Leaving the family home to be with the man I love.
Telling my parents about what I want for my life (even if it differs from what they want for me).
Setting up my business and leaving the comfort of my day job.
Changing to a new role at work even if I have no experience in it.
Giving birth naturally without pain medication.
Forgiving my husband.
Separating from my husband.
Accepting a leadership position even when I felt I wasn’t ready.
Starting a family.
Skydiving.
Leaving a job that made me unhappy.
Admitting that I made a mistake.
Sending out my book proposal.
These are some of the answers I have gotten from my clients when I asked them: “What’s the most courageous thing you’ve ever done?” (I wish I had done some of those things.)
The common theme? You do it not because you feel brave and it’s comfortable and it’s the next logical step. You do it despite the fear. You do it even if it’s the most uncomfortable, the most emotionally-charged, the most painful action you will ever take. You do it even if you’re not ready. You do it even if the timing isn’t perfect (and might never be). You do it because you want to see if you can. You do it because the life you want lies on the other side of the difficult conversation, the departure from your home or job, the work challenge, the unhappiness you’re feeling because of your current situation.
And sometimes the most courageous thing to do is to ask for help. To be humble enough to realize that you can’t figure it out on your own. To be strong enough to speak out and ask for what you need. To be brave enough to say, “I don’t know.”
Asking for help can come in the form of prayer. Or your mom’s unconditional embrace. Or your best friend’s wise advice. Or even having a session with coach who wants to listen and explore the possibilities that lie beyond the stories you tell about yourself and your life.
How about you? What’s the most courageous thing you’ve ever done?
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This is an excerpt from this month’s Joyful Little Note, my newsletter that will add some inspiration and mindfulness to your month or even just your day. Subscribe by filling up the form below.
