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We’re in the middle of a “make everyone feel good” culture where it’s important everyone walks away a winner. The idea that everyone gets a blue ribbon because they showed up produces a mindset that doesn’t understand how to cope with risk. Success is handed to them without effort and without the appreciation for the uncertainty that accompanies risk and the pain required for achievement.
In other words, a wimpy mindset is the by-product of a “make everyone feel good” culture. Wimps don’t understand the difference between courage and not being a coward. Courage is a noble virtue that enables us to act, face risk, and feel fear. Cowardice is our unwillingness to suffer, even for something that matters to us.
There are several definitions of courage but most experts agree that it stems from the way we deal with our fears. Our success often depends upon our ability to face the fear that accompanies setbacks, adversity, and roadblocks. The key is to react to them positively; if we do, we’re game-ready for whatever comes our way.
Somewhere between freaked out and checked out is the anxiety sweet spot — we are motivated enough to succeed and yet not so anxious that we falter. Bottom line: if we don’t feel scared, there’s no reason to be courageous.
Boldness comes from your head; courage comes from your heart. Boldness is a cerebral activity that recognizes opportunities, creates plans, and assesses the danger. Courage is a visceral reaction that comes from your gut. Courage doesn’t require a life-or-death situation to make itself known. It’s needed whenever you venture out of your comfort zone and take on something that challenges you.
If you wimp out and refuse to face your fear, or even acknowledge it, it’s impossible to grow as a human being because, in its simplest form, all behavior is the product of either fear or desire. If you desire something enough, you’ll take the risk. Fear is not something to be avoided. A strong mind recognizes fear for what it is — a sign you need to face the issue or obstacle in front of you.
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