Courage Isn’t a Feeling
Fear doesn’t say, “Be a coward.”
It says, “Be careful.”
You need more information. The timing isn’t right. People might disapprove.
Fear’s Strategy
Fear says save yourself.
It doesn’t ask:
- What needs to be done?
- What serves the team?
- What does the mission require?
It does ask:
- What if I look stupid?
- What if they don’t like me?
- What if I fail?
Fear concerns self. Courage serves others.
5 Acts of Courage
Ryan Holiday argues that courage is action when fear invites retreat.
#1. Name the fear.
Vague fear expands. Specific fear shrinks.
Ask, “What exactly am I afraid will happen?”
#2. Count the wolves.
Imagination multiplies enemies. Critics seem more numerous before you count them.
#3. Focus on what’s in front of you.
You don’t need courage for next year. You need courage for the next conversation.
#4. Act before confidence arrives.
Confidence follows action.
- Speak up.
- Make the call.
- Set the boundary.
- Ask the question.
#5. Serve something bigger than yourself.
Self-protection shrinks courage. Purpose expands it.
The question isn’t, “How do I stay safe?”
Ask, “What does the mission require of me now?”
Courage isn’t feeling brave.
Courage is answering the call while fear is on the line.
Reflection: What conversation, decision, or action are you postponing because fear feels like wisdom?
Where does your courage come from?
12 Courageous Acts of Leadership – Leadership Freak
This post is inspired by Courage is Calling by Ryan Holiday.
Thanks, Dan, a great post. We can become quite protective (of ourselves). Somewhere in the mix is conviction, the belief that this is our mission to engage, and answering it satisfies something deep inside ourselves.
I like your “what does the mission require of me now?”
Thanks, Ken. I find that it’s easier for others to exercise courage while I watch. The first step is most important. Perhaps it’s like the “one pushup rule.” Just get down there and do one.