Onward and Upward: How to Practice Bravery in Times of Uncertainty

 I recently packed up the house that was my home for 30 years. 

This home saw two marriages, five children, hundreds of holidays and more pets than I can count. The past few weeks have brought both overwhelming sadness and excitement, as I prepare for my new home. They’ve also reminded me of something very important and complex: Bravery. 

I’m entering this new phase of my life – new condo, new location, new furniture, new everything – and new is scary. When I made the decision to move, I knew it wasn’t the easy choice, but as I like I tell people in every talk I give: There is no big, red, shiny Staples easy button in life. 

Anything worth having requires work, diligence, effort and most importantly, bravery.  

The choice to move out of my home is filled with unknowns – but I wasn’t going to let that stop me from taking the leap. 

How does one conjure up bravery, you might be asking yourself.

While I have yet to discover a magical, one-size-fits-all formula for breeding bravery, I have identified some questions that can help you get there when you’re facing a situation that causes you fear. 

Stop, and ask yourself:

• What happens if I never try?
• What good can come from this choice?
• What am I willing to sacrifice?
• What are my limitations? 
• What regrets might I have about this choice?
• What are the best and worst case scenarios? 
• Who or what can I look to for support at this time?

The best things in life are often the things that make you the most uncomfortable, and bravery often requires asking yourself those tough questions. But I encourage you to take those leaps and ask those questions. 

Don’t let fear stop you from buying the condo, taking that next business step, leaving that bad relationship or starting that new one. In times of uncertainty, only bravery will take you onward and upward.