March’s Theme: Recognizing Courage
“Life shrinks and expands in proportion to one’s courage.” – Anis Nin
“From caring comes courage.” – Lao Tzu
“It takes courage…to endure the sharp pains of self-discovery rather than choose to take the dull pain of unconsciousness that would last the rest of our lives.” – Marianne Williamson
As we bid farewell to March, I chose to focus on the topic of courage for this newsletter and my short video, specifically, how to recognize courage in ourselves. Unmistakably, courage is something that everybody wants – a character strength that fosters respect both others and from within. Courage is generally defined as the ability to do something that we perceive as difficult and frightening.
Six attributes of courage have been defined by mindfulness expert Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D., and include:
1. Feeling Fear Yet Choosing to Act
2. Following Your Heart
3. Persevering in the Face of Adversity
4. Standing Up for What is Right
5. Expanding Your Horizons and Letting Go of the Familiar
6. Facing Suffering with Dignity or Faith
Which of these attributes resonate strongly with you? Are you contemplating or actively taking an action that you believe is difficult or scary?
To gain further insights – I decided to look to nature for examples of courage (as I frequently do). It made me realize that there is quite a bit we don’t understand about the natural world, and that includes aspects of humanity too. To dig a little deeper into the benefits and ‘nature’ of courage, see this short video on recognizing courage.
In my nature-connected coaching work, I always recognize that my client’s commitment to realize those desired changes in their life requires fierce courage. When we put our values and desires into action, courage is required. I know that each of us shows up in this world with personalized values that we strive to honor – courageously taking action in our own ways. I invite you to acknowledge your courage for it is a full expression of the brilliant person you are here to be!
ASK YOURSELF: Where do I recognize and honor my courage?
I am grateful for you, your courageous explorations in personal growth, and your desires to connect with nature!
Thank you Howard Ridenour for sharing your photography with AWN.
Upcoming events include experiential workshops, online courses, and transformational retreats. Individualized Nature-connected Coaching sessions can provide the guidance and support for the changes you wish to make, tailored to your needs in either short-term (1-5 sessions) or longer-term programs (6 months).
Transformational life coaching can bridge the gap between where you are NOW, and where you WANT to be!
Are your interests sparked? Do you have questions? Schedule our Awareness Break-through Session that will provide you ‘crystal-blue-sky’ clarity on your challenges and commitment level to move forward, and let’s explore if we might be a good fit to work together.
If you find value here, please share this newsletter with your friends! (They can subscribe HERE!)
If interested or have questions or feedback, email me at awarenesswithnature@gmail.com.
Be well, wise, and connected to Nature!
Mindy Schlimgen
TESTIMONIALS
“I thoroughly enjoyed my coaching experience…I loved the connection with nature. I highly recommend Mindy and Awareness With Nature for anyone who has things in their life they want to improve upon or understand [and] design a plan and take action.” – E. Rose
“Mindy is extremely insightful; she questioned me in a way that caused me to go deeper and unblock the sources of my resistance so that I am able to be more successful at overcoming challenges in my life. She helped me clarify and create an action plan, and the results were far better than I expected. As she employed a variety of strategies, she brought an awareness to my inner strength. As a result of our encounters, I am both a happier and more enlightened being.” – Cathy Davis
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