4 STEPS TO CULTIVATE COURAGE 

We all know that feeling when fear creeps in and keeps us from moving forward. Whether it’s starting a new project, making a tough decision, or stepping outside your comfort zone, taking action requires courage. But here’s the truth: courage isn’t about not feeling fear—it’s about acting despite it. Feel the fear, and do it anyway!

1.IDENTIFY YOUR FEAR

Be honest about what’s holding you back. That’s where courage starts. With you. Internally. So…what’s your fear? Maybe fear of failure, rejection, or simply the unknown. We’ve all felt them. The more you can zero in on your fear, the better you can deal with it. Otherwise, it can stay in the background and influence us without us even knowing. 

What you can do: Take a minute to be honest with yourself on what’s really been stopping you from taking that next step. Write it down, and bring it into the light. 

Why it matters: I’ve said it before in other posts – naming your fear takes away some of its power. Make it something you can manage and confront. 

 

2. BREAK YOUR GOAL INTO SMALL ACTIONABLE STEPS

A large goal can feel intimidating – fear loves that. This can lead to poor fear responses like avoidance. When you break a big goal down into smaller, more actionable steps, it can become much more manageable. Courage will grow with each small win. 

What you can do: Break down your large goals into bite-sized tasks. Maybe, it’s as simple as researching a topic, sending an email, or asking questions. 

Why it matters: Small, consistent actions chip away at fear and build momentum. Each step you take adds confidence to keep going. 

3.  VISUALIZE YOUR SUCCESS

When fear sets in, it’s easy to get stuck imagining the worst-case scenario. Instead, start visualizing the best outcome. Picture yourself having already succeeded—what does it feel like? What’s life like on the other side of fear? Visualizing success can shift your mindset and give you the motivation to push through the fear. Writing these images down and going over them can be powerful 

What you can do: Spend a few minutes each day visualizing yourself achieving your goal or reading through what you wrote. Feel the excitement, the relief, the confidence. Let that energy carry you forward. 

Why it matters: Visualization boosts your confidence and reinforces the belief that you’re capable of succeeding.

4. TAKE YOUR FIRST STEP, NO MATTER HOW SMALL

Let’s be real: the hardest part is usually just starting. Fear loves to keep us stuck in the planning phase, waiting for the “perfect” moment. But courage grows when you take that first step, no matter how small it may seem. Once you get moving, fear starts to shrink. 

What you can do: Commit to taking one small action today—send the email, make the phone call, schedule the meeting. The key is to start, even if it feels uncomfortable. 

Why it matters: Action shrinks fear. The moment you start, you begin building the habit of courage, and each step makes the next one easier.