Navigating AI’s Paradox: The Courage to Lead with Humanity

Today’s leaders are increasingly confronted with a central paradox: the rapid advancement of technology and the enduring human need for connection. This theme was highlighted during Brené Brown’s keynote at Workday Rising 2025, where the New York Times bestselling author emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between humanity and technology. Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston and executive chair of the Center for Daring Leadership at BetterUp, urged leaders to embrace paradoxical thinking to succeed in an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. According to Brown, the future belongs to those who can balance innovation with human-centric values.

Brown highlighted how paradoxical thinking is essential for leadership in the age of AI. She argued that organizations must not take sides in the human-versus-technology debate but rather find ways to unite both to drive growth. Her insights align with current trends in the business world, where 78% of enterprises are currently deploying AI in some capacity, and 75% of Workday customers are utilizing Workday AI capabilities. These figures underscore the growing reliance on AI but also highlight the ongoing challenge of integrating it into human-driven workflows.

A key part of navigating this paradox, Brown explained, involves cultivating essential leadership skills such as situational awareness, transparency, and mission-critical communication. She emphasized that accountability—rooted in courage and vulnerability—is also critical for effective leadership. Brown’s approach challenges traditional notions of leadership that often prioritize certainty and control over adaptability and emotional intelligence. She noted that vulnerability is not a weakness but a foundational element of courage, a perspective that is gaining traction among leaders who are rethinking how to manage in an unpredictable and technologically driven environment.

This shift in leadership philosophy is reflected in the experiences of several financial leaders. A global CFO survey by IQ-EQ found that more than half of CFOs (56%) believe AI is already improving efficiency in areas such as fund performance analysis, predictive analytics, and automated reporting. However, the report also revealed that limited talent and inconsistent data strategies remain barriers to scaling AI initiatives. Despite these challenges, CFOs are increasingly viewing AI as a strategic imperative. For instance, Jill Klindt of Workiva emphasized that investing in secure, practical, and responsible AI is crucial for strengthening stakeholder and investor confidence.

The integration of AI into business operations is not without its complexities. As AI adoption grows, CFOs are also grappling with concerns around cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and workforce transformation. In response, many finance leaders are prioritizing scenario planning and digital modernization to navigate economic uncertainties. The Protiviti 2025 Global Finance Trends Survey revealed that 72% of finance teams are now leveraging AI tools, a significant increase from 34% in 2024. The most common applications include process automation, financial forecasting, and risk management. These developments highlight a broader trend where AI is being positioned not just as a tool for efficiency but as a strategic enabler for long-term business resilience.

In this evolving landscape, the ability to manage paradox is increasingly seen as a core competency for leaders. Brené Brown’s insights, supported by real-world data and business trends, underscore the need for a balanced approach that embraces both technological innovation and human connection. As organizations continue to invest in AI and digital transformation, the success of these initiatives will likely depend on their ability to align these advancements with the values and needs of their people. Leaders who can navigate this dual challenge stand to create more sustainable and adaptive organizations, capable of thriving in an increasingly complex global economy.