By: D. A. Slinkard
We are moving right along in 2025, and we are up to the next letter which is “C” for Courage. We must understand that courage is not the absence of fear, but it means taking action despite fear. Courage shows up in many forms — from physical, emotional, moral, and intellectual. Some everyday acts of courage include speaking up for what is right even if it is unpopular. Maybe it means stepping outside of your comfort zone to pursue growth. Sometimes it can be facing personal fears, whether starting a new venture, having a difficult conversation, or making a major life change.
Every successful person in life has been able to draw up enough courage to find success. Courage allows for us to take risks that lead to personal and professional growth. It has been said in the past that you miss 100% of the shots you do not take and this true. It takes courage to be willing to take the shot in the game of life. That is why so many people fail to get off the bench…because if it was easy, everyone would be doing it.
We have many people who are afraid to take the risk and step out to do what they know is their passion. Instead of stepping out with faith and having courage to succeed, they become paralyzed wondering what will happen if they fail. We cannot look at failure as being an option, and this is why it is important to go all out when it comes to success in life. The reality is too many people have told the lie that they tried their best at something even though they know they really did not try their best. How many times did you tell your parents you tried your best but you knew that was a lie?
The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is often the willingness to act despite uncertainty. We are not guaranteed tomorrow, and too many people fall victim to trying to play it safe. This is one of the reasons why many people feel as if their life is not quite what they want it to be. Why play it safe? Why not stretch yourself and take the risk? Can you imagine what life would be like if people were not afraid to take a chance? We would not have the societal advancements we have today – in fact, we would probably still be traveling by horse and buggy had it not been for people with courage.
We must understand that growth requires discomfort. True personal growth happens outside of your comfort zone, and if you are not a little uncomfortable in your life, then you are probably not growing. If you are not growing, then you are dying. I understand that fear is a natural response to change, but it should not be a barrier. When I notice this feeling of fear coming on, I like to ask myself, “What is the worst thing that can happen?” I have found that the fear is bigger than the reality. I conjure up things being much worse than what they actually are, and then when I do get the courage and face my fears, I say, “That wasn’t so bad.”
Every successful person has failed, sometimes multiple times. Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s part of the process, and the most courageous thing you can do is try again after a setback. It is not about how many times you get knocked down, but how many times are you willing to get back up again. Getting back up takes courage in itself. The first step is always the hardest – but just do it!
Many people want to wait until they have more knowledge or skillsets before tackling a new venture. Waiting to feel “ready” keeps you stuck, and the only way to grow is by taking action, even when you’re scared. Momentum builds with each courageous step you take. I am reminded of the quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” Courage is the spark that ignites personal growth and progress. It is not about being fearless but about moving forward despite fear. Take the leap, embrace discomfort, and remember — every step, no matter how small, matters. This is how you own 2025.
By: D. A. Slinkard
D.A. Slinkard would love your feedback. You can contact him at da.slinkard@gmail.com
January 3, 2025
