony is that unclear communication backfires more often than honesty does. A client would rather hear “I can’t do this by Friday, but I can deliver Monday” than endure silence and unmet expectations.
Building a Culture of Clarity
Solopreneurs can establish a brand identity around clear, direct communication. That means:
- Writing detailed contracts that specify scope and timelines.
- Outlining revision limits upfront.
- Giving precise feedback instead of vague approvals.
This reduces conflict, preserves relationships, and saves emotional energy for both you and your clients.
The Emotional Impact of Clarity
Clients and collaborators feel respected when communication is straightforward. They know where they stand and what to expect. This reduces anxiety — a gift in itself. And for solopreneurs, clarity means fewer awkward conversations, fewer misinterpretations, and stronger long-term trust.
Conclusion
Brené Brown’s words are a powerful reminder: clear communication is not harsh, it’s kind. Solopreneurs who embrace clarity in contracts, feedback, and expectations show respect for clients and collaborators, and in turn, earn deeper trust and smoother partnerships.
