Personal courage

Igniting the will

Have you ever looked at someone and thought: Wow! that took courage. I have witnessed the multifaceted and fluid nature of courage in people close to me. They forged ahead in situations fraught with social, moral, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and physical adversity as described in the picture.

Why do they act with courage?

They live by strong ethics and principles. They overcome the fear of failure with a clear goal and a deep knowing that the benefits will be worth it.

How do they act with courage?

They don’t just dream and have a vision; they plan, they act, and ask for help when needed. They believe in their “why”: their mission and what inspires them. They do not worry about what others will think. With effort and focus, they leap out of their comfort zone and try. They are kind to themselves and do not waste energy on self-doubt. They check facts and are decisive. They find ways to be cheerful, creative, supportive, and thankful.

These are the people I love and respect. When I am in doubt, they are the ones who remind me to stay true to myself.

I vanquished the fear of ridicule about my “not good enough English” by writing these articles.

Here’s to small courageous acts — each one a stepping stone to a worthy habit or goal!