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Unlocking the Power of Everyday Courage
Life invites us to practice courage daily, learn how to use it for growth and impact.
Rey Castellanos
February 11, 2024
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Read Time: 4 minutes
I’ve been thinking about courage a lot lately.
We tend to associate courage with grand, dramatic gestures or the heroic feats we see in movies.
But the truth is, courage lives in small, subtle acts each day.
Lately, courage for me has been publishing consistently, even when I feel uncertain or have doubts about my writing.
Life invites us to practice courage daily—in pressing send on an idea we’re uncertain will land well, choosing honest intimacy over safe isolation, or standing up for what we believe in, even if it’s unpopular.
While these subtle brave acts may seem inconsequential, embracing everyday courage has profound effects on how we live and lead.
Table of Contents
The Problem
We all recognize those recurring fork-in-the-road moments…
Do we candidly share our perspective or shy away from potential conflict?
Admit we’re still learning or fake our expertise?
Authentically connect through vulnerability or worry what others may think?
We feel the primal urge to play it safe.
But avoiding emotional risks comes at the cost of stagnation, missed connections and sacrificing fulfillment to minimize discomfort.
Courage is often misunderstood as the absence of fear.
In reality, courage is about recognizing your fears and choosing to forge ahead anyway.
Modern psychology defines courage as emotional—choosing to willingly leave our comfort zone in service of growth or purpose, despite feeling uncertainty or risk.
This reveals that we have countless opportunities to practice courage daily by leaning into vulnerability.
And embracing these small acts of courage helps build emotional resilience, character and human connection.
Why It Matters
The Science
Research shows that courage is not just an innate trait, but a skill that can be developed.1
Brain studies reveal that emotional risks trigger neurological discomfort signals, while acts of courage activate reasoning centers that help us master fear.
Embracing the right amount of discomfort can actually improve our capabilities, whereas too much will shut us down.
This suggests that courage lives between complacency and panic, embracing the right level of challenge while steering clear of recklessness.
Small, deliberate actions to push our boundaries, known as "micro-courage," can help build resilience by forming new neural pathways, gradually diminishing the power of fear.2
According to Brené Brown, a world renowned shame researcher - embracing vulnerability cultivates trust, belonging and collaborative culture—but requires courage because vulnerability feels risky.3
Human connection happens when we reveal our authentic selves.
Everyday courage helps forge these bonds by dismantling masks that promote isolation.
Embracing everyday courage leads to more courage.
Publishing my first newsletter felt daunting. Thoughts like “What if no one likes it?” and What if I look stupid?” crept in.
Despite these fears, I pushed forward anyway and with each subsequent edition, the fear became less intimidating.
By leading with courage, we set a powerful example for those around us, creating a ripple effect that can lead to positive cultural shifts within families, teams, and beyond.
The Personal Impact
We’ve all regretted a moment when we almost connected with a friend or loved one but chose self protection instead. Or a time we retreated from trying something new out of fear of failure.
When we prioritize safety over answering the subtle summons of courage, we inadvertently hinder our potential for growth.
By confronting even the smallest of fears, we gradually nurture our courage, fortifying our capacity for self-expression, enriching our relationships, and setting a compelling example for our loved ones.
Leadership Impact
When leaders consistently practice everyday courage and model vulnerability—whether by openly addressing areas for improvement, expressing minority viewpoints candidly, or courageously navigating tough conversations—it fosters trust and inspiration among their team members.
Research confirms that teams that demonstrate higher levels of everyday courage also see an increase in psychological safety, engagement and innovation.
“Courage is contagious. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better and the world a little braver.”
Take Action
How to Start Building Everyday Courage
Find Purpose in Courage
Redirect your focus towards a greater purpose to ease the path of courage. When stepping beyond my comfort zones, I often reflect, "To be the best coach I can be, I must embody the courage I am asking from others."
Recognize Moments of Retreat
Pay close attention to instances when you feel the instinct to pull back instead of leaning into courage. Then develop a plan for how you’ll respond in the future.
Set Micro-Goals
Incrementally push comfort zones by setting manageable courage goals like: “This week I will ask three clarifying questions in meetings when I’m unsure.”
Acknowledge Courage in Others
Recognize subtle acts of vulnerability in others. Validate courage by acknowledging observed brave moments and impacts: “I admire how you stood up for..” or “I appreciate how you…despite how difficult it was.”
Celebrate Progress
Track small brave acts you’ve taken, note impact on confidence and celebrate your small wins. This will help you build your confidence faster and recognize moments of courage more easily. (Learn about the power of celebrating small wins here.)
Summary
Courage isn't just about heroic feats, it's found in the small acts of daily life. Embracing these little moments regularly builds confidence and resilience, leading to significant growth.
Key Takeaways
Everyday Courage
– Modern psychology defines courage as chosen vulnerability
– Practicing small courageous acts boosts both confidence and resilience
– Leaders who role model vulnerability, inspire courage and connection
Actionable Tips to Build Courage
– Connect to a bigger purpose to help ease the path of courage
– Set incremental micro-goals to expand comfort zone
– Recognize moments of retreat and create a plan for next time
Thought Provoker
As you move forward, ask yourself:
How can I practice courage today?
Remember, courage looks different for each of us. Whether it's facing conflict or embracing vulnerability, wherever you are is alright. Keep practicing and your courage will grow.
With appreciation,
Rey
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References:
Kramer, A., & Zinbarg, R. (2018). Recalling courage: An initial test of a brief writing intervention to activate a ‘courageous mindset’ and courageous behavior. The Journal of Positive Psychology
McGonigal, K. (2015). The Upside of Stress: Why Stress Is Good for You, and How to Get Good at It. Avery
Brown B. Daring Greatly. New York: Avery; 2012.