Life isn’t always easy. From love and loss to work struggles and financial worries, it can sometimes feel that we’re being tested or even tormented. Approaching life with a brave outlook helps you to overcome these challenges and ultimately become the best version of yourself.
Over the years I’ve struggled, made mistakes, and gotten myself into more than my fair share of trouble. By seeking help and focusing on the positives, I’ve made real lasting changes – and you could do the same.
Here’s what it means to live bravely, and why doing so is the right choice for anyone who wants a better life.
What is ‘Brave Living’?
What does being brave mean to you? For many people, it’s a soldier serving his country, a firefighter rushing into an emergency, or a doctor trying desperately to save her patient.
We often associate bravery with selfless acts of courage in the face of extreme danger, yet ordinary people demonstrate extraordinary bravery just by living their everyday lives. In reality, bravery is more about finding ways to survive and even thrive.
It all comes back to that famous saying: “life is 10% about what happens and 90% about how you react to it.” Practicing better emotional responses to the challenges you face will make you a better person and help you to see the world through a more optimistic lens.
How to Live a Brave Life
1. Take Care of Yourself
Self-care is the first step towards living bravely. While some people might tell you to push on through the hard times, there is nothing glamorous about suffering. Put simply, you need energy and a positive mindset if you’re going to work through your troubles.
How you choose to look after yourself will depend on your preferences and personal needs. It could be getting a good night’s sleep, eating healthily, or exercising. It’s also just as important to focus on mental health as it is to look after your body. Try to think in more positive terms about yourself, give yourself compliments, and actively try to be more present in everyday situations.
It’s from this healthier, happier baseline that you’ll be able to start living life on your terms.
2. Ask for Help When You Need It
Opening up to others is the first step towards true bravery. Humans are social creatures and the interactions we have with those around us can have an immeasurable impact on our perceptions of the world.
Rather than trying to tackle your issues alone, you could solve your problems much faster by asking for help. Most people are happy and even honoured to assist other people in their time of need, and you shouldn’t be embarrassed of needing support from time to time.
Whether it’s debt, parenting, addiction, or even just day-to-day worries, asking for help could be the one action that separates you from the better days that are ahead.
3. Don’t Be Afraid of Vulnerability
When I was at my lowest ebb and contemplating the worst, just speaking openly with someone allowed me to see that I had a future. Vulnerability is a superpower, and talking to somebody about your concerns can have a huge impact even if they can’t offer any practical help.
One of the biggest barriers to getting help is the belief that other people will judge us. In reality, the vast majority of people are kind and understanding. Some may even have personal experience of the issues you’re facing and will welcome the chance to connect with someone who went through the same ordeal they did.
Embarrassment is temporary, but love and support can last a lifetime.
4. Raise the Emotional Temperature
Living bravely means seeking help when you need, but there are two sides to every story. Just as others may support you when you need it the most, you should also create a welcoming social environment that allows others to reach out to you when they’re struggling.
Our society would be much healthier and happier if everyone adopted a warmer attitude. Through kind words, selfless acts, and a welcoming approach to others we can improve our communities and provide effective support to those who need it most.
When dealing with other people, treat them as you would want to be treated if you were going through tough times. I call it ‘global human warming’, and it’s arguably the best way to encourage people to reach out and be brave.
Become Your Best Self
We all go through tough times. Regardless of the challenges you may face, taking care of yourself and adopting a positive outlook could help you to overcome adversity and become stronger than ever before.
Everyone wants to lead a happy and fulfilled life and I’m on a mission to help people do just that. Living your best life is within reach, you just have to adopt healthy habits, embrace change, and be brave.
Find your brave and start to change your life forever.
