In the dynamic world of large corporations, we often face challenging situations that test our resolve. Whether it’s navigating organizational changes, meeting tight deadlines, or managing complex projects, tapping into your courage reserves is essential.
But how can you cultivate and harness this courage during tough times? Let’s explore some research-backed strategies to help you rise to the occasion with confidence and resilience.
Recognize and Embrace Your Own Courage
First and foremost, acknowledge that courage isn’t the absence of fear but the willingness to act despite it. By seeing yourself as a courageous individual, you’re more likely to behave courageously. This self-perception can provide a psychological boost, inspiring greater self-assurance in challenging situations. The way this works for me is the following: When I need to act with courage, I remember a situation where I was courageous. I try to recall it in as much detail as possible bringing to the present the feelings of fear, insecurity, and trepidation I felt at that time and how I felt afterwards, when I did what needed to be done despite my fears, alongside my fears. Leaving your impostor syndrome at the door is critical to move on with courage.
Witness and Learn from Acts of Courage
Observing courageous actions within your organization can serve as powerful inspiration. Witnessing colleagues stand up for their beliefs, to support others who are either not in the room or whose voice is not being heard, or to undertake bold initiatives, can prompt you to reevaluate your own abilities and help you mitigate your risk aversion. Keeping your eyes open to identify acts of courage both inside your organization and all around you can be extremely inspiring and hopefully contagious.
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Cultivate a Passion for Trying New Things
We are often afraid of doing things we’ve never done before. We fear we won’t be able to rise to the occasion or that we will fail. The truth is that our workplaces and society at large are fast evolving to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, so there was never a better time to try your hand at something you’ve never tried before. It’s particularly useful to remember this during tough times, when you may be facing layoffs, a reorg, or a project you deem to be beyond your skills or knowledge. Gather your strength by asking people in your network to support you, and then research any areas where you need additional information. Whether you need to interview for jobs in a different industry, or you need to take a course so you can move to a different department, you have what it takes.
Build a Supportive Network
Surrounding yourself with supportive colleagues and mentors can bolster your courage. A strong professional network provides a safety net, offering advice, encouragement, and different perspectives. The key here is for you to empower your inner circle to nudge you when you feel a bit insecure. If you give them permission to push you a big when you seem hesitant, they’ll be there for you when you’re lacking the courage to go for that challenge.
Develop Risk Intelligence
Understanding and assessing risks accurately—known as risk intelligence—can empower you to make courageous decisions. By evaluating potential outcomes and preparing for various scenarios, you can approach challenges with confidence and clarity. This proactive approach reduces uncertainty and enhances decision-making skills, something you can always use.
Make Friends with Uncertainty
There’s no two ways about it. We live in uncertain times. Look around you and you’ll see that uncertainty is baked into everything nowadays. From companies’ strategies to people’s beliefs systems, to how people vote, to what the weather will be like in any given season, the level of uncertainty around us can become a bit overwhelming. But if you train yourself to expect the unexpected, then it’s easier when the unexpected happens. It takes courage to face unexpected circumstances but the more you prepare for them, the more resilient you become and the better you’ll fare in difficult times.
Practice Courageous Conversations
Creating an environment where open communication is valued encourages courageous conversations. When you feel safe to express ideas and concerns without fear of retribution, you’re more likely to speak up and take initiative. This openness leads to innovative solutions and a more cohesive team dynamic. It also makes you feel like you’re not alone in whatever it is you’re facing. Because no matter what situation requires your courage, it’s always easier to act with courage when you feel that you’re not alone or that you’re not only doing this for yourself.
Be Courageous for Others
There are times when despite your fears you must act with courage not for your benefit but to be a role model for others. If you are watchful, you’ll discover these kinds of acts all around you. When people get up to say something that may not be to their advantage at that moment, but they do it anyway because young children are listening, and they want these kids to see them as a role model. When people are comfortable with their lives, but they stand up for injustice. We are surrounded by exemplary people that should encourage us to follow on their footsteps.
Incorporating these strategies into your professional life can help you tap into your courage reserves when facing tough times. Remember, courage is a skill that can be developed with practice and support. By fostering a courageous mindset and environment, you’re not only enhancing your own resilience but also contributing to a more dynamic and robust workplace for all.
