Courage ’26

“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” Maya Angelou

This week’s conversation is about courage and at times, this can be difficult for us all.  Like all positive traits, can have moments of strengths and moments where it is hard to find due to life’s events.  Or even if we are not feeling well due to stress, lack of energy or sleep.

For some people, finding courage can be easier when advocating or protecting others.  Examples can include protecting a peer at work from bullying and/or harassment or fleeing a domestic violence situation to protect the children.  This is still a heroic act and needs to be celebrated, as both events require determination and grit, however, may be done without conscious thought or effort at the time.

Courage comes in many forms and at times people may not realise the action is courageous due to the situation that they may find themselves in.  It may be a survival reaction, or instinct. Regardless, it is much needed and allows you to complete tasks you may not have thought you could do.

Some people wake up every day and need to draw on their courage to go to the outside world.  Think of those with a chronic illness, in which they struggle each day.  People who live with either a physical and/or mental illness, who choose to face the world.  People who are living in a situational crisis and need to wake up and do their daily chores, get the children to school and live despite the challenges.  This is bravery in action.

Courage is also a requirement for any change process.  Whether it is deciding to change a relationship or deciding to learn a new language – both require constant courage as the change and learning is long and scenic journey.  At times, the process is forward and then it takes a backwards step as we revert to old behaviour or the learning stalls for whatever reason.  Deciding to continue is a conscious thought and requires a lot of courage at times.

Courage turns up in my space all the time as to make an appointment to discuss life’s difficulties, both for yourself and/or relationships.  To decide that an issue requires a change or boundaries and learning how to navigate this in your life.

This is courage at its finest and most useful.

I hope you are using your courage well this week and continue to make the changes in your life that not only benefits you, but the special people around you.