Worst Excuses We Tell Ourselves

What are simple ways to be braver every day?

 

When we hear the word “bravery,” most of us picture dramatic moments – running into a burning building, giving a big speech, or quitting a job overnight to start a business. But real bravery often looks much quieter. It’s in the everyday choices: speaking up when you’d rather stay silent, trying something new even when you’re nervous, or admitting what you really want in life.

The truth is, courage isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build – like a muscle. And the good news? You don’t have to wait for a huge, life-changing moment to start being braver. You can practice bravery in small, simple ways every single day.

 

Why bravery matters in everyday life

 

Bravery is the difference between staying stuck and moving forward. When fear runs the show, you:

  • Hold back from pursuing goals.
  • Stay silent instead of sharing your truth.
  • Shrink your dreams to fit others’ expectations.

But when you lean into courage, even in small ways, everything shifts:

  • You feel more alive and confident.
  • You open doors to opportunities that once felt “too big.”
  • You model strength and authenticity to your kids and loved ones.

Bravery doesn’t eliminate fear – it teaches you to act with fear.

 

5 Simple Ways to Be Braver Every Day

 

1. Do one small scary thing daily

 

Bravery builds through repetition. Try doing one small thing that scares you every day. It could be sending an email you’ve been avoiding, raising your hand in a meeting, or signing up for a new class.

💡 Example: A mom in my community wanted to start posting her art online but feared judgment. She committed to sharing one sketch a day – nothing fancy. A month later, she not only felt braver but also had a supportive audience cheering her on.

Why this matters: Courage grows when exercised. Tiny risks train your brain to see fear as an invitation, not a stop sign.

 

2. Shift “fear” into “curiosity”

 

Instead of asking, “What if I fail?” ask, “I wonder what will happen if I try?”

This small reframing takes fear out of the driver’s seat. Curiosity invites playfulness and removes pressure.

💡 Example: Instead of thinking, “What if I embarrass myself at the gym?” try, “I wonder how strong I’ll feel after going for a week.”

Why this matters: Curiosity lowers the stakes. It shifts focus from judgment to discovery.

 

3. Celebrate attempts, not just outcomes

 

Bravery isn’t about always winning – it’s about showing up. Every time you try, even if it doesn’t go perfectly, you’ve strengthened your courage muscle.

💡 Example: One mom wanted to pitch herself for podcast interviews. Her first pitch got ignored. Her second got a polite no. But on the third try, she landed a spot. By celebrating the act of pitching itself, she stayed motivated long enough to see results.

Why this matters: When you detach bravery from results, you’re free to try more often – and that’s where growth happens.

 

4. Surround yourself with courage

 

Courage is contagious. When you’re around brave people, their energy rubs off on you. Follow people who inspire you, spend time with friends who push you to grow, and join communities where courage is celebrated.

💡 Example: A woman who wanted to run her first 5K joined a local running group. Being around others who were already doing it made it feel less intimidating – and gave her the push to keep going.

Why this matters: Your environment shapes your courage. Surround yourself with people who normalize brave action.

 

5. Keep a bravery journal

 

Every day, jot down one brave thing you did – even if it felt small. Over time, you’ll build a record of your courage and see proof that you’re capable of more than you think.

💡 Example: One mom wrote down things like “asked for help,” “shared my opinion,” and “took 20 minutes for myself.” Looking back, she realized she was braver than she gave herself credit for.

Why this matters: Evidence builds belief. Seeing your bravery on paper reinforces your identity as a courageous person.

 

Common mistakes that block bravery

 

  • Waiting for fear to go away. Fear rarely disappears before action – it lessens after.
  • Believing courage is for “other people.” Bravery isn’t reserved for superheroes – it’s for anyone willing to take small steps forward.
  • Aiming for giant leaps first. Start with micro-bravery; the big moves will follow.

 

Myth-busting: Everyday courage

 

  • Myth: Brave people aren’t scared.
     Truth: Brave people feel fear – and act anyway.

 

  • Myth: Courage has to be dramatic.
     Truth: The bravest acts are often quiet and personal.

 

  • Myth: If I fail, it means I’m not brave.
     Truth: Attempting something hard is bravery in itself, regardless of outcome.

 

FAQ: How can I be braver every day?

 

Q: What if my fears feel too big to tackle?
 A: Start smaller. Choose one micro-action that nudges you forward. Courage compounds – it grows as you do.

 

Q: How do I handle people who don’t support my brave choices?
 A: Not everyone will understand your growth. Focus on building your own support system with people who encourage you.

 

Q: Can bravery be learned?
 A: Absolutely. Courage is a skill, not a personality trait. The more you practice, the stronger it becomes.

How moms can model bravery for their kids

One of the most powerful reasons to practice everyday courage is the example it sets. Kids don’t just listen to what we say – they watch what we do. When they see us taking risks, trying new things, and facing our fears, they learn that bravery is normal.

  • Show them your process. If you’re nervous about a presentation or trying something new, say it out loud: “I feel a little scared, but I’m going to do it anyway.” This teaches them that courage and fear can coexist.

 

  • Celebrate effort, not just outcomes. When you try something brave – even if it doesn’t work out – acknowledge it in front of them. “I tried, and that’s what matters.” This encourages resilience.

 

  • Encourage them to join you. Invite them into small acts of bravery, like introducing themselves to someone new or trying a new food. Make courage a shared family value.

💡 Example: A mom who was scared of public speaking told her kids, “I’m nervous, but I’m going to be brave.” When she came home, she shared how proud she was for showing up. Her kids later used the same language when they faced something hard.

Why this matters: When you live bravely, your kids see bravery as normal – and they carry that strength into their own lives.

 

A new way forward

 

Bravery doesn’t mean living without fear – it means choosing not to let fear run your life. And the best part? You don’t need a dramatic moment to practice it. You can begin today, in small, ordinary ways, and watch your confidence grow.

 

Your next step

 

If you’re ready to bring more courage into your life, the Fearless You Project is for you. Inside, you’ll discover tools, workshops, and coaching roadmaps that will help you stop letting fear hold you back and start living with boldness and freedom every day.

👉 Join the Fearless You Project today and begin building the courage to live life on your terms.

 

And if you want virtual life coaching strategies for your personal growth in every area of your life: Everything you need to take control of your time, mind, and energy lives inside Inspiring Life Academy: 90+ courses, coaching roadmaps, and resources designed to help you step into your richest life. Join here.

  

🙌🏻 SEE YOUR INSPIRING LIFE ACADEMY SPECIAL HERE

 

With love and belief,

Frances Vidakovic xxx

 

 

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