Let's talk more about courage. Courage isn't just the absence of fear but standing up for what we believe, speaking the truth, being open to opportunities, living the life we are intended to live, authentic. It takes courage to be who we really are! What influences Courage?
Life. Doesn't life have a way of taking us down paths that are opposite of where/who we thought we might be: our upbringing, marriage, supporting a family, divorce, single parenting. Childhood. How simple childhood is for some and yet for others quite a tragedy. Even the most simple trauma, or parental maneuver, in childhood can influence our behavior, diverting us from who we really are. As simple as being scolded by a teacher, vowing to never speak in class again, or as dramatic as being raised by an angry, alcoholic parent, deciding to please everyone in life. Peace at all cost! We clothe ourselves in the layered fabric of situations and dramas. Oh, the layers! How do we get through those?!?
Step 1. Recognize layers are there! Have you ever met the person that vomits layer after layer of inauthentic living everywhere- very little insight into the paths or traumas that led them to be who/where they are? Some will never get there. It's not easy.
It's not for cowards.
Will you take the first step?
