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.
