Between theory and practice is anxiety.
It’s comfortable learning about riding a bike, even exciting. But, getting on the seat for the first time takes courage.
I asked several leaders, “How does one overcome anxiety and get on the bike?”
Where courage comes from:
#1. Discomfort. What are you missing?
Christina wrote, “My daughter was a late rider – she was terrified of falling. But once she was the only one of her friends not riding, she got incredibly uncomfortable – felt left out and embarrassed.”
#2. Values. Do you care?
Beth put it this way, “What do I want my story to be?”
#3. Benefit. Is it worth it?
Mark wrote, “You don’t learn to ride a bike because learning is fun. You learn to ride a bike because you want to go flying down a hill. The reward is worth facing the fear.”
Abe echoed Mark’s comment, “Connect development to the benefit it will bring.”
#4. Self-perception. Are you able?
Courage grows when you’re convinced you can learn, improve, and make progress.
#5. Community. Who will help?
Tim responded, “With encouragement from others.” (Your mom or dad saying you can do it, I have you, I won’t let you fall.)
#6. Humility. Are you willing to look foolish?
Bill wrote, “What jumped out to me is getting courage to say I’m sorry.”
#7. Action. What imperfect step are you prepared to take right now?
Ashley wrote, “For me, anxiety tends to fade into the background during that putting-into-practice-phase,” because I’m focused on doing.”
Bolster courage in others:
Theory is easy. Everything’s great until you put your feet on the pedals for the first time. You can’t force someone to get on a bike, but you can make it easier.
Abe suggests, “Practice in a safe environment, one step at a time.”
Where does courage come from?
How might leaders instill courage in others?
Bonus material:
How to Find and Practice Courage (HBR)
7 Ways to Boost Your Emotional Courage (Psychology Today)
How to Boost Your Courage: 8 Really Effective Tips (Inc)