5 lessons I’ve learned about courageous living
“You’re fearless Selda; you’re so brave and strong,” people often tell me.
But such words don’t quite resonate with me. Sure, I’ve taken my fair share of risks, but I’m not some fearless wonder woman.
I’ve learned that courage isn’t a static trait reserved for select few. It’s a conscious choice made in the face of fear and uncertainty. While some perceive me as fearless, I see myself as someone who repeatedly chooses courage even with fear as a constant companion.
I grew up surrounded by examples of unspoken courage. My grandmother, despite being an illiterate, divorced woman, migrated from a small town in Turkey to Germany to build a new life and provide for her four daughters left behind. My parents always held firmly to their beliefs and upheld honesty and fairness despite the discomfort of doing that. They upheld principles of honesty and fairness in their work, even when it cost them business and income opportunities, and strained relationships.
Growing up amidst civil rights movements in Turkey, courage became woven into the fabric of my daily life. Witnessing and participating in protests, challenging injustice, and advocating for rights were everyday realities. Courage became the pulse of my life. It made me alive, gave me purpose and meaning even when came with risks and discomfort.
One of my recurring courageous acts was living in five countries despite significant health challenges. Each new beginning brought with it unknowns and uncertainties. It means leaving familiar settings and people behind. Yet, I pressed forward.
My understanding of courage goes beyond activism, defending my beliefs, or experiencing significant life changes, because courageous acts need not always be grand or risky. Everyday acts of courage are just as impactful and important as less frequent, more dramatic ones.
For instance, courage also means confronting my flaws, emotions, and weaknesses and striving towards excellence despite them. It means speaking up against a bully. It’s about listening to my own voice, however relentless or challenging it might be. It’s seeking honest feedback or changing a habit.
A courageous act is a freely chosen, intentional act in the pursuit of a worthwhile goal, frequently involving some sort of risk. While courage sometimes leads to failure, or even danger, shying away from it can have far worse consequences – not just for ourselves but for the world at large. Acts of courage fuel meaningful lives, drive civil rights movements, protect the environment, uphold democracies, and even prevent wars.
Courage not only helps us survive but also flourish. It propels us to step into different realms in life. It’s what pushes us to do the things we find worthwhile, fostering growth, helping others, contributing to the world, and challenging the status quo. Courage is where creativity and innovation begin.
While sharing some of the lessons I’ve learned about courage, I invite you to reflect on courage in your own life, not in comparison to others but as a reflection of your personal journey.
Lesson 1: Embrace fear as a companion.
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