Re-Defining Courage
I read about courage.
When most of us think about being courageous, we often think about great exertion of effort. Pushing through, working harder, holding it all together and keeping at it even when we’re exhausted. Relatable? I didn't think this was courage, I just thought this was what it took to be successful. And then that took me down a meandering path to define success, and recognize I had adopted one that wasn’t aligned with my own heart. I digress. If you’ve read enough of my whispers, you know I can tend that way. Where were we? Oh yes, being courageous. Perhaps, in today’s chaotic, screaming loud, uncertain and opinionated world, courage can be something quieter and far more sustainable. Instead of overriding yourself, courage is the invitation to come back to the heart of you.
It’s in the pause in order to choose your response instead of your reaction.
Saying “I need a moment” instead of pushing though overwhelm.
Trusting your body when it is whispering it needs rest, even when your mind says “keep going.”
Choosing to take a new class, have a conversation or make a commitment because it feels right, not because you think you should.
Being courageous is less about forcing outcomes and more about moving in a direction that aligns with your deeper knowing. Quite often this happens with one small decision, one clear next step in a seemingly ordinary moment. When you take a deep breath and check in you may feel a quiet nudge toward something unfamiliar and instead of talking yourself out of it, you follow it. Living in what’s true in your heart without the added layer of pressure, proving, performing or overexerting is clarity instead of urgency. This is where we live in flow, decisions feel simpler, less overwhelming and energy output is sustainable. You are less likely to burn out, become exhausted or live in avoidance.
Courage begins with appreciation and gratitude to meet life as it is instead of wrestling it to be perfect. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You can simply start listening a little more closely, take a moment when you need and take the next step forward.
💛 Jill