Be dangerous - in the right way

By Kerryn Vaughan

19th May 2026

You don’t need a title to be dangerous (in the best way)

There’s a sneaky little belief in a lot of workplaces: “I’m not the leader… so I can’t really do much.” It sounds harmless, but it isn’t. It keeps capable people small.

There’s another little belief, and that is that leadership must have a title. Total rubbish!

Leadership is a ripple that can make or break those around you. It’s about how you respond, how you lead by example, what you avoid, and what you’re willing to name. You don’t need a title to influence a culture.

I’ve seen so many teams stuck here. Good people fuelled with passion, but believe it’s not their place to speak up. Then one person asks the question everyone’s thinking. And suddenly, courage is contagious.

This kind of leadership is what we need right now. Individuals, teams and organisations are suffocating with overwhelm. If you’re thinking, “That’s not my place…”, it is. Because doing nothing also sets an example.

Be the one who:

• asks the real question

• acknowledges someone

• addresses what others avoid

• chooses honesty over comfort

That’s leadership, and it’s available to you right now no matter what your role or title is.

Never underestimate the impact you already have.

Go ahead - be dangerous in the very best way… I dare you!

Kerryn Vaughan is the author of ‘Magnificent Kids!’ and ‘Get Off The Bench!’, co-founder of Girls With Hammers, and host of Get Off The Bench Podcast.

Kerryn is a leadership facilitator and the founder of Confident Leaders Program and The Confidence CAP, as well as an accredited DISC ADVANCED® consultant.