Courage
Courage is the ability to take meaningful action despite fear, risk or uncertainty.
Definition
Courage does not mean the absence of fear or impulsive risk. It combines awareness of the threat with the choice of action consistent with values. In practice, it is often on a small scale: an honest conversation, a decision, admitting a mistake or entering into a change that cannot be fully controlled.
Key ideas
- Action despite fear
- Relationship with values
- Realistic risk assessment
Practice and life
Pick one conversation or decision you've been avoiding and take the smallest first step within 24 hours.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to confuse courage with bravado. The second mistake is to wait until the fear completely disappears before taking action.
> Courage allows you not to live your entire life in fear.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What is the value behind this action?
- What am I afraid of and what is the real risk?
- What small act of courage is possible today?