So how do you define it?
I ask because when I was 16, a friend gave me a book about being assertive as I’d been being a bit of a doormat. Basically I’d been saying yes to things that weren’t ok.
After devouring that book I charged full steam ahead, so that my pendulum swung to the opposite side. You see I became determined to be as strong as possible; perhaps it needed to happen that way.
However, when I figured out my definition of courage, and allowed my actions to follow my thinking, I found my balance-spot (which touches on our conversation about the Tao and keeping that consistency and equilibrium).
Interestingly, I recently noticed myself saying yes, even when my inner voice was saying no. 1
One good thing that came from this is that I realise I’m spotting it quicker when I’m going against my own grain these days. Because my highest values include being congruent and authentic, the sense of mismatch between what I’m feeling on the inside and saying on the outside is a flag that I need to stop and re-think.
This check-in is a valuable time of stopping and pausing for me. Tuning back in to what I need, rather than being a people-pleaser and saying, “oh, yes, it’s fine” when it’s not.
By opting to be honest and courageous I honor myself, and I also honor others.
Can you relate to my experiences here; or maybe you know someone who can?
We’re taking a deeper look at courage in this week’s #AliveWithFi, so if it’s something you think might be valuable for a friend, please do invite them too. You can either share a recording of the FB Live – or this link here #AliveWithFi
And if you’d rather get in touch sooner, it’s always fab to hear from you.
Ciao for now!
1It can at first seem easier to go along with what some else wants us to do, yet it comes at a cost. In the long run, while it can be hard to be courageously honest, the price of not doing so can damage our sense of self-worth and peace. “Becoming More Authentic: Accept Yourself and Stop Seeking Approval” T. Patel (N.D.)
Fi Jamieson-Folland D.O., I.N.H.C., is The LifeStyle Aligner. She’s an experienced practitioner since 1992 in Europe, Asia and New Zealand as a qualified Osteopath, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, speaker, educator, writer, certified raw vegan gluten-free chef, and Health Brand Ambassador.
