Fearless. It’s a frequently used word. We’re told to be fearless. It is something we aim for, right? But what does it really mean? According to Webster it is to have a “lack fear”. And fear is defined as “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat“. Is being fearless really what we want tor need in order to succeed? Many say fearlessness is a myth. The truth is if you want to succeed and have a more fulfilling life, you need to be brave – NOT fearless.
Brave and courage are synonymous…. Courage is my word for this year. Think about it…
If your heart gets broken, you become afraid to open it to the possibility of love, right? Isn’t courage which gives you the hope to love again.
When you get burned out in your career (or your business) and you dream something better is possible, isn’t it courage which empowers you to try something new.
When you’ve made poor money decisions, have credit card debt or are blindsided financially and have to start over, it takes courage to believe it’s possible, right?
Over the last month, I have had the courage to make some major changes in my life. They all actually started in some way about 8 months ago but I have had the courage to face some things head on this month. I started opening up about my past mistakes to others without fear of judgement. I am only as sick as my secrets and I don’t want to be sick anymore. I see the glimmer of hope as my creative juices start to flow again – ready to venture into doing more of my angel side hustle. I have revamped my budget and am keeping tight reins on my spending. I am willing to accept suggestions on how to run my business from those who have a more experience instead of hiding in fear. I am willing to accept and embrace my MS and the changes it has caused me to make in my life – facing the limitations with courage instead of allowing fear of what I am losing take over.
Do I still have hurdles to climb? YES! Do I still struggle with fear? YES! The inner gremlins of pride, comparison and worrying what people think play with my thoughts. Each day I gain a little bit more courage which translates into a little bit more peace in my life.
No matter what your challenges or dreams are, you will face obstacles causing doubt and fear to rise up. Those inner gremlins you thought were long buried or even gone will raise their head and feel revived when they sense even just a wisp of doubt. The difference can be every single time YOU can make the decision to choose courage. Even if your first response isn’t courage (yup, it happens sometimes), your second response can be. Over and over again, if we are going to live authentic, full lives, we must choose courage.
Today, I challenge you to repeat this simple mantra when you are struggling – :“I choose courage over fear.” Some days, I use the Serenity Prayer multiple times to keep me on track. What situation or area of your life do you need to choose courage over fear right now? Share it with us…
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 