essay on courage is the key to success

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Courage to Accept and Dedication to Improve are Two Keys to Success

• 14 Feb 2024

"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." - Nelson Mandela

Mandela's words resonate with the very essence of success, a journey paved with both triumph and tribulations. While ambition and talent drive us forward, true progress blossoms from two interlinked keys: courage to accept and dedication to improve. 

Courage is the audacity to confront fears and accept circumstances , while dedication drives relentless improvement. Courage entails facing fears head-on and embracing vulnerability. It necessitates acceptance of present circumstances, viewing failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback. Dedication fuels continuous improvement, fostering resilience and discipline. It instills a growth mindset, prioritizing long-term goals over instant gratification. 

Together, courage and dedication form a formidable partnership, guiding individuals through the ebbs and flows of life's journey, as evidenced by numerous tales and examples throughout history: 

Thomas Edison , for instance, famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." His persistence and reframing of failure through courage and dedication led to revolutionary inventions.

J.K. Rowling' s initial rejections for her Harry Potter manuscript demonstrate that the path to success is rarely linear. Unexpected detours and challenges can be catalysts for growth if dealt with courage to face failure and dedication to continuously improve. 

According to the famous tale of Eklavya , he not only showcases unwavering loyalty to his Guru but also demonstrates remarkable courage in accepting his circumstances, including the refusal of his Guru and the subsequent insult by Arjuna . Despite these challenges, Eklavya exhibits an unyielding dedication to learning and improving his skills. 

In the political realm, individuals like Malala Yousafzai embody the spirit of courage. Undeterred by the Taliban's threats , she dared to fight for girls' education, sparking a global movement that continues to echo today.  Liberia's first female president, Sirleaf , confronted immense challenges rebuilding her war-torn nation. Despite criticism, she courageously tackled corruption and economic instability, dedicating herself to enhancing governance, education, and healthcare for her people.

India's " Garibi Hatao" (Eradicate Poverty) movement led by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi exemplifies the nation's courage to accept its socioeconomic challenges and dedication to improving the lives of its citizens. 

In a geopolitical context, recognising the vulnerabilities of relying solely on oil revenues, Saudi Arabia has embarked on ambitious economic reforms especially in sectors like tourism, technology, infrastructure and entertainment. By embracing economic diversification, Saudi Arabia demonstrates courage in acknowledging the need for change and dedication to improving its long-term economic sustainability and resilience in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Similarly, the social sphere resonates with the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Edith Windsor's courageous pursuit of marriage equality culminated in the landmark, United States v. Windsor , case demonstrating the transformative power of dedication in the face of societal stigma.

Economically, India's LPG reforms in the 1990s exemplify bold policy decisions fueled by courage of accepting economic downfall and a dedication to improvement. Liberalising trade and investment, privatizing state-owned enterprises, and deregulating the financial sector led to significant economic growth, attracting foreign investment and unleashing entrepreneurial potential.

The ecological landscape also echoes the necessity of courage and dedication. The Chipko Movement in India arose in the 1970s as a grassroots effort to protect forests. Led by environmental activist Sunderlal Bahuguna and inspired by local women, the movement involved embracing trees to prevent their destruction. This act of courage not only raised awareness but also led to government policies recognising the rights of communities in forest management.

In the space domain, despite setbacks with Chandrayaan-2, ISRO's swift announcement and clear execution of Chandrayaan-3 highlight its unwavering courage and dedication.

In the realm of sports, individuals like Virat Kohli epitomized the courage to accept shortcomings after the England Test Series in 2014 and dedication to improve. He transformed criticism into motivation, honed his skills, and led India to historic victories.

In the professional domain, Ashok Khemka, an IAS officer stands a prominent example. Despite facing threats and transfers, he courageously investigated corruption in land deals, unwavering in his dedication to truth and justice.

However, in the pursuit of courage and dedication, individuals often encounter barriers that hinder their progress and inhibit their ability to reach their full potential. One significant barrier is fear—fear of failure, rejection, or uncertainty can paralyze individuals, preventing them from taking risks and stepping outside their comfort zones.  Additionally, societal norms and expectations can serve as barriers, imposing limitations on individuals' aspirations and discouraging them from pursuing their passions. 

Moreover, self-doubt and insecurity can undermine one's confidence and motivation, leading to a lack of commitment and perseverance. Furthermore, external pressures and distractions, such as financial constraints or personal obligations, can divert individuals' focus and energy away from their goals . Overcoming these barriers requires resilience, self-awareness, and a willingness to challenge limiting beliefs and societal norms. By cultivating inner strength, seeking support from others, and staying true to their values and aspirations, individuals can break through these barriers and unleash their full potential with courage and dedication.

Also, this potent duo of courage and dedication requires a crucial companion: wisdom . Blindly pushing forward without self-reflection, adaptability, and a willingness to learn can lead to unintended consequences. Consider Malala's advocacy , which evolved beyond education to encompass broader human rights issues, demonstrating her evolving wisdom always aiming for a little extra.

"The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra." - Jimmy Johnson.  

Indeed, the stories of individuals who have achieved extraordinary success often reflect their willingness to invest that little extra whether it's Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam's tireless efforts to advance India's space and defense capabilities as the "Missile Man," Mother Teresa' s selfless dedication to serving the poorest of the poor, or Lata Mangeshkar's unmatched dedication to music, becoming one of India's most iconic playback singers.

In conclusion, Nelson Mandela's powerful metaphor reminds us that success is not about avoiding falls, but about rising with greater strength and clarity. Embracing the courage to accept reality, coupled with the dedication to improvement and guided by wisdom, unlocks the potential for positive change across all dimensions of our lives. 

"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou

Essay About Courage: Top 5 Examples and 6 Prompts 

Courage covers a range of topics and meanings. Here are examples and prompts to help you write your essay about courage.

Many believe bravery and courage mean the same thing and even use them interchangeably. However, though both describe heroic acts, they are not the same. Where bravery is the lack of fear, courage is taking action despite it. 

Some argue that courage takes more strength because it means sharing your story even though you may be ridiculed, rejected, and misunderstood. It takes courage to admit when you’re hurt or feel lost, vulnerable, and need help. 

If you’re having problems channeling and describing what courage is, here are examples that will assist you in connecting with this subject:

1. My Opinion About Courage by Gary Collins

2. moral courage by fernando wood, 3. courage by benjamin patrick, 4. the importance of courage by saloni, 5. essay on courage by manasi shewale, 1. what does courage mean to you, 2. your most courageous act, 3. a courageous hero, 4. things you are most afraid of, 5. what creates doubt, 6. a time when you failed to show courage and regretted it.

“And even then, she had no grudge against the world. She doesn’t think the world owes her. She never takes money or even grains that she hasn’t earned.”

In this essay, Collins shares his experience with courage through someone named Sunita. Sunita told Collins about her life and what made her who she is. Such as at a very young age, she fought to support herself because no one would have done that for her, and many other tales. 

Her stories made Collins realize how lucky he is and how he should be grateful for the many opportunities that come his way without the need to suffer as she did. He also includes that Sunita lives on to inspire others with her courage.

Check out these essays about beliefs .

“Moral courage is standing up for values such as honesty, fairness, compassion, respect, and responsibility but just having these values are not enough we have to try to put them into practice, and we have to commit to moral principles as well…”

Moral courage is doing what’s right and following what your conscience dictates. Wood has three significant elements of moral courage: principle, endurance, and danger.

He explains moral courage through Geoge Norris, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Youssafzai. These people took risks even if their lives were in danger to follow their conscience and do the right things. Wood instills that moral courage is essential in making a critical move, especially when choosing the greater good.

“Courage is the only thing that gets us through the hard times, and the tempting opportunities. Courage is vital to the evolution of the human population. It is also an essential quality to becoming a successful person.”

Patrick discusses how courage helps a person succeed in life. He mentions that we all have courage, but some use it differently than others.

He gives an example of a girl who plays hockey, where the other members are all boys. They looked down on her because of her gender. But instead of giving up, she took it as a challenge and courageously showed them she could play at their level. She became friends with most of the team, but there was one boy who kept on bullying her. The boy misused his courage, but the girl used her courage to fight him off.

“Courage is mental and moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It is the firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.”

Saloni’s essay shows two kinds of courage: physical and moral. People who depend on physical strength show physical courage. They can protect and help others. If a person is weak, they are not physically courageous. 

On the other hand, one’s honesty connects to their moral courage. They are the ones with convictions and don’t support evil works. Even if you are a weak person, you can still be morally courageous. Unfortunately, this courage is rare nowadays because people are afraid of being attacked mentally and emotionally. To be morally courageous means to be a fighter to go against wrong-doings.

“It is very difficult to keep up your morals and therefore, gather up the necessary courage to fight against the wrong situations. Therefore, in today’s date, it is even rarer to find a person with the proper morals required to live a satisfactory life.”

Shewale shares little acts of courage in our everyday lives – such as a girl who loves to dance but is afraid of the stage or a person who’s readying themselves for a job interview. Courage is not only shown in grand scenes but in small acts that help us survive our daily lives.

The author further discusses events where courage helps in more controversial fields, such as injustices to farmers and students’ bullying. 

If you want to upgrade your writing style, check out these top essay writing tips to level up your essay.

6 Prompts on Essay About Courage

After reading relevant examples in essays about courage, it’s now your turn to try your hand at creating one. Below are prompts that can guide you in your essay writing:

There is no one definition of courage. It differs from each individual, and its meaning is affected by our experiences and knowledge. In this prompt, share the word “courage” and discuss what courage means to you. When do you feel courageous, and why? Then, describe personal experiences of being courageous or stories of courageous people who inspire you.

Think about a time when you were courageous. Create an essay based on this event and describe in detail what happened. Convey your thoughts and feelings, and show why you were courageous. 

Write an essay about a hero in your life. This could be a celebrity you admire, a relative or friend, or a teacher in school. Describe why this person is courageous, why you look up to them, and how they inspire you. Make sure to include fine details of their personality and how they act. This will make for an exciting and compelling essay.

The first step to being courageous is acknowledging you are afraid. Then, to get your fears out of the way, you need to identify what and why they exist. This prompt lets you connect with your readers who have the same worries. 

For example, you can share that you’re afraid of rejection, being alone, etc. Then, discuss why and what you plan to do to overcome them. You can also write about how you plan to be courageous while still afraid.

Our greatest challenge to succeeding in something is doubting ourselves. When we doubt ourselves, we start to think of all the things that can go wrong. So we show our courage by being afraid of these negative consequences but still trying and hoping for a good result. 

Share an experience when you still tried, even when you’re unsure. It doesn’t need to have the best ending. You only have to prove that it’s better to try and fail than fail without trying at all. 

There will always be times when we desperately want to be more courageous but fail to do so due to various factors. Write about that experience, share your feelings, and what you’ll do if you have the chance to repeat that situation. 

Do you want to write about another topic aside from courage? Check out this list of best writing topics for students !

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Courage to accept and dedication to improve are the two keys to success

December 14, 2019 by Sandeep

Would you like me to give you a formula for success? It’s quite simple, really: Double your rate of failure. You are thinking of failure as the enemy of success. But it isn’t at all. You can be discouraged by failure, or you can learn from it, so go ahead and make mistakes. Make all you can. Because remember that’s where you will find success. — Thomas J. Watson

Today, we all live in a world where the meaning of “success” changes every day. In olden times, earning a living, having a family, or building a house was all considered success. But today’s youth are looking for all this and more to be termed successful.

They want to find meaningful jobs. They want to win the hardest battles within themselves and step out of their comfort zone. They want to travel the world. In spite of all these changes, the essence of achieving success has not changed.

When one does not understand this essence of success, one fails. Success does not and has never come easy. It requires commitment, passion, hard work, and lots of patience. More than anything else, success demands courage. It calls for a will to improve and try again every time one fails. Thus, the courage to accept failures and dedication to improve can be called as the two facets of any kind of success a person wants to achieve in his life. 

The Elements of Courage

What is Courage? Courage is the ability to do something that frightens someone. It is also the strength in the face of pain or failure. Courage is an extremely significant path in the journey of success. Courage is what makes someone choose a difficult path. It is the courage of a sailor that keeps the ship moving in a storm.

One requires the courage to commit to his/her dream and courage is necessary to overcome the different obstacles and work towards his/ her goal. When one fails to achieve the goal, the courage to accept failure and the courage to improve oneself and try again is essential. Let us look deep into what courage is demanded of us on the path to success.

The first significant step where a person has to show courage is when he chooses his goals. It is easy to stay within one’s comfort zone and aim for things within reach, but when one aspires to achieve goals outside his comfort zone and dreams to have things beyond his reach, it takes immense amounts of courage.

The courage shown by Gandhiji to choose to come back to India and join the freedom movement after being pushed off a train in South Africa was a key moment in our freedom struggle. Once a person chooses a goal, he must then have the courage to commit himself to it and work towards it without getting distracted.

Success requires multiple sacrifices. One needs to pass through many obstacles to reach his goal. He must show the courage to not give up irrespective of all these hardships to be able to succeed. 

But, the most important show of courage is required when one fails. It is true that failure is a stepping stone to success. The one without the courage to face failure may put the blame on circumstances and give up. But, only someone with the courage to accept his mistakes in the light of failure can succeed.

We all make mistakes. “To err is human,” said Alexander Pope. We need to look within ourselves to understand what exactly went wrong. It is also a good idea to ask the people around us for suggestions. When someone points out a mistake, we must not be afraid to accept our errors.

Patience is another virtue that is necessary when looking for constructive criticisms. Further, instead of feeling guilty about any actions, we must look at how we can improve ourselves. Let us take the example of a famous businessman Steve Jobs. We all know about his success with Apple.

But do we know that Steve Jobs was fired by the same company after the failure of Apple Lisa in 1983? Steve Jobs accepted his mistake of judgment on the product and continued to work hard. He finally found his way back to the company in 1997 and led it during a period of growth and innovation. Thus, his courage to accept his mistake became his biggest strength. 

This applies to not only individuals and corporate but also to societies and countries. India has always tried to raise its voice against terrorism in world forums. In the light of these attempts, India tried to put Masood Azhar and his terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed in the UNSC 1267 list which would list him as an international terrorist under the UN.

But this move was repeatedly blocked by China. India accepted its failure and continued to improve its strategy and attempts to find ways to convince the world community. Finally, in April 2019, India succeeded after failing almost 6 times. This incident shows the importance of accepting defeat and trying to improve in the journey towards success. 

The Dedication to Improve

As much as the courage to accept is necessary, it is useless without the urge to improve and try again. When one fails by going through a certain method, he should be willing to focus on the flaws of that method and find ways to correct them.

The dedication to improve is an extremely significant step in the path to success. Let us look at civil servant exams aspirants. Most do not clear it in the first attempt. But, to succeed they must have the courage to try again. They must analyze their mistakes and work hard to not repeat them. Only then is success possible. 

When the recent abrogation of Article 370 happened, there were mixed reactions. While some criticized the government’s methods, others applauded the courage. But if we look at the intention of the government, we see one major objective – to improve the conditions of Kashmiris.

The government accepted that Article 370 was being misused and that we must abrogate the same in the path to fight terrorism. Thus, it began preparations to ensure smooth removal of Article 370. The dedication of the government to improve the circumstances at the border forced them to take steps that were beneficial. Here we see that without the dedication to improve, one cannot reach one’s goals. 

The dedication to improve is a process. It begins with taking steps to identify the issues. Let us take the example of Raja Ram Mohan Roy who struggled to bring in social reforms in society. He began by identifying the social norms and practices which were unfair, discriminatory and inhumane.

As flaws are recognized, one must also analyze as to what can be done differently. After realizing the effects of the sati system, Raja Ram Mohan Roy decided to take it upon himself to put an end to the system and legalize widow remarriage.

Then, one must work towards implementing these changes in order to achieve success. Raja Ram Mohan Roy approached the then British government and had discussions and debates to prove his point. Finally, with persistent efforts, one can achieve success. The Bengal Sati Regulation came into existence in 1829 and soon, the Hindu Widow Remarriage Act was passed in 1856. 

From individual successes to achieving societal and national goals, the willingness to improve has been an essential element. Another important aspect of having the courage to accept and dedication to improve is optimism. Optimism is the ability to look at everything in a positive light.

As it is often said, “Life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% of how you react to it.” Thus, optimism makes it possible to think rationally and take effective decisions in the event of a failure. We have seen how the optimism of the LGBTQ+ community led them towards constantly working to decriminalizing Article 377.

Even though the journey had ups and downs, with their courage to accept and dedication to improve their arguments and mobilize support, they finally succeeded. Even now, the community works towards improving LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

Various examples above have proven the importance of courage and dedication to improving the path to success. Similarly, in cases where such courage was not displayed and there was no dedication to improve, success has been few and far off. Let us look at the economic situation of the country.

Both demonetization and GST was implemented with good intention like removing black money or “One Nation One Tax”. But there were some flaws like rate structure. It is not bad to have problems in plans as problems can be resolved and an effective result can be obtained. But, the effective result is possible only when the government accepts these problems.

Instead, reports regarding economic slowdown were not published. No fundamental measures were taken to correct the shortcomings of GST and more importantly, its provisions were not made clear to the general public. Thus, we saw the result in a low GDP growth rate in the coming quarters.

Thus, we see how success is unattainable without the courage to accept and dedication to improve. No plan, process or program can be flawless. The difference between a successful plan and a failed one is how these flaws are handled. As famous playwright George Bernard Shaw said 

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The Importance of Courage

Insights from

James R. Detert

Stuart Scott was the first Black television presenter to anchor ESPN’s flagship sports program, SportsCenter. Remembered for his use of slang, clever catchphrases and references to Black culture and music, Scott is also credited for effectively changing the language America used to talk about sports. 

But not everyone was a fan. In the early 2000s, he faced a backlash from certain parts of the media, the public and even senior executives at ESPN. Tone the style down, said one boss, or face the consequences. Scott’s response was creative, brilliant and gutsy. He chose to go on air and publicly congratulate his employers for supporting underrepresented aspects of American culture — communities that had not hitherto been championed on TV. This act saved his career while simultaneously advancing Black culture in the U.S. 

A decade later, a medical student, Chris, took a decision that most likely saved a life. When a suicidal patient arrived at the emergency room, Chris pushed the intimidating supervising psychiatrist to order a simple diagnostic. The results revealed a vascular disease to be the root of the problem, and the patient was sent to surgery instead of the psych ward. 

Elsewhere, marketing executive Jackie faced a dilemma. Her organization’s president was opposed to an ambitious sales campaign that she wanted to launch. If it works, he told her, you can keep your job. If not, she would need to look elsewhere. Jackie went ahead with the campaign, which turned out to be the most successful in her organization’s history. She kept her job, though she received little in terms of recognition or thanks. 

What do Stuart Scott, Chris and Jackie have in common?

They all faced a choice: to pursue … or not … an action that could lead to recrimination from their superiors. And each of them chose to step up when most others might not. They chose to act courageously. 

Choosing Courage is subject and title of Darden Professor Jim Detert’s new book. 

An Everyday Guide

In the book, Detert advances a novel idea. Courage, he says, is the lynchpin of leadership. It is courage that determines whether a leader will put leadership skills or toolkits to effective use. It is courage that is absolutely fundamental to solving problems, innovating, pursuing opportunities and safeguarding the welfare of others. And contrary to our common understanding, courage is not the province or responsibility of the few; courage is a skill that can be learned and developed. 

“As a society, we’ve largely accepted the notion that courageous actions are not the norm,” writes Detert. “They happen only when you find extraordinary people in extraordinary situations. This book presents a challenge to that idea. I believe that courage isn’t just about the spectacular, rare acts that get you labeled Time’s Person of the Year. The need for courageous actions falls within the responsibility of every effective leader — and competent courage comes from the choices you make to step up and speak up, and to learn and repeatedly practice specific skills, just like any competence in any domain.” 

Choosing Courage: The Everyday Guide to Being Brave at Work sets out the argument for courage in leadership, warns of the risks of failing to be courageous, explores how courage manifests in the workplace, and examines the strategies, tactics and tools that leaders can deploy to develop the courage competence. 

The book distills everything Detert has learned, he says, in his years of researching organizational behavior, and is fleshed out by scores of personal stories and case studies modeling the kinds of behaviors that are “desperately needed if individuals and businesses are to learn, be healthy and thrive.”

When leaders fail to act courageously, he warns, they risk allowing things like discrimination and abuse to foment, as in the well-documented cases of Wells Fargo or Volkswagen. Unless they step up to solve problems or seize opportunities, they risk employee disengagement or even organizational failure. And not having the courage to innovate can lead to being leap-frogged by nimbler upstarts and those better prepared to adapt in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

Self-Worth and 2 Factors

That said, Choosing Courage is not a call to “organizational martyrdom.” Nor does Detert suggest that leaders make themselves vulnerable to every strong emotion or idea. 

“This book is an invitation to consider courageous actions as something that can be done more or less competently, where competence means you increase the chances of accomplishing something positive while decreasing the likelihood of negative personal consequences.”

Detert looks at risks people associate with courageous actions — from the potential to be blackballed, held back or even fired, to the psychological risk-taking of speaking out and up, as well as the dangers of social ostracization. He also describes the benefits of courageous action — for the individual and for others.  

“Stuart Scott paved the way for greater diversity in broadcasting, while Chris spared that patient intense suffering or worse and Jackie spearheaded a highly successful campaign. And for the individual leader, choosing courage is indelibly linked to two factors that determine self-worth: regrets that may accumulate and your sense of legacy.”

Speaking Truth to Power

Detert explores the most common types of behavior seen as courageous in the workplace, while setting out practical diagnostics and frameworks, as well as tools to maximize positive impact. 

Speaking “truth to power” includes confronting or challenging authority figures and choosing to act with greater autonomy than you might technically have. And it’s not easy. 

In a wage-dependent society, we are pretty much hard-wired to fear power, says Detert. Challenging the boss or defying instructions can be downright terrifying. Yet there are scores of instances of people speaking up and effecting positive results without ruining their careers. And it depends on behavior. 

Going in aggressively or over-defensively is likely to provoke a greater sense of threat or anger than using reason. 

“Say you’ve just been told your team will have no promotions this year. You request a meeting with your boss. You could tell her that you’re sick of defending a pay policy while your team members are being courted by other companies,” notes Detert. “Or you could point out that the decision concerns you because of the risk of losing strategic talent. Which behavior or approach is likely to elicit the more positive response?”

Speaking truth to power, says Detert, takes courage. But it also takes thinking deeply about how to behave — how to frame and communicate with superiors to achieve better results. And though we cannot necessarily predict or guarantee outcomes, there are other benefits to speaking up. 

“We know that people are most inspired when they see their own boss stand up to his or her own boss(es), be it about unacceptable interpersonal behavior or unethical or illegal behavior. We’re also highly impressed when our boss goes to bat for us to those above him or her, or defends or takes the hit for us with higher-ups in order to protect our well-being.”

A Personal Choice

Of course, the converse is also true. The data also show that bosses do a great deal of motivational harm by not acting; when they fail to speak up or take other action on egregious workplace practices or behaviors. 

“If you think people don’t notice your inaction or aren’t bothered because they know it’s really hard to do these things, the data suggest you should think again,” says Detert.

Ultimately the decision to choose courage is a personal one, says Detert. It is down to the individual to choose whether to be the change they wish to see, as Ghandi encouraged. 

Choosing Courage sets out a road map for building the skill of courage and increasing the chances of having maximum impact in doing so. 

In the next article, we will look at how Detert tackles some of the other types of courageous workplace behaviors, how to build a personal Courage Ladder, creating the right conditions for success and how to choose your battles. 

The preceding is drawn from Choosing Courage: The Everyday Guide to Being Brave at Work (Harvard Business Review Press) by Jim Detert. 

John L. Colley Professor of Business Administration

An expert on leadership and ethics, Detert’s research focuses on workplace courage, why people do or don’t speak up, and ethical decision-making and behavior. His research and consulting have been conducted across a variety of global high-technology and service-oriented industries, in addition to public sector institutions, including K–12 education.

Detert has received awards for his teaching in MBA and Executive MBA programs, as well as academic best paper awards for his work, which appears in many online and print media outlets. Prior to coming to Darden, he taught at the Johnson School of Management at Cornell University.

BBA, University of Wisconsin; MBA, University of Minnesota; M.A., Ph.D., Harvard University

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Essay on Courage

Introduction to Courage

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.” Nelson Mandela ‘s words echo through history, reminding us of the transformative power within the human spirit. Courage is a ray of hope in a world of uncertainty and misfortune, helping us get through our darkest moments. From the battlefield to the boardroom, from the streets to the halls of justice, courage stands as a testament to the extraordinary potential within each of us. Join me on a journey as we unravel the complexities of courage, exploring its depths, manifestations, and enduring significance in shaping the tapestry of human experience.

The Psychological Underpinnings of Courage

Courage, often celebrated as a noble virtue, is intertwined with various psychological mechanisms that enable individuals to confront fear, adversity, and uncertainty. Understanding these underlying psychological processes unveils courage’s intricate nature and sheds light on how individuals can act bravely in the face of danger or challenge.

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• Understanding Fear : At the core of courage is recognizing and acknowledging fear. Fear is a primal emotion designed to alert us to potential threats and dangers, triggering the body’s innate fight-or-flight response. However, courage is not the absence of fear but rather the ability to navigate and transcend it. Psychologically, courage involves confronting and managing fear rather than succumbing to its paralyzing effects.
• Resilience and Grit : Courage often emerges from resilience and grit, psychological traits associated with perseverance in adversity. While grit encourages an unwavering pursuit of long-term goals in the face of hurdles or disappointments, resilience allows people to recover from setbacks, failures, or painful experiences. These qualities provide individuals with the mental fortitude and determination necessary to overcome challenges and act courageously, even in the face of daunting odds.
• Self-Transcendence : Courage frequently involves a sense of self-transcendence, wherein individuals move beyond their self-interests or concerns to act for the greater good or align with their deeply held values and principles. This psychological shift from self-preservation to altruism or moral duty often underpins acts of moral courage, where individuals risk personal safety or reputation to uphold ethical standards or advocate for justice.
• Emotional Regulation : Courageous behavior often requires effective emotional regulation, whereby individuals manage and channel their emotions constructively in challenging situations. Rather than being overwhelmed by fear, anger, or anxiety , courageous individuals maintain emotional composure and clarity, allowing them to make rational decisions and take decisive action despite emotional turmoil.
• Cognitive Appraisal and Coping Strategies : How individuals perceive and interpret threatening or challenging situations significantly influences their courage-related behaviors. Cognitive appraisal theory suggests that individuals’ evaluations of a situation’s perceived threat or challenge determine their emotional and behavioral responses. Courageous individuals may employ various coping strategies, such as reframing adversity as an opportunity for growth, seeking social support, or engaging in problem-solving to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

Types of Courage

Courage manifests in various forms, reflecting a distinct aspect of human resilience, determination, and moral fortitude. Understanding these different types of courage provides insight into how individuals confront fear, adversity, and uncertainty.

1. Physical Courage : Physical courage entails facing physical danger or discomfort despite the inherent risks. It is often associated with acts of bravery in life-threatening situations, such as combat, emergency response, or extreme sports. Physical courage encompasses several subtypes:

• Combat Courage : Demonstrated by soldiers and warriors on the battlefield, combat courage involves risking one’s life to protect others, accomplish strategic objectives, or defend principles and values.
• Emergency Response Courage : First responders, firefighters, and paramedics exemplify this courage by rushing into hazardous situations to save lives, extinguish fires, or provide medical aid despite the dangers present.
• Endurance Courage : Athletes, adventurers, and explorers exhibit endurance courage when they push their physical limits, endure pain, fatigue, and harsh conditions, and conquer new frontiers or break records to achieve personal or athletic goals.

2. Moral Courage : Moral courage refers to the willingness to stand up for principles, values, or ethical beliefs in the face of opposition, criticism, or personal risk. It involves speaking out against injustice, advocating for marginalized groups, or challenging oppressive systems. Moral courage encompasses several dimensions:

• Social Justice Courage : Activists, advocates, and whistleblowers demonstrate social justice courage by confronting systemic inequality, discrimination, or human rights abuses to effect positive social change and promote equality and justice.
• Ethical Integrity Courage : Individuals display ethical integrity courage when they adhere to their moral principles and resist pressure to compromise their values or engage in unethical behavior, even when doing so comes at a personal or professional cost.
• Conscience Courage : This form of courage involves following one’s conscience and doing what is right, even when defying authority, social norms, or peer pressure. It is often evident in civil disobedience, dissent, or resistance against unjust laws or policies.

3. Emotional Courage : Emotional courage entails confronting and managing one’s emotional vulnerabilities, fears, or traumas with resilience and authenticity. It involves facing inner demons, expressing vulnerability, and seeking support or healing. Emotional courage encompasses the following aspects:

• Vulnerability Courage : Brene Brown’s concept of vulnerability courage emphasizes the willingness to embrace vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. This allows individuals to cultivate deeper connections, authenticity, and resilience in their relationships and personal growth.
• Trauma Courage : Survivors of trauma demonstrate trauma courage when they confront and process their traumatic experiences, seek therapy or support, and engage in healing practices to reclaim their agency, resilience, and sense of self-worth.
• Self-Compassion Courage : This form of courage involves extending compassion, kindness, and forgiveness to oneself in the face of self-criticism, shame, or self-doubt, fostering resilience, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being.

4. Intellectual Courage : Intellectual courage encompasses the willingness to challenge conventional wisdom, question authority, and pursue truth and knowledge despite the risks of criticism, ridicule, or social ostracism. It involves critical thinking, open-mindedness, and intellectual independence. Intellectual courage includes the following dimensions:

• Critical Thinking Courage : Individuals demonstrate critical thinking when they question assumptions, analyze evidence, and evaluate arguments rigorously, even when doing so challenges prevailing beliefs or ideologies.
• Curiosity Courage : This form of courage involves cultivating a thirst for knowledge, exploration, and intellectual inquiry, embracing uncertainty, ambiguity, and complexity as opportunities for growth, discovery, and innovation.
• Dissent Courage : Scholars, scientists, and activists exhibit dissent when they challenge authority, expose corruption, or advocate for unpopular ideas or perspectives, contributing to intellectual diversity, progress, and social change.

The Development of Courage

Courage is not merely an innate trait but a dynamic quality that evolves through personal experiences, environmental influences, and intentional effort. Understanding how courage develops illuminates the factors contributing to individuals’ ability to confront fear, navigate challenges, and act with resilience and integrity .

1. Early Childhood and Family Environment

• Parental Influence : Children learn about courage from their parents and caregivers. Parents who encourage their children to try new things, face challenges, and express themselves freely contribute to the development of courage.
• Modeling Courageous Behavior : As they face their own anxieties, stick up for what they believe in, and overcome adversity, parents who model courage and resilience for their children are incredibly influential role models.

2. Exposure to Adversity and Challenges

• Facing Fear : Encouraging children to attempt new things and leave their comfort zones increases their resilience and confidence, often leading to the development of courage as they confront and overcome their fears.
• Learning from Failure : Experiencing failure and setbacks is essential to developing courage. Children who learn to view failure as an opportunity for growth and persist in facing challenges develop greater resilience and determination.

3. Socialization and Peer Influence

• Peer Relationships : Interactions with peers allow children to practice courage and learn from one another. Being part of a supportive peer group where individuals feel safe taking risks and being themselves fosters courage development.
• Social Norms and Expectations : Societal and cultural norms influence how courage is perceived and valued. Cultures celebrating bravery, compassion, and standing up for others create an environment where courage is encouraged and rewarded.

4. Education and Personal Growth

• Education for Empowerment : Children’s resilience and confidence increase when encouraged to attempt new things and leave their comfort zones. Encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and self-expression empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and others.
• Self-Reflection and Self-Awareness : Developing courage requires self-awareness and introspection. Encouraging individuals to reflect on their values, strengths, and areas for growth helps them understand their capacity for courage and resilience.

5. Inspiration and Role Models

• Exposure to Inspiring Stories : Learning about brave people who have triumphed over hardships and impacted society encourages and inspires others to develop courage in their own lives.
• Mentorship and Guidance : Having mentors or role models who provide support, encouragement, and guidance can significantly influence the development of courage. Mentors help individuals navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop the confidence to pursue their goals.

The Impact of Courage

Understanding the profound impact of courage illuminates its significance in fostering personal growth, promoting social justice, and fueling collective resilience.

• Personal Growth and Resilience : Courage empowers individuals to confront fear, overcome obstacles, and embrace challenges, fostering personal growth, self-confidence, and emotional resilience.
• Social Change and Justice : Acts of courage can spark social movements, challenge injustice, and advocate for marginalized communities, driving progress toward equality, human rights, and social justice.
• Inspirational Influence on Others : Courageous actions inspire and motivate others to overcome their fears, pursue their goals, and stand up for their beliefs, creating a ripple effect of courage and empowerment within communities and society.
• Enhanced Well-being and Mental Health : Embracing courage enables individuals to cultivate a sense of agency, purpose, and meaning, contributing to greater well-being, psychological resilience, and fulfillment.
• Leadership and Influence : Courageous leaders inspire trust, mobilize collective action, and navigate uncertainty with integrity and conviction. They drive positive change and innovation in organizations, communities, and society.
• Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding : Courageous individuals and leaders facilitate dialogue, bridge divides, and promote reconciliation in conflict-affected areas, fostering understanding, cooperation, and sustainable peace.
• Empowerment of Marginalized Voices : Courageous advocacy amplifies the voices and experiences of marginalized groups, challenges systemic oppression, discrimination, and inequality, and promotes inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment.
• Historical Legacy and Cultural Impact : Courageous acts shape history, leaving a lasting legacy of bravery, resilience, and moral integrity that inspires future generations and informs cultural narratives of heroism and sacrifice.
• Fostering Innovation and Creativity : Courage encourages individuals to explore new ideas, take risks, and challenge conventional thinking, driving innovation, creativity, and progress in various fields and industries.
• Overcoming Adversity and Trauma : Courage enables individuals to confront and heal from trauma, adversity, and hardship, transforming pain into resilience, growth, and opportunities for positive change.

Showing Courage in Different Scenarios

Courage manifests in various forms across real-world scenarios, requiring individuals to confront fear, adversity, or uncertainty with resilience, integrity, and determination. Here are several examples of how individuals can demonstrate courage in different contexts:

• Standing Up to Bullying : A student who intervenes to stop bullying and stands up for a harassed peer demonstrates moral courage and empathy despite potential social backlash or retaliation.
• Speaking Up in Meetings : An employee who shares a dissenting opinion or challenges conventional wisdom in a team meeting displays intellectual courage, contributing to innovative thinking and problem-solving within the organization.
• Making a Career Change : The bravery of a professional who dares to go on a new professional route or launch a business lies in their willingness to embrace uncertainty, let go of comfort, and follow their passion and gratification.
• Participating in Protests : People show collective courage in facing systemic injustices and demanding change when they participate in nonviolent protests or marches supporting social justice causes like environmental sustainability, LGBTQ+ rights, or racial equality.
• Supporting Marginalized Communities : Allies who actively support and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, whether through fundraising, volunteer work, or advocacy efforts, exhibit courage by challenging privilege, fostering inclusivity, and promoting equity and social change.
• Fighting for Human Rights : In the face of persecution and repression, human rights activists and defenders who risk their lives and well-being to reveal human rights violations, safeguard civil freedoms, and promote the rights of marginalized groups exhibit remarkable moral bravery.
• Facing Personal Challenges : Individuals who confront personal challenges, such as addiction, mental illness, or trauma, with courage and resilience by seeking help, undergoing therapy, and committing to self-improvement and healing demonstrate inner strength and determination in overcoming adversity.
• Embracing Vulnerability : Those who courageously embrace vulnerability, authenticity, and emotional openness in their relationships and interactions, despite the risk of rejection or judgment, foster deeper connections, trust, and intimacy with others.
• Taking Risks for Growth : Whether traveling alone, pursuing a creative project, or going back to school, people who push themselves beyond their comfort zones, take chances, and follow their passions or aspirations show courage by accepting uncertainty and welcoming personal development and self-discovery.
• First Responders : Firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other first responders who bravely rush into dangerous situations to save lives, provide aid, and protect the public exhibit unparalleled physical and moral courage in life-threatening emergencies.
• Medical Professionals : Healthcare professionals who risk their health and safety to provide vital medical care and support to patients during health crises, epidemics, or natural disasters are models of bravery, compassion, and selflessness in helping others.
• Community Resilience : Communities that come together to support one another after disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or terrorist attacks, demonstrate collective courage, solidarity, and resilience in rebuilding and healing from trauma and devastation.

Cultivating Courage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Courage is a quality that can be nurtured and developed over time through deliberate practice, self-reflection, and intentional action. Here’s a step-by-step guide with real-time insights and examples to help individuals cultivate courage in their lives:

• Step 1: Reflect on Personal Values and Goals (Day 1 – Day 2): Reflect on your core values, aspirations, and long-term goals. What is truly important to you? What do you hope to achieve or experience in your life? Example: Spend an hour journaling about your values and goals, jotting down thoughts, feelings, and aspirations.
• Step 2: Identify Areas of Fear or Resistance (Day 3 – Day 4): Identify specific areas where fear or resistance may be holding you back from pursuing your goals or taking necessary risks. What are you afraid of? What obstacles do you perceive? Example: List three areas where you feel hesitant or fearful, such as public speaking, pursuing a new career path, or confronting a difficult conversation.
• Step 3: Set Small, Actionable Goals (Day 5 – Day 7): Divide your more ambitious objectives into more doable, smaller stages that you may do to face your concerns and develop bravery progressively. Start with small, low-risk actions that align with your values and aspirations. Example: Commit to speaking in one team meeting or signing up for a public speaking workshop to improve your communication skills.
• Step 4: Practice Mindfulness and Self-Compassion (Day 8 – Day 10): Cultivate mindfulness and self-compassion to cultivate resilience and emotional well-being. Practice self-awareness and self-acceptance, acknowledging your fears and vulnerabilities without judgment. For example, Spend 10 minutes daily practicing mindfulness meditation or self-compassion exercises, focusing on your breath and offering yourself kindness and understanding.
• Step 5: Challenge Negative Self-Talk (Day 11 – Day 14): Challenge negative self-talk and limiting beliefs undermining your confidence and courage. Replace self-doubt with affirmations and empowering beliefs that reinforce your strengths and capabilities. For example, when you think, “I’m not good enough,” challenge that belief with evidence of your past successes and strengths.
• Step 6: Take Calculated Risks (Day 15 – Day 21): Confront your concerns and push yourself beyond your comfort zone by taking measured risks. Start with small, incremental challenges and gradually increase the difficulty level as you build confidence. For example, Offer to take the lead on a work project, attend a networking function to make new friends, or take up a new, scary hobby or activity.
• Step 7: Seek Support and Accountability (Day 22 – Day 28): Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or mentors who encourage and challenge you to grow. Share your goals and progress with them and enlist their support and accountability. For example, Join a support group, accountability partner, or coaching program where you can share your experiences, receive feedback, and celebrate your victories with like-minded individuals.
• Step 8: Reflect on Progress and Celebrate Successes (Day 29 – Day 30): Take time to reflect on your progress and celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Acknowledge the courage it took to face your fears and take action towards your goals. Example: At the end of each month, review your accomplishments, write a journal about your experiences, and celebrate your growth and resilience.

Challenges to Courage

For those who want to develop bravery and perseverance in the face of hardship, it is crucial to comprehend and navigate these obstacles. Here are some common obstacles to courage:

• Societal Pressures and Norms: Social expectations and norms often discourage individuals from deviating from the status quo or challenging established beliefs, inhibiting the expression of courageous acts and dissenting opinions.
• Fear of Failure and Rejection: People who fear failing, receiving negative feedback, or being rejected can become immobilized and refrain from taking chances or achieving their objectives. This may also cause them to lose confidence and become less inclined to take risks.
• Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Conflicts: Individuals may face ethical dilemmas and moral conflicts that test their values and principles, requiring them to make difficult decisions that involve personal sacrifice or conflict with societal expectations.
• Comfort Zone Bias: Humans naturally tend to seek comfort and security, which can lead to complacency and a reluctance to step outside familiar environments or routines. This can stifle opportunities for growth and courageous action.
• Lack of Support and Encouragement: A lack of support or encouragement from peers, family members, or social networks can diminish individuals’ confidence and motivation to act courageously, leaving them feeling isolated or unsupported in their endeavors.
• Internal Doubt and Self-Limiting Beliefs: Negative self-talk, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs can undermine individuals’ confidence in their abilities and potential, creating internal barriers to taking risks or pursuing their aspirations with courage and conviction.
• Power Dynamics and Authority Figures: Hierarchical power structures and authority figures may intimidate individuals and discourage them from challenging injustice or speaking truth to power, perpetuating systems of oppression and injustice.

Courage is not just a quality; it is the lifeblood of human progress and resilience. The force propels individuals to confront fear, challenge injustice, and forge a better future. Despite the obstacles and fears that may confront us, courage urges us to step forward, speak out, and act with conviction. Through courage, big and small, we shape our world and inspire others to do the same. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that courage resides within each of us, waiting to be awakened and unleashed. In embracing courage, we unlock our true potential and contribute to a world filled with hope, compassion, and possibility.

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How to Find and Practice Courage

• Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries

It’s a behavior you can learn.

Leadership expert, coach, and psychologist Manfred Kets de Vries explains that what makes a person courageous is a combination of genetic predisposition, acquired psychological characteristics, social norms, and the context of the decision requiring courage. He argues that courageous behavior, in which the person chooses a course of action that involves accepting risk in order to protect or benefit others, is learnable and offers a number of techniques that he has found effective in helping people find their courage.

In these difficult times, we’ve made a number of our coronavirus articles free for all readers. To get all of HBR’s content delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Daily Alert newsletter.

One of my former students, the CEO of a large, diversified industrial company recently sent me an email to say that he believed “the pandemic was the moment to show the people in the company that management really cared.”

• MV Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries is a management scholar, a psychoanalyst, and an executive coach. He is the Distinguished Clinical Professor of Leadership Development and Organizational Change at INSEAD.

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The Entrepreneur Courage Quote by Alan Cohen Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
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“It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power.” Alan Cohen

The quote by Alan Cohen reflects a powerful truth about change in the business arena. Change can be a demanding yet necessary action toward acquiring triumph. It requires fearlessness to let go of the ordinary and embrace the unexplored, but it is worth the struggle.

Change is an essential process in any business background. With it, companies become more active and able to adapt to their changing environment. As the world and technology mature, businesses must evolve to remain competitive. This often requires taking risks and completing modifications that can be uncomfortable and difficult but can potentially bring new prospects. When it comes to modification in business, it is vital to assess the potential risks and rewards of any decision (Weerawardena et al., 2021). Furthermore, transformation can convey new concepts and chances but lead to failure A business must be qualified to take the gamble of loss to produce advancement. In addition, it is essential to consider the potential for resistance to change from employees, customers, and other stakeholders. People often oppose change because it is unfamiliar and can disrupt existing processes (Osterwalder et al., 2020). However, it is vital to recognize that evolution can bring about favorable outcomes. Change can conduct to new products, services, and strategies that can help a company expand and succeed. Moreover, it can help a company stay ahead of the competition and sustain with technological advancements.

In conclusion, the quote by Alan Cohen is a reminder that change can be challenging but is ultimately essential to gain success in the business arena. It takes courage to reduce of the routine and embrace the new, but it can be well worth the effort. Businesses must be ready to take chances and make adaptions to stay competitive and preserve with technological advancements. By doing so, they can open the door to new opportunities and more tremendous success.

Osterwalder, A., Pigneur, Y., Smith, A., Etiemble, F. (2020). The invincible company: Hoe to constantly reinvent your organization from the world’s best business models. John Willey & Sons.

Weerawardena, J., Salunke, S., Haigh, N., & Mort, G. S. (2021). Business model innovation in social purpose organizations: Conceptualizing dual social-economic value creation . Journal of Business Research , 125 , 762–771. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2024, September 5). The Entrepreneur Courage Quote by Alan Cohen. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-entrepreneur-courage-quote-by-alan-cohen/

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IvyPanda . 2024. "The Entrepreneur Courage Quote by Alan Cohen." September 5, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-entrepreneur-courage-quote-by-alan-cohen/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Entrepreneur Courage Quote by Alan Cohen." September 5, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-entrepreneur-courage-quote-by-alan-cohen/.

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Courage to accept and decision to improve are two keys to success.

Success! How does it can be achieved? What makes one to get that fruit? Nothing in this world is complicated until it is done. That is only our perception to think of the complexity. The only way to improve tomorrow is to know what you did wrong today.

Note: We have presented this essay in a bullet format for easy assimilation of points made

• Albert Einstein says,” Mistakes are the proofs that we are learning”.
• The person who accepts and corrects that mistakes become masters in the domain.
• Only when the mistakes are agreed upon our side, it would eventually pave way for learning and sustainably we can improvise in the stepping stones of success.
• Many of us will be stubborn in doing things and not let anybody else’s ideas to upgrade the present level of position in the ladder.
• Even though this is a competitive world, everyone has a different destination and the path everyone takes up will also be different.
• Education doesn’t stop with graduation or a doctoral degree. Education by the other way is unlimited learning and that comes from who is capable of accepting his own actions.
• That is a courageous outcome of an individual to seek success. A responsible person must learn to unlearn what he has learnt.
• Sometimes we need to go down a few grades to learn something new. And to go down, we need courage to accept to go down the grades.
• None of us in this world has been created to be idle. We must perform things happen in front of the world’s eyes to have a worth for our living.
• Hence, we should think of success without no other option. It is the rent we pay to live on this earth.
• Once we get the agreeableness on mistakes or the things we do on our behalf, we will have an optimistic view of correcting things.
• It will not only end up in correcting the things alone, it will subsequently lead to improvise the skills or the information that we are lacking.
• It is not that the information is absent with us; it is that we are lagging behind it but when once that push or pull happens, it will create a drive to manage all sort of obstacles in accepting the things of reality.
• That created drive is called the courageous act. One that courageous act gets pregnant, the decision for improvising will be delivered.

There are some steps to get succeed by following the principle ‘Courage to accept and decision to improve’:

• We need to look within and around to foresee our mistakes or the kind of acts that we are performing.
• We should not react so hard once our acts are termed wrong by others.
• We need to be patient enough to look for our acts when there exists criticism.
• We need to have a self-analysis pointing out the acts and its effects.
• Once we realize that some acts are wrong, we must accept them and we need to make sure that we cannot hold ourselves to search for the reasons to make the wrong acts to be correct.
• We should pacify our guiltiness of doing those acts and look for rectifying those mistakes.
• Agreeableness to the acts make us courageous enough to seek upon various options to make correct decisions.
• Once we implement the correct decision, it will lead to further improvement.
• As improvement happens, the fruits of success can be tasted.

There are yet other things that rely on unlocking the success with the keys of courage to accept and decision to improve. Optimism – the way to look upon everything in a positive way. The decision must be practical and reliable enough that ensures the perfect probability of happening with extreme correctness. Self-consciousness – must in doing things to maintain the ease of upgrading; and many more. Procrastination is also a big threat to success. Keeping these things in mind, we can pursue success.

- SRISHAKTHI.M

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[WEEK 4] ESSAY 8: Theme – Courage to accept & dedication to improve are two keys to success | BRAINSTORMING ON ETHICS & ESSAY (BEE) by Sunil Oberoi Sir

• June 12, 2021

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As part of our new initiative, BRAINSTORMING ON ETHICS & ESSAY (BEE) , here we have come up with the  Eighth session .

BEE is a FREE ONLINE (YOUTUBE) initiative, exclusively for Essay and Ethics curated by IASbaba’s renowned faculty member, Shri Sunil Oberoi Sir (former IAS Officer) .

The Eighth essay focuses on the theme, ” .

Sunil Oberoi Sir has worked on Civil Services Reforms in India with UNDP and DoPT. He was a government nominee in interview boards and Examiner in various govt. exams. He was also associated with induction training of new entrants of Civil Services and In-Service training of Senior Civil Servants.

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Courage to accept and dedication to improve are two keys to success | UPSC Mains Essay Preparation PDF Download

“There are two types of people who will tell you that you cannot make a difference in this world: those who are afraid to try and those who are afraid you will succeed." ~ Ray Goforth

Introduction

Success has been defined in different words by different experts. However, success, no matter what, implies movement from the present state to a better or more improved state. A primary condition to success is the dedication to succeed or the dedication to improve. But all our dedication and efforts will come to naught, if we do not know what exactly we want to improve upon. In fact, that is the case with most of people. They want success but are not ready to accept the area where their potential for success lies. Therefore, most often we mess up our efforts towards achieving success with our ostrich like approach.

The Enemy of Success

What is it that we do not want to face? What is it that we do not have the courage to accept? No man is perfect. We all have follies and weaknesses. There are ghosts haunting some dark recesses of our minds. We do not want to confront them. We fear the acceptance of those weaknesses and realities will crumble our personality and dent our reputation. We ignore our limitations and let the delusion grow into a huge monster, our greatest enemy of success. We needn’t worry about others who tell us we cannot succeed. The real enemy of our success lies within us. It works with a grand strategy. It offers us everything that may look attractive. It gives us intoxicants and bad habits. It robs us of our critical ability to think and question. In the process, we go on adding numberless weaknesses that we never think about; and eventually suffer to realize success has drifted irretrievably far from us. The enemy within is not done yet. It next robs us of our courage to accept this. So long as we do not accept, we fail to see the demons that have taken control of our mind and courage; and, finally, languish in the hell of our making with no motivation to improve.

Success Needs Courage

Given that no man, howsoever great, is ever perfect, the successful ones are those that sooner or later confront their inner enemies head on. Gandhi, the apostle of non-violence, was not free from vices either; only, he was courageous enough to accept the flaws of his character and to make a concerted effort to overcome all of those. That was how he could move ahead on the path of success. In his autobiography, Gandhi describes his addiction to smoking, fascination with the western lifestyle, and consumption of meat and alcohol. He also tells us of his realization that became the turning point in his life. Gandhi writes that he once used violence on his wife and felt so ashamed that he vowed non-violence for life, by letter and spirit. How many of us have an act of similar courage to accept our weaknesses as Gandhi had? Gandhi was Gandhi not so much for his merits as for his courage to accept his faults. Let us see this point more clearly in the context of the Chauri Chaura incident. Gandhi was proud that he had been leading a non-violent non-cooperation movement in India. Since non-violence was his principled stand, he did not want to comprise with it to the slightest extent. The non-cooperation movement had been highly successful so far, and the freedom movement leaders were confident that it had shaken the British might. Then, violence broke out at Chauri Chaura. Since the movement was at its peak, no Indian leader favored withdrawing it for one odd incident. But, Gandhi insisted that the movement had to be instantly withdrawn because the violence had said it loud and clear, that it was a failure. Ultimately, the movement was withdrawn. It shows Gandhi’s unusual courage to accept. It takes more courage to accept failure when someone is at the peak of the success. It is clear, Gandhi’s experiment with non-violence became so successful mainly because he had the twin traits – the courage to accept and dedication to improve.

What is true of Gandhi’s life is true of everyone’s life. What is true of big movements based on strong ideologies like non-violence is also true of simple things in life. We all are victims of bad habits that may be ignored by others and us. Some of us speak lies. Some of us make excuses. Some of us don’t mind cheating in an exam, if help comes by. Some of us are never on time. Some of us lack discipline and punctuality. In other words, nearly all of us are victims of one or more of these small follies that remain with us life-long because we have neither faced them or accepted them courageously nor dedicated ourselves to improve. In fact, we fail to realize that what we call these minor issues can cause enormous damage. A habitual liar, if unchecked, turns into a big liar and gets caught on the wrong side of the law someday. Those who get away with excuses after committing a wrong get tempted to commit a bigger wrong every time and are very likely to end up as wanted criminals. When we lack the courage to accept, we are slowly also building resistance against what we do not want to accept. When we have built up a strong resistance, we would have also crossed the stage of a dilemma with the result that we then proudly wear our weakness on our sleeve. It is a self-destructive stance, and it blinds us to the ultimate doom we would invariably be heading to. However, it is never too late; and one gets several opportunities to accept and amend.

In a nutshell, if we want to succeed in any endeavor, we must introspect and determine where we stand in that domain. If I want to be a successful singer, I must introspect to judge without bias where I stand.  There may be some aspects of singing I would be weak in. If I have the courage to accept the reality, it will help me dedicate my efforts to improve upon that weakness. Success will not elude me then.

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Resilience: the key ingredient of success.

• If I only had one strength that I could choose, I would choose resilience.
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If I only had one strength that I could choose, I would choose resilience. Resilience is the shock absorber for tough times, and there surely will be tough times occasionally. The only people who don’t experience bumpy waters are people who are not doing anything. The rest of us are out there trying to do outsized things and that, by definition is fraught with danger and the very real possibility of failure. Sometimes that failure is public. Sometimes it’s private. But either way, it always hurts.

And, when it stings like that it is hard not to think about giving up, no matter how brave we are or how committed. Heartbreak can send us into a tailspin emotionally. Resilience is the tool that helps us level off and find smooth air and keep flying. Without it every failure would stop us dead in our tracks.

I loved Angela Duckworth’s book, Grit. Her thesis is really powerful: No matter our backgrounds or educational institution or family or how we were brought up, only one thing truly determines our success or failure in this life. It’s the ability to finish.

Resilience is the key to finishing. It shows up in our self-talk. When we fail there are always people around us who feel bad for us and some of them, though well meaning, might even suggest that we abandon our mission and find another one, one that is less difficult and less risky. That’s when we should begin to talk to ourselves about all of it. Cue the Rocky music! We can do this! While we pick ourselves up off the mat you can almost see our lips moving as we deliver the internal speech that helps reset us, that reminds us that we are just the right person (maybe even the only person) who can get this done.

Another key to resilience is to find at least one other person who believes that we can do it, whatever it is. You know who I am talking about. These are true believers. They don’t roll their eyes when you say you are planning to (fill in the blank here with the requisite over-the-moon task). Yes, they’ll be honest, but what they really want to do is to look you straight in the eye and tell you how great you are and how you can finish the task. I love those people! And, I have to say that I have had more than my share of them though the years.

One time, back when I first began my speaking career, I spoke at a big Inc. Magazine event. The attendees were told to rank all the speakers at the event when it was over. I found out that I was dead last! I was embarrassed and I started second guessing myself a little. It shook me. Rattled, I called a good friend, one of those people who really believed in me but who I knew wouldn’t spare my feelings to tell the unvarnished truth. He suggested that I take myself to the woodshed and spend some time thinking about what went wrong and get busy fixing it. No mention of quitting or walking away. Not once.

I did exactly that and a couple of years later I mustered up my courage to go back to the very same guy who booked me in the Inc. event before. When I called him, I got a very nice surprise. He told me that he had been hearing great things lately about a speaker out there on the circuit. That speaker? Me.

I went back and hit it out of the park.

That was a great lesson for me. I came from some pretty small beginnings, but I have always stretched myself to do more and be more. Today I have written six books and I am a board member of a NYSE company. From where I started that would have been unthinkable.

But here’s why it happened. I was relentless. I figured out my mission and I never stopped pursuing it, even to this day. I have weathered some wicked storms along the way.

Resilience has been my shelter. Make it yours too. Stay with it. Fix your self-talk so that if nobody else is around you can make yourself believe that it’s all okay and that you can still win. Find at least one friend who feels the same way.

Then, get going. It’s a great big world out there. It needs what you have to offer. Make a difference, because you can.

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Essay on Perseverance

Students are often asked to write an essay on Perseverance in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Perseverance

Understanding perseverance.

Perseverance means to continue doing something despite difficulties. It’s like a small boat in a stormy sea, not giving up but fighting against the waves.

The Importance of Perseverance

Perseverance is crucial in life. It helps us overcome challenges and reach our goals. Without it, we may give up too soon and miss opportunities.

Perseverance in Action

Imagine you’re learning to ride a bike. You’ll fall many times, but if you persevere, you’ll eventually succeed. This is the power of perseverance.

In conclusion, perseverance is the key to success. It helps us to stay focused and achieve our dreams.

250 Words Essay on Perseverance

Introduction.

Perseverance is an invaluable human trait, often seen as the ability to steadfastly endure hardships to achieve goals. It serves as the backbone of success, enabling individuals to navigate through life’s challenges and uncertainties.

The Essence of Perseverance

Perseverance metamorphoses dreams into reality. It is not about the absence of failures or difficulties, but rather the resilience to continue despite them. It’s the audacity to keep trying, the tenacity to keep pushing, and the endurance to withstand the storm. It’s the grit that transforms ordinary individuals into extraordinary achievers.

Perseverance and Success

Perseverance is often the distinguishing factor between success and failure. It is the driving force that propels individuals to overcome obstacles and reach their goals. Success is seldom achieved overnight; it’s the culmination of consistent effort, unwavering dedication, and relentless pursuit.

Perseverance in the Face of Failure

Failure is an inevitable part of life. However, perseverance teaches us to view failure not as a dead-end but as a stepping stone to success. It encourages us to learn from our mistakes, adapt, and persist in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, perseverance is the lifeblood of achievement. It is the force that fuels the pursuit of dreams, the courage that confronts failure, and the resilience that transforms adversity into opportunity. It is, indeed, the key to unlocking the door to success.

500 Words Essay on Perseverance

The significance of perseverance.

Perseverance is a critical determinant of success. Whether in academics, sports, business, or personal life, perseverance plays a pivotal role. It is the driving force that keeps us going even when the odds are stacked against us. It is perseverance that turns the impossible into possible, the unattainable into attainable.

Perseverance is also a testament to one’s character. It shows a person’s resilience, determination, and tenacity. It is a reflection of one’s belief in their goals and their willingness to work hard for them.

Perseverance and Failure

Thomas Edison, the inventor of the electric light bulb, failed a thousand times before he succeeded. When asked about his failures, Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” This statement epitomizes the essence of perseverance.

Perseverance in the Modern World

In the fast-paced, result-oriented modern world, perseverance is more important than ever. In a culture that often values quick results and instant gratification, the ability to stay committed to long-term goals is crucial.

Perseverance is a virtue that can be cultivated and nurtured. It requires a shift in mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. It requires the ability to stay focused on our goals, even when progress seems slow or non-existent.

In the end, perseverance is not just about achieving our goals. It is about who we become in the process. It builds character, fosters resilience, and teaches us the value of hard work and dedication. As the saying goes, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” It is perseverance that ensures we keep taking those steps, no matter how difficult the journey may be.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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How to Be Successful in Reaching Your Goals

9 Psychological Strategies to Get Ahead in Life

Build a Growth Mindset

Improve your emotional intelligence, develop mental toughness, strengthen your willpower, focus on intrinsic motivations, set achievable goals, nurture traits linked to high potential, cultivate strong social support, avoid burnout.

Success is often defined as the ability to reach your goals in life, whatever those goals may be. In some ways, a better word for success might be attainment, accomplishment, or progress. It is not necessarily a destination but a journey that helps develop the skills and resources you need to thrive.

At a Glance

There are many different tactics for how to be successful in life, but the strategy that works best for you may depend on what success means to you . If you think of success as doing well at work or earning a high salary, your professional goals and accomplishments will take priority.

While professional success can be one piece of the puzzle, it leaves out many other important areas of life. Family, romantic relationships, academics, and athletics are just a few areas where people may strive for success. Your definition of success may vary, but many might define it as being fulfilled, happy, safe, healthy, and loved.

While there is no single right way to be successful, you can improve your chances by building a growth mindset, improving your emotional intelligence, developing mental toughness, and strengthening your willpower, among other strategies.

Because goals are self-created, what people view as success can vary depending on their needs, goals, and situation. There may not be a perfect combination of ingredients that can guarantee success. Still, there are some basic steps you can follow that can improve your chances of being successful in life, love, work, or whatever happens to be important to you.

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Research by psychologist Carol Dweck suggests that there are two basic mindsets that influence how people think about themselves and their abilities: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset .

People who possess a fixed mindset believe that things such as intelligence are static and unchangeable. Those with a fixed mindset believe that success isn't a result of hard work—it's simply a consequence of innate talents.

Because they believe that such talents are something people are either born with or without, they tend to give up more easily in the face of a challenge. They quit when things do not come easily because they believe that they lack the inborn skills needed to excel.

Those who have a growth mindset, on the other hand, feel that they can change, grow, and learn through effort. People who believe that they are capable of growth are more likely to achieve success. When things get tough, they look for ways to improve their skills and keep working toward success.

People with a growth mindset believe that they have control of their life, while those with a fixed mindset believe that things are out of their control.

What can you do to build a growth mindset?

• Believe that your efforts matter . Rather than thinking their abilities are fixed or stuck, people who have a growth mindset believe that effort and hard work can lead to meaningful growth.
• Learn new skills . When faced with a challenge, they look for ways to develop the knowledge and skills that they need to overcome and triumph.
• View failures as learning experiences . People with growth mindsets don't believe that failure is a reflection of their abilities. Instead, they view it as a valuable source of experience from which they can learn and improve. "That didn't work," they might think, "so this time I'll try something a little different."

Get Advice From The Verywell Mind Podcast

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares an exercise that can help you introduce a healthy habit into your life or get rid of a bad habit that's been holding you back.

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Overall intelligence has long been believed to be one factor contributing to success in different areas of life, but some experts suggest that emotional intelligence may actually matter even more.   Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to understand, utilize, and reason with emotions. Emotionally intelligent people are able to understand not only their own emotions, but those of others as well.

To improve your emotional intelligence:

• Pay attention to your own emotions . Focus on identifying what you are feeling and what is causing those feelings.
• Manage your emotions . Step back and try to view things with an impartial eye. Avoid bottling up or repressing your feelings, but look for healthy and appropriate ways of dealing with what you are feeling.
• Listen to others. This not only involves hearing what they are saying, but also paying attention to nonverbal signals and body language.

Mental toughness refers to the resilience to carry on and continue trying even in the face of obstacles. People who possess this mental strength see challenges as opportunities. They also feel that they have control over their own destiny, are confident in their abilities to succeed, and are committed to finishing what they start.

What can you do to improve your mental toughness and increase your chances of being successful in life?

• Believe in yourself . Cut out negative self-talk and look for ways to stay positive and self-encouraging.
• Keep trying . Even when things seem impossible or setbacks keep holding you back, focus on ways that you can develop your skills and keep soldiering forward. One of the key habits of successful people is always looking at setbacks or failures as learning opportunities.
• Care for yourself . Staying strong also means that you treat yourself with kindness. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure you have the things you need to thrive.
• Look for growth opportunities . Learning more about yourself and challenging yourself to try new things can provide opportunities for self-discovery.

In a long-running longitudinal study, psychologists followed a group of children who were identified by their teachers as highly intelligent. As they compared how these subjects fared throughout childhood and into adulthood, researchers found that those who ultimately were the most successful in life shared some key characteristics, including perseverance and willpower.  

These characteristics tend to be part of an individual's overall personality, but they are also something you can improve. Delayed gratification , learning to persist in the face of challenges, and waiting for the rewards of your hard work can often be the key to success in life.

Strategies you can use to improve your willpower include:

• Distraction . For example, if you are trying to lose weight but are having a difficult time staying away from your favorite snacks, distracting yourself during your moments of weakness can be an effective way to avoid giving in to temptation.
• Practice . Willpower is something you can build, but it takes time and effort. Start by making small goals that require will power to achieve, such as avoiding sugary snacks. As you build your ability to use your will power to achieve such small goals, you may find that your willpower is also stronger when working on much larger goals.

What is it that motivates you the most? Do you find that the promise of external rewards keeps you reaching for your goals, or is it the more personal, intrinsic motivators that keep you feeling inspired? While extrinsic rewards such as money, awards, and praise can be helpful, many people find that they are most motivated when they are doing things for personal satisfaction.

If you are doing things because you enjoy them, because you find them meaningful, or because you enjoy seeing the effects of your work, then you are driven by intrinsic motivations. Research has shown that while incentives can be a better predictor of some types of performance, intrinsic motivators tend to be better at predicting performance quality.  

While it is often the external motivators that get people started, it is the internal motivators that kick in and keep people going in order to maintain those new behaviors.

What can you do to boost your sense of intrinsic motivation?

• Challenge yourself . Pursuing a goal that is achievable but not necessarily easy, is a great way to increase motivation to succeed. Challenges can keep you interested in a task, improve your self-esteem, and offer feedback on areas you can improve on. Choosing a slightly challenging task will help motivate you to get started—it feels exciting!
• Stay curious . Look for things that grab your attention and that you want to learn more about.
• Take control . It can be difficult to stay intrinsically motivated to pursue a goal if you don't feel that you have any real influence over the outcome. Look for ways that you can take an active role.
• Don't fear competition . There might be other people trying to reach the same goals as you, but this doesn't mean you should give up. Don't compare your progress or journey to anyone else's. You can look to others for motivation and inspiration, but remember that we all have different paths.

Successful people know that they need to start by having attainable goals to achieve. These goals are not necessarily easy to reach, but by having something to aim for, you will be better able to move forward and overcome obstacles.

When setting goals :

• Be as specific as possible : Choosing a goal like "I'm going to spend 20 minutes a day learning a new language" is more achievable than setting a general goal like "I'm going to learn French."
• Break your goal into smaller steps : Even if you select a specific goal, it can often seem difficult to achieve. Try breaking it into smaller steps that allow you to focus on moving forward without becoming overwhelmed.
• Reward progress : Recognize your successes along the way and allow yourself to enjoy your accomplishments.

One of the biggest reasons people don't follow through on their goals [is] because they aren't what THEY want to do. Make sure your goals align with your personal values and needs, not what you 'think' you should do.

Psychologists have long attempted to link specific traits or personality characteristics to success in life and work. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is one widely used assessment that is often utilized by businesses to screen job candidates. However, research often fails to show that the MBTI actually correlates to performance.  

According to some more recent research, there are certain traits that tend to be consistently tied to success.   Researchers Ian MacRae and Adrian Furnham have identified six key traits that can play a role in how well people do at work.   However, they note that there are optimal levels of these traits. Too little of these characteristics can hinder success, but so can having too much.

If you are trying to learn how to be successful in life, consider what you can do to nurture these key traits:

Conscientiousness

Conscientious people consider the effects of their actions. They also consider how other people will react and feel. You can nurture this trait by:

• Thinking about the consequences of actions
• Considering other people's perspectives

Accepting of Ambiguity

Life is full of situations that are not always clear. People with a great deal of potential for success are better able to accept this ambiguity. Rather than being rigid and inflexible, they are ready to adapt when the unexpected comes their way. You can learn to embrace ambiguity by:

• Challenging your perspectives and considering opinions and ideas other than your own
• Not fearing the unfamiliar
• Being willing to change
• Valuing diversity

Capable of Adjustment

In addition to being able to accept ambiguity, success often hinges on the ability to quickly adjust to change. You can nurture this ability to adjust by:

• Reframing difficult situations, to see them as opportunities to learn and grow rather than simply obstacles to live through
• Being open to change; when plans or situations change, step back and look at ways to cope

The world's most successful people often exemplify great courage. They are willing to take risks, even in the face of potential failure. Research suggests that courageous people utilize positive emotions to overcome fear.   You can improve your tolerance of risk by:

• Quelling negative emotions and focusing on more positive feelings
• Balancing risk with common sense; being cautious and pragmatic can also pay off, depending upon the situation

People who are successful tend to be curious about the world around them. They are always eager to learn more, including new knowledge and skills. You can cultivate your sense of curiosity by:

• Relating tasks to your interests: If you find filing boring, for example, look for a more efficient way to categorize the information to play to your strengths as an organizer.
• Learning new things

Competitiveness

Successful people are able to utilize competition to motivate, but avoid falling prey to jealousy. You can nurture a healthy sense of competition by:

• Focusing on your own improvements; rather than worry about being the best at something, pay attention to your progress
• Being happy when others succeed

Some personality traits and types may be better suited for certain jobs than others. However, no specific personality trait can guarantee success, nor can being low in that trait doom someone to failure.

While there are differences in opinion on just how much personality can be altered , nurturing some of these high potential traits might help you develop skills that can serve you well in many different aspects of your life.

Doing things alone can be difficult, but having a strong social support system can make things easier. Different types of social support can be important for success.

• Emotional support can provide the comfort, security, and empathy you need as you face challenges.
• Esteem support can boost your confidence and encourage you to keep going.
• Informational support can provide mentorship, advice, and other necessary resources to reach your goals.
• Tangible support can help you in active and practical ways. This might involve someone helping you perform a task or taking care of the task for you.

Having even one close person in your life that you feel you can go to in any circumstance is more helpful for your relational well-being than having 10 friends who are surface level. It's about quality, not quantity.

Mentors, friends, co-workers, and family members can cheer you on when things get tough and even offer advice and assistance that can help you improve your chances for success.

Burnout can happen when you are exposed to chronic stress . It can seriously impede success and lead to exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced performance.  

Reduced motivation makes it harder to stick to your goals and can make you feel apathetic and uninterested.

Self-care strategies, such as getting enough sleep and engaging in healthy eating, can relieve some stress. But addressing burnout often requires getting to the bottom of the issue that is causing the problem.

Sometimes, this might mean reassessing your goals. If your goals are creating too much stress or if you are trying to achieve too much too fast, it can be a recipe for burnout. Look for ways to reduce stress, whether that involves shifting your goals, changing your plans, or even doing something more significant like moving somewhere else or changing jobs.

Keep in Mind

There is no single measure of success, and certainly no single answer for how to be successful in life. Yet by looking at some of the habits of successful people, you can learn new tactics and strategies to implement in your own daily life. Cultivate and nurture these abilities, and over time you may find that you are better able to reach your goals and achieve the success you want in life.

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Eagleson C, Hayes S, Matthews A, Perman G, Hirsch CR. The power of positive thinking: Pathological worry is reduced by thought replacement in generalized anxiety disorder . Behav Res Ther . 2016;78:13-18. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2015.12.017

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By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

The Courage to Keep Going

How do we gain the courage to never give up even when facing persistent hardship?

August 31, 2024

We often feel tempted to quit when we're in the middle of such difficult circumstances, but giving up is not consistent with who we are as followers of Jesus Christ. Dr. Stanley shares how the apostle Paul is a perfect example of someone who never gave up despite persistent difficulty and hardship.

Sermon Outline

We all need encouragement at times, especially when hardships weigh us down. That’s why it helps to remember the endurance Paul had when doing the Lord’s work. In this week’s sermon, Dr. Stanley explains how that strength is available to us, too.

Key Passage: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

Supporting Passages: Psalm 32:8; Proverbs 3:5-6; Acts 13:47; 2 Corinthians 11:22-27; Galatians 6:14; Philippians 1:12; Philippians 1:21; Philippians 4:13

How do you respond in painful situations? Even when tempted to give up and walk away, we must remember that, as God’s people, we’re called to a life of patient endurance.

► “If you’re in the process of giving up on your marriage, your job, your children, or your finances, ask yourself, ‘Does quitting fit who I am as a follower of Jesus?’”

When God has called you to do something …

It’s not the time to give up and quit.

There is an answer or a solution for whatever it is God wants to do in your life.

You should do it until He calls you to do something else.

What were Paul’s motivations to keep going?

The awareness of God’s presence

Paul experienced many trials (2 Cor. 11:23-27).

Even when times are tough, we—like the apostle—must believe and say that the Lord is with us (Heb. 13:5). If we doubt God, our strength might waver.

The experience of God’s strength

When we feel weak, we’re more likely to quit. This is why Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit.

For any situation in life, we have the same strength Paul had—that of Almighty God.

The assurance of God’s will

Paul knew the Father had sent him to preach the gospel. That gave him great persistence.

To be able to “keep on keeping on,” we must know that we’re doing what God says to do (Ps. 32:8; Prov. 3:5-6).

The overflowing joy that results from obedience

Paul was able to rejoice because he knew he was in the Father’s will. (See Phil. 4:4.)

God wants the best for His children and will turn all things to our good if we respond rightly.

The life-changing lessons God teaches

Paul went to Arabia to hear directly from the Lord. What he learned there helped him write much of the New Testament.

Instead of quitting, we can think about how sharing what we learn can help others.

The reward God promised

Raising children, working hard, sharing our faith, and giving to the Lord’s work delight our heavenly Father.

There’s never a legitimate reason for believers to give up on something God is calling them to do.

The vision of the cross

Paul attributed everything he had to the work done on the cross of Jesus Christ (Gal. 6:14).

God does not overlook our obedience and willingness to “keep on keeping on.”

Love and devotion to Jesus Christ

Paul said that for him, to live was for Christ to live in and through him (Phil. 1:21).

When people meet us, they need to see Christ in us.

Difficult times require a choice to live courageously.

We can’t give up. Instead, we must believe God will do what He says.

We can pray, “Lord, I’m going to trust Your promise never to leave me. I believe You always tell the truth.”

After Watching

Recite Psalm 28:7, Isaiah 40:29, or 2 Thessalonians 3:3 aloud when you’re feeling weak, and meditate on the strength that’s yours in Christ.

What life-changing lesson are you learning about God through a current challenge? Encourage yourself by reflecting on that truth.

Explore Other Sermons

The Courage To Obey

Learn from the life of Joshua how it always benefits us to obey the principles in God's Word.

Your Convictions About Eternal Security

Dr. Stanley distills the doctrine of eternal security into a few simple truths.

A Call For Courage

When we’re afraid and don’t know what to do, the Lord will encourage us if we trust Him.

Home — Essay Samples — Education — Importance of Education — Education: The Key to Success

Education: The Key to Success

• Categories: Importance of Education Inequality in Education

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Published: Sep 16, 2023

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Empowering individuals, fostering innovation and progress, contributing to societal betterment.

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