Many of us fall back on bravery during tough times – though what does this actually mean? Some believe that bravery is the absence of fear, yet this couldn’t be farther from the truth. We all feel afraid sometimes and being brave is about choosing to take action anyway.
Being brave also doesn’t have to be about making huge gestures for all to see or changing the world. There are endless examples of everyday bravery that many of us overlook; from expressing our true feelings to someone we care about despite feeling vulnerable, to trying a new activity that takes us outside of our comfort zone.
Bravery isn’t linear either – there may be times when we feel stronger and more capable of facing our fears. This is largely because bravery is like a muscle. The more we flex it and do things that make us uncomfortable yet deliver rewards, the more empowered we can feel to take other courageous actions. And if we stop flexing this muscle, it’s easy to lose confidence…
“What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?”
Why confidence can dip later in life
It’s not uncommon for people to experience a dip in confidence as they move into midlife and beyond, due to things like career plateaus, physical changes, regret over past decisions, and shifting relationships.
Dips in confidence can lend way to self-limiting beliefs, which can force people to sink further into their comfort zones, and become reluctant to leave again. When this happens, they may shy away from new opportunities – including chances to speak up – leading them to feel stuck, bored, unhappy, or invisible.
The power of recognising past bravery
While this might sound gloomy, there are numerous ways to overcome self-doubt and reclaim your power. And this starts with recognsing that you’re already more courageous than you might think.
Consider what you’ve overcome to be sitting here reading this today…break ups? Loneliness? Career setbacks? Ageism? It’s not easy for many of us to look back at the difficult encounters we’ve had thus far, and often it feels easier not to. But sometimes it can help to take stock of our progress to find the power to drive forward once again.
Consider writing down at least three key moments where you could have run away from a situation but instead took action(s) that felt scary. The chances are, these examples will be three of thousands…
The benefits of being courageous
One of the reasons we may avoid taking courageous steps is because it feels uncomfortable. It can feel safer and easier to take no actions at all, even if this means missing out on exciting opportunities or staying stuck in the same place.
But, if we can dig deep, and take steps outside of our comfort zone, however small, the rewards can be huge. We’ve listed some of the key benefits below.
You’ll feel proud
It’s important to know that we can do difficult things, even when we think we can’t. Not only does this build confidence and self esteem but it also helps us to continue growing as individuals; pushing the boundaries of our capabilities.
Each act of bravery can leave us feeling accomplished and proud, strengthening the positive relationship that we have with ourselves.
You could inspire others
If you’ve ever seen a brave act and felt compelled to do something similar, then you’ll be well aware of the powerful effects bravery can have on others. And it can feel wonderful to know that other people are keen to follow in your footsteps.
It can be incredibly liberating
Taking brave steps can leave you feeling powerful – and offer a sense of relief. The difficult thing that was staring us in the face is now done, and the sky’s the limit!
It can help you take steps towards a better future
Many of us like to feel as though we’re continually moving forward in life, working towards a better future – and bravery is often key here. Taking steps into new territory can be a daunting yet necessary part of growth.
Each act of bravery can make the next one feel easier
If we picture each act of bravery as stepping stones in a longer path, it’s easy to see how we can build confidence and momentum with each one we reach.
How to feel more courageous in 5 steps
The chances are, you’re already more courageous than you think. But, if bravery is something you struggle to feel, and you’d like to become stronger and more empowered, the following steps will hopefully help.
1. Build optimism
Many people assume optimism is something we either have or don’t – but, like bravery, it’s a skill we can work on and, according to research, the two go hand in hand. The more optimistic we are about future outcomes, the more likely we are to take actions that move us forward.
Though, it’s important to note that optimism isn’t a replacement for realism – instead it’s about finding small positives and seeing new opportunities, even when things get tough.
Gratitude journaling, spending time with positive people, and acknowledging negative thoughts are examples of ways you can start building optimism. For more tips, check out our article; How to learn the skill of optimism.
2. Work on your confidence
Plenty of us have lacked confidence at one time or another, which can lend way to self-limiting thoughts. But, the good news is, like optimism, confidence is something that we can work on boosting. For example, by avoiding comparisons with others, learning to trust your instincts, and offering to help others.
Our articles, 16 ways to improve your confidence and self-esteem and How to overcome imposter syndrome, have plenty of tips to help you increase self belief.
3. Accept responsibility
Accepting responsibility is a good way to challenge yourself to be brave because it requires you to confront your actions and their consequences head-on.
When you take responsibility, you can’t hide behind excuses or blame others. Instead, you’re forced to accept the reality of the situation, acknowledge your role in it, and find the courage to move forward. This process can be daunting, but it also presents an opportunity for personal growth and development.
Embracing responsibility shows your willingness to be accountable, which can build trust and respect from others, and help you become more honest, resilient, and brave.
4. Surround yourself with people who inspire you
Surrounding yourself with people who inspire you encourages bravery because their example and support can help you push beyond your comfort zone. When you’re around individuals who’ve overcome their own fears and challenges, it can motivate you to do the same, and help you recognise your own inner strength and potential.
Being in the company of brave people can also create an environment where you feel safe to take risks and try new things. Their positivity and belief in your abilities can give you the confidence to be more daring and confront your own fears – and this reinforcing cycle can boost your bravery over time.
To get inspired, you might want to check out some of our real-life stories about over 50s who’ve embraced change. Examples include, Phil, who teaches people to DJ later in life; Frances, who became a documentary filmmaker at 60; and David who became a triathlete.
5. Try to see courage as something that needs to be practised
Courage isn’t a static trait, but rather something that needs to be actively practised and developed. Just like any other skill, the more you exercise courage, the stronger and more resilient it becomes.
Each time you face a fear or take on a challenging task, you’re building up your ‘courage muscles’. It’s important to see courage as a practice, not a fixed quality that you either have or don’t. By approaching life with a growth mindset and a willingness to take small, intentional steps, you can systematically increase bravery.
For ideas on how to start practising, check out our article; 16 ways to step outside of your comfort zone.
Final thoughts…
As you’ll know, life is full of unexpected twists and turns; and the more willing we can be to face challenges, threats, and difficulties head on, the braver and more resilient we’ll become. To be courageous is essentially about feeling the fear and taking action anyway.
There are numerous benefits to this, including feeling proud of yourself, inspiring others, and taking steps towards a better future. And the even better news is that, even if you don’t feel courageous now, there are things you can do to change this, such as surrounding yourself with people who inspire you and working on your confidence.
As William Faulkner once said: “You cannot swim for new horizons until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” And we very much agree!
For further reading, check out our article; 8 ways to empower yourself everyday.
Do you feel courageous? Are you working on feeling more courageous? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.