Transforming fear into momentous courage

How do we measure courage and confidence? 

In reality we can’t because they mean different things to different people. Some people seem to have it, some gradually develop it while others successfully master it through life experiences.  

Some things can seem daunting to begin with, especially if we feel vulnerable.  Our subconscious brain kicks in with self-doubt, negative thoughts, and all the ‘what if’s’ we can conjure up.  Over time I’ve learned to successfully manage these negative feelings, making them far easier to cope with.

The past two pandemic years have been a roller-coaster for many.  So many unexpected and disheartening events, and yet at the same time so many positive stories of courage from around the world.  Words that we rarely used such as ‘unprecedented’, ‘furlough’ and ‘self-isolation’ have now become the norm.  I’ve no intention of dwelling on the pandemic here, but more on my own personal reflection during this period.  We are now living a new way of life, so different choices have to be made.  It is our perception and reaction towards each situation we encounter that defines us.

During this time, my perspective has changed.  I’ve learned to be more kind to myself and treat fear as my friend – having self-love, having a dream, having a purpose, taking on some risk, enjoying the experience and knowing that it’s okay not to be okay.   Staying grounded has definitely helped with my personal transformation, helping me to build resilience throughout my changing circumstances, harnessing hope and striving for a better outcome.  Trying to view the World through a positive lens is always the best approach.

I was moved by this quote by John Bingham – “The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start”.  

It resonates with me, knowing that I can accept fear with courage and increase my confidence at my own pace.  Making a start, following my heart and intuition, embracing the uncertainty so that I don’t live with wishful thinking, or feeling remorse before I’ve even started.  The daunting feeling does not go away but it can be managed as long as I don’t give up on myself.  I must take responsibility for my own actions, courage to nurture optimism and look ahead.  I have become so grateful for every little thing that is available to me, my family and my friends.  

Nonetheless, I have an internal risk thermometer when stretching my personal boundaries so that I can monitor my choices, my actions and behaviours in order to avoid causing unnecessarily harm to myself.  

Being a transformational coach is my new-found superfood for my soul, knowing that I’ve so much to offer, and making new friends through coaching.  I’ve found the courage to share my story on my website - a pretty big deal for me!   Being quite a private person, I can feel my anxiety rising as I start sharing more personal feelings through my blog, but I know I can do this.  So, here I am, starting something new, writing my very first blog that hopefully will inspire at least one other person.  

I’m embracing this learning opportunity no matter how many bumps and upsets I may encounter along the way.  A new door has opened and I’m ready to embark on this incredible journey.

Life is for living – grab it with both hands and with gratitude.

We need to stop procrastinating and expecting things just to happen because we feel we ‘deserve it’. 

·       Time to stop demanding the impossible, sabotaging ourselves by comparing with others, and resisting change.  

·       Time to build our resilience by adapting, adopting and anchoring our beliefs and values that will shape us to be better version of ourselves.  

·       Time to take charge, seize the moments and transform them into plausible opportunities.

I appreciate this is easier said than done, but we shouldn’t allow fear to solely define us because we are more than capable to chart our own course.  It can be as simple as asking for help, someone to talk to, someone to laugh with or just to chat over a cup of coffee.  Whatever your first step or choice is, simple steps can make a real difference to our wellbeing.

We have a choice no matter what situation we are in today, we can do what is right for ourselves and our loved ones.  Just try by taking a deep breath, feel your heartbeat, listen to the rhythm of your body, pre-visualise your dream and the feeling of being there.  Don’t give up on yourself, be brave and make that start.  Amplify your inner voice and make it your own life miracle story.  And remember to celebrate every little success that you have achieved because you’re worth it!  Just think of your legacy, what you will leave behind and the impact it will have on yourself and others.

Let’s start transforming year 2022 with a new spirit, strength, hope, kindness and gratitude.