Courage: A Valuable Skill

Courage requires the willingness to take a stance on a particular position, and the tenacity not to give up in the face of discomfort. Emotional courage can be practiced and cultivated like any action-oriented skill. Personal values may serve as a foundation for emotional courage, upon which purposeful action may be developed. Those who struggle with feeling courageous might find that a period of self-reflection on their most important values can be used to identify what goals align best with their intention and purpose. 

Courage takes some grit, and a little bit of confidence that one's efforts will yield desirable results. One way of building more confidence is to seek support in others. Surrounding oneself with positive people who believe in them can make the difference between the ability to stand strong, or to fall short, when faced with challenges that need courageous attention.

Displaying courage by taking a stand for oneself, or for others, in accordance with their core values can contribute to a person's sense of overall efficacy in the world, and employing assertive communication styles (being clear and firm) can positively impact a person's self-esteem. 

Developing courage is a learnable behavior that can be strengthened through practice and applied focus.

Discussion Questions:

• Who is the most courageous person you know, and what have they done that has impacted you personally?

• Has there ever been a time where you took a risk that required courage, but it didn't pay off? If yes, what did you do regain your confidence?