How To Feel Courageous in The Face of Fear
Embodying Courage
Courage is harnessing the strength to do something in the face of fear, pain or grief.
Research indicates that the presence of physical courage or bravery is linked to increased resilience, decreased PTSD-related symptomatology, and greater feelings of personal competence. Individuals who performed acts of heroism and bravery are more likely to be self-confident…be less cautious, be resilient, have a greater sense of humor, be a leader, have a deep sense of empathy for others, and attribute their success on the battlefield to training and modeling of others. [1]
“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear.” Mark Twain
Made Just For You, Members!
Use this model to help challenge any fearful thoughts about an upcoming situation.
F.E.A.R
Facts
Facts versus opinion: what are the absolute truths about the situation and what are your opinions about it? A fact is a statement that can be proven true or false. An opinion is an expression of feelings that cannot be proven.
Express
During times of stress, find a healthy way to express your feelings and deepest fears. It’s constructive to have an outlet to express yourself. A few ideas include: therapy, creative arts, music, movement, or writing. Think about incorporating your body - find an activity that will help you release stress such as karate or jump roping. Mentally - give yourself a break from self-criticism or judgement and think things out - try free writing; write without a filter and then toss it away once you’re done.
Act
Sometimes fear can freeze us in our tracks. Because fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat, we can become avoidant in life. What’s one thing you’d love to do or try, that is safe, that you could try even if you feel nervous? One example might be attending a new meetup social event even if you feel nervous.
4. Review
How did everything go? What happened when you tried something new? How did you feel afterwards? What did you learn? Review the event. What went well? What could have made the processed even better?
Need more support?
Get cozy and enjoy the guided meditation below.
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30 Seconds to Courage Exercise
My Favorite Courage Resources
Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are: TED TALK
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone
The Power of Vulnerability TED Talk
What are your favorite resources or tools? Share below in the comments to support your community! #MonthlyCareMember
References
Uri Kugel, Catherine Hausman, Laurie Black, and Bruce Bongar. Psychology of Physical Bravery. Jul 2017. DOI: 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199935291.013.36
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