Return to site

Tips on finding courage

Dr Elizma van der Smit. January 2018

· Life Skills

This report includes powerful tips related to Finding Courage.

It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information.

TOP TIPS


Many things in life make us fearful. We fear losing our jobs or getting chronically ill. We fear not being able to make enough to pay the bills. Sometimes, we think our fears are irrational. When this happens, you need to learn how to find the courage to help you deal with life situations.
 

  1. Listen to Your Own Voice
    Plenty of people will tell you what they think and what you should do. The trouble is, none of these people have to live with the consequences of your decisions. Discover what it is that you want and simply let others know that is your decision. This can take courage, especially when dealing with strong-minded individuals who think they know what is best for you, better than you do.
     
  2. Get Outside Your Comfort Zone
    Although this phrase has been overused, it is relevant when trying to find courage. The Grateful Dead wrote a song called Uncle John’s Band. One line in the song that people should heed is, “When life looks like easy street, there is danger at your door.” If people get too comfortable in their current situation, they won’t be ready when a change occurs. Try to look for ways to be less comfortable.
     
  3. Heighten Your Ability to Change
    Change is not easy for many to deal with. However, it is something we all will repeatedly face, throughout our lives. When you have a mindset to be more accepting of change, you will naturally be able to deal with it when it happens.
     
  4. Envision Your New Circumstance
    Our reality often reflects our thinking. Therefore, if you lack the courage to take on a new stage of your life, try envisioning how that new stage will be. Continue this until it becomes second nature. Live as if it is already happening and it will likely happen much quicker for you. It will be a natural way for you to gain courage.
     
  5. Have the Courage to Be Yourself
    People put on fronts when they face difficult situations. They are not usually true to themselves and this can lead them astray when dealing with those situations. Being true to who you are will lead you to better choices. No one can call you fake or phony when you do this.
     
  6. Keep Yourself Constantly Learning
    It’s difficult for you to have courage when you are not knowledgeable. For instance, if you want that promotion at work, consider taking on the responsibilities before given the title, and learn everything you can about the job. This may require some sacrifices, like spending time on the weekend to learn new subjects, etc. But, the more you take on the role of the higher position, the easier it will be for others to accept you in that role, especially your manager.

ACTIONABLE STEPS

1. List your fears. Everyone has fears so go ahead and list out yours. When you see the list, you can evaluate why you feel that way and take corrective steps. Keep this list with you and update it anytime you encounter a fear.

2. Volunteer for a leadership role. One of the scariest positions to take on is one of leadership, especially if you have never done it before. People will look to you for the answers or at least the guidance. It’s hard to take on this role without courage which you will gain over time.

3. Face one of your biggest fears. As an example, suppose you are afraid to fly. Book a flight to a place you’ve always wanted to visit. When you have a reward associated with fear, i.e., the place you have been dreaming

FURTHER READING
 

Daring Greatly: 

broken image

The Untethered Soul:

broken image

Rising Strong:

broken image

When Breath Becomes Air:

broken image

The Places that Scare You: A Guide to Fearlessness in Difficult Times:

broken image

This post is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered therapy. This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental Health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.

This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.