Courage to do hard things.
Courageous Insights from Serena Sabala
Every week, I ask my Brave New Girls podcast guests how they define courage. Serena Sabala, Certified Plant-Based Nutrition Consultant and co-founder of Whole Shift Wellness, defines courage this way:
“Courage is doing the things you know are right, even when they’re not easy or popular. It’s about facing your fears and moving forward anyway. True courage isn’t about fearlessness; it’s about acknowledging the fear, respecting it, and still choosing to act in ways that honor your values.”
Serena’s perspective on courage reminds us that bravery is a quiet, determined energy within us. It’s not the absence of fear but the ability to move alongside it, guided by a sense of purpose and personal integrity. Building this kind of courage is a skill we can cultivate, one that transforms our approach to both everyday situations and life’s big challenges. It calls us to acknowledge our fears and anxieties but to look past them with a focus on what we value most.
Courage like Serena describes doesn’t require grand gestures. It lives in the moments when we choose to uphold our beliefs, when we stand by our decisions, even if they’re met with resistance. This kind of courage fosters a deep alignment with ourselves, bringing a sense of calm and resilience. Courage, at its core, is a commitment to stay true to ourselves, even when life feels uncertain. Serena shows us that each courageous choice strengthens this inner alignment, helping us build confidence and resilience over time.
Courageous living isn’t just about transforming fear; it’s about learning to lean into it, to let it shape us rather than hold us back. In those moments when doubt creeps in, when we’re tempted to stay in our comfort zones, courage nudges us forward, urging us to trust in our capabilities. As we build courage, we learn that each small act of bravery empowers us to live a life that feels authentic and purpose-driven.
Below, I share ten actionable steps inspired by Serena’s definition of courage to help you integrate courage into your daily life.
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Ten Actionable Steps to Build Courage
Identify Your Core Values
Begin by reflecting on your values. What principles guide your decisions? Defining these helps you understand what truly matters, allowing you to align your actions with those beliefs. Courage becomes more natural when it’s based on something deeply meaningful.Take Small Risks Regularly
Building courage is like building a muscle. Start with small actions that take you out of your comfort zone, whether it’s speaking up in a meeting or trying something new. These small steps expand your boundaries and strengthen your resolve.Practice Self-Compassion
Courage involves accepting that you won’t always get it right. Serena emphasizes self-compassion, which helps you view setbacks with kindness rather than self-criticism. Embracing imperfections allows you to keep moving forward without being paralyzed by fear of failure.Set Personal Boundaries
Saying “no” is an act of courage, especially when it’s to something that doesn’t align with your values. Setting boundaries is a way of honoring yourself, demonstrating that your priorities are worth protecting even if it’s uncomfortable.Challenge Limiting Beliefs
Courage often falters because of self-doubt. Take time to recognize the beliefs that hold you back, and challenge them. Remind yourself of your strengths and past accomplishments, and replace limiting thoughts with affirmations that empower you.Embrace Vulnerability
Being vulnerable—whether it’s sharing your feelings, asking for help, or admitting uncertainty—takes immense courage. Serena teaches us that vulnerability is the foundation of real strength. It helps deepen relationships and builds resilience through genuine connections.Learn from Failure
Courage involves embracing failure as part of the process. Each setback offers lessons that strengthen you for the future. When things don’t go as planned, ask yourself what you can learn and how you can apply that wisdom going forward.Surround Yourself with Supportive People
Building courage is easier when you have a circle of support. Seek out people who encourage your growth, challenge your fears, and help you stay aligned with your values. Their belief in you can provide the boost you need during difficult times.Visualize Positive Outcomes
Visualization is a powerful tool that can help reduce fear and inspire action. Picture yourself succeeding or handling a challenging situation with grace. Visualizing positive outcomes helps you approach situations with a calm, courageous mindset.Celebrate Small Wins
Recognize and celebrate each courageous action, no matter how small. Whether it’s speaking your truth or setting a boundary, take a moment to appreciate your efforts. Each win reinforces your sense of capability, motivating you to continue growing.
Through these ten steps, we can start building a courage that reflects our values and enriches our lives. Serena Sabala’s approach to courage encourages us to embrace our fears and act anyway, cultivating strength and authenticity in our daily lives.
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