Posted: by Jo Thursday, 31 August 2017 @ 12:04
Throughout September, we are encouraging all
of us to be brave with our lives.
It is easy to stay in our comfort zones,
feeling safe, secure and unchallenged in our daily lives. However, taking
courageous steps to try new things, go on more adventures, push ourselves more,
or take steps to challenge ourselves, can bring great rewards.
The sense of achievement in succeeding in
something we never thought possible, or the satisfaction of mastering a new
skill or trying something different, is exciting, life-affirming, energising,
and ultimately, inspiring. There is plenty of evidence that a feeling of
self-mastery and achievement boosts your mental wellbeing, and transforms your
outlook on life.
At various points in our lives, we all face
tough times, challenges and difficulties that can get on top of us and wear us
down. But we all have deep wells of resilience within us that help us cope, and
remind us how strong we really are. Taking small, brave actions throughout our
lives builds this resilience for when we really need it.
Small actions are also stepping stones for
bigger, more courageous actions, later in our lives. Reminding yourself of the
times when you have been brave in the past helps us to be brave today: ‘If I
could do that, I can certainly do this!’
Capture and remember moments when you have
done something or faced something that you were scared of, but did it anyway. Have
a mantra – a phrase, or word, that captures that feeling for you - so you can
bring the feeling of courage to mind when you need it.
I like, ‘She who is brave is free’, as it
reminds me that fear entraps us, and keeps us in a small, confined, seemingly
safe, but ultimately restrictive, world; whereas courage sets us free.
I personally don’t much like flying – it got
so bad a few years ago, that I would spend half my holiday worrying about the
flight home. But then I decided I didn’t want to be that person any more. I
want to travel the world and see interesting places, so I simply wasn’t
prepared to be the person who was scared of flying any more.
So, how can we bring more courage and bravery
to our lives?
It could be by speaking out about something
you feel strongly about; it could be standing up for someone else, or
apologizing for something you have done. It could be taking steps to change
your job, or to follow your dreams; it could be a physical challenge, like
running a marathon or climbing the 3 peaks; it could be ending a relationship,
or starting one. It could be public speaking, or dining out on your own; or
simply being more open to new experiences when you are on holiday.
Throughout September, find small occasions
when you can be brave. Set a brave and courageous example to others – your
children, your family, your work colleagues. Step out from your comfort zone,
and try new things.
Read our blogs about bravery, to feel inspired.
And create a mantra for yourself that brings to mind the feeling of
achievement, when you have overcome your fear and done something in spite of
being scared. Share your experiences with us on social media, and tag us at
#mybestself to enter this month’s prize draw.
‘I am
fearless and therefore powerful’
Click here to get 15% discount on the 'Be fearless' necklace all through September