Fear Provides An Opportunity To Be Brave
Being brave is easier than you think
In times of uncertainty and rapid change, fear can set in.
During these times, we are challenged to be brave and move forward using the best information we can. It is not easy.
It requires us to dig deep and carry on. It is in times like these that we are seriously challenged. It’s not a time to step back.
Lesson to Learn
Fear can be paralyzing. It can make us step back and wait when we need to act. This is where bravery is required.
If we are not afraid, we cannot demonstrate courage. Acting despite uncertainty and fear is what we look for in leaders and team members.
We do not wish for times of fear and danger. However, when they arrive, we need to be brave. In good times, decision-making and leadership can be fun and straightforward. When we are faced with a real challenge and potential failure, we must still act.
Be brave in times of fear. Don’t shy away from doing what you know needs to be done.
Answer for Me
In times of fear, I feel my anxiety rise. I may need to pause momentarily to gain my bearings.
But I have learned I cannot just sit still. I need to act.
Even when the outcome is uncertain, in moving forward, we gain the strength to carry on when we are most afraid.
My experiences have taught me this. Do you have similar experiences? Lean into challenges.
It feels like another time of challenge as we confront the pandemic of the unvaccinated. Our work is not done. We must act decisively to keep our economy moving forward. Vaccinations for everyone is the new goal. Soon they will be available for children of all ages. This will be a huge step forward.
Along with that, we know we need all adults who can be vaccinated to step forward and protect themselves and others who are most vulnerable. We know this.
Now we must do our part — as small as it might be. Don’t let fear rob us of our lives.
Action
When faced with fear, you will need to move forward. Assess the situation.
What is the following action you need to take? Who else will you enlist to help you confront the challenges ahead? Build consensus with team members and chart a prudent course of action.
Move forward bravely despite your fear and uncertainty.
Anxiety can be everywhere.
The only way to overcome your fear is to act to confront it. Take pride in your ability to work through deeply held fears.
This makes you a brave leader.
Daily Habits
What are you fearful of now? The first step is to identify what it is.
Next, what can you do about it?
If you can take even one small action towards confronting it, you are on a path out of your fear.
A solution to your problem usually exists. Small steps toward a solution lessen your concerns and increase your sense of control and impact.
Do not sit in your fear. Find ways to address it each day.
Do you want more insights?
To learn more about leadership, visit me at www.macny.org.
To get a copy of my book Present-Future Leader, click here.