Boldness as a Compass

I received an email from a friend in Quebec with the subject line, "This Might Interest You." Attached was an article from La Presse titled "Courage: A Quality of the Heart." (For the English version, Google Translate works great.)

The article sparked a series of back-and-forths about courage in entrepreneurship, the kind that it takes to quit jobs and start businesses, or, in her case, move to another country for a "fresh start." I was intrigued, even captivated. We decided emails were too slow for this kind of engagement.

Our conversations escalated to real-time chats, where ideas flowed like cheap wine at a gallery opening. We were dissecting, analyzing, and rebuilding the concept of entrepreneurial courage with the zeal of two people who had just discovered fire. From these digital rendezvous, “5 Practices for Letting Courage Be Your Guide" was born. It is a concoction of our shared experiences, distilled into something we think is worth passing around.

The life-changing paths we take are defined not by the fear of the unknown but by the courage in our hearts—the very essence of entrepreneurship. It’s about discovering that it's the courageous pursuit of purpose that fuels the relentless drive of innovators and dreamers. So what might the very first step be in having the tenacity to face fear as if it were a thread to breakthrough instead of an obstacle to overcome? 

Step 1: Unlocking Strength Through Vulnerability

Courage begins with the willingness to be vulnerable, to face the possibility of failure and yet to proceed. This vulnerability is not a weakness but a powerful starting point for authentic growth and resilience. Embracing vulnerability allows us to confront our fears and open up to new possibilities and connections, which are essential for personal and professional growth.

Start by sharing your own challenges and uncertainties with your team. This act of vulnerability can foster a culture of trust and openness, making your business more adaptable and innovative.

Step 2: Practice the Art of Bold Decision-Making

Courageous individuals acknowledge their fears but don't let them dictate their actions. They evaluate the risks, consider the consequences, and make decisions that align with their values and goals, even in the face of fear. Facing fear head-on and making informed decisions despite it reinforces our resolve and commitment to our goals, ensuring that we remain true to our vision even under pressure.

Practice making small but challenging decisions that push you out of your comfort zone. This will gradually build your confidence to tackle larger issues bravely. 

Step 3: Integrity as the Foundation of Courage

True courage involves standing up for what is right, even when it is not easy or popular. This means prioritizing ethical considerations and the greater good over short-term gains or personal comfort. Upholding ethical integrity in all decisions builds a strong, trustworthy reputation and fosters a culture of accountability and respect within and beyond the organization.

Conduct a regular review of your personal and business practices through the lens of ethical integrity. This will help ensure that your decisions are both courageous and in line with your core values.

Step 4: Embracing Your Responsibilities with Valor

Courage includes taking responsibility for your actions and their outcomes. This means not only celebrating successes but also owning up to and learning from failures. Accepting responsibility fosters a culture of transparency and learning, encouraging everyone to take initiative and learn from mistakes without fear of undue criticism.

Have conversations at home or create a culture in the office where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth. Encourage your team to take responsibility for their actions, fostering a sense of accountability and courage within your organization.

Step 5: Bravely Pursue Courage in Constant Growth and Self-Improvement

Continuous learning and self-improvement are the commitments of a courageous heart. Recognizing that there is always room to grow, both personally and professionally, is a sign of strength and bravery. Continuous self-improvement is vital for staying relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing world, pushing us to evolve and adapt in both our personal lives and our businesses.

Set personal and professional development goals for yourself and your team. Encourage the pursuit of new skills and knowledge as a way to foster a culture of growth and courage.

My mother was always an activist, in addition to being a celebrated educator and author. During a protest, a group of women bravely, in an act of civil disobedience, brought attention to the military presence too close to local people's homes and schools. They entered the area where the military practiced weaponized exercises. The women were taking a risk and also putting a lens on the danger these exercises posed to the nearby population. It worked, but the bigger lesson came from something my mother told me after: “I was afraid until the moment I stepped through that fence. At that moment, I realized that fear is a thread. Once you step through it, you take on the responsibility and purpose of what you are doing. Being afraid simply fades away.” I carry that lesson to this day.

We've laid out some steps, now it's up to you to take the leap. Letting courage lead your entrepreneurial journey isn't just about making bold moves; it's about embodying the kind of leader who's ready to light up the world with their ideas. Here's to stepping into a brighter, more confident future.

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Your hosts at theDiversityPost, Alicia, Raffa & Tomás.

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