COURAGE

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ― Lao Tzu

In the short term it's always far easier to keep things the way that they are, even when making positive changes. Yet in the longterm it's always easier to actually make those changes, even if they are uncomfortable ones.

I call this kind of activity: "Giving a Gift to Your Future Self." For example, every time I think about procrastinating, I remind myself that, whatever it is, I'm not going to want to do it later either, so as a gift to my future self I just do it now.

Every time I consider not brushing my teeth because I'm too tired, I remind myself that my future self wants healthy teeth. 

Every time I think that I want to skip a workout, I remind myself that my future self wants to be in good shape.

Every time I want to shrink back from an amazing opportunity that feeds my passion, but also comes with risk, I remind myself that my future self will always wonder "What If?" So as a gift to my future self I take the plunge despite the fears. 

As T.S. Eliot points out, "Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go," and today's Magic Word reminds us that the only way to build our strengths is to have the courage to take action. Consistently. Boldly. "Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now"

REFLECTION

1. What's the difference between strength and courage? When are you in your Strength Zone? When are you in your Courage Zone? Is it possible to demonstrate courage in an area of your life where you are weak? Can you demonstrate strength in an area where you are not courageous?
2. What gift are you giving your future self today? Is it a gift you're looking forward to receiving?
3. What proverbial "Enchanted Forest Trail" are you currently missing out on because you allowed the fear of uncertainty keep you from becoming who you most want to be?