While we may not all swing from the trapeze, we do take brave actions each day. Photo by Gwen Wooten.
Ladies and gentleman, step right up front ring-side seats at the greatest show on earth. You’ll see extraordinary sights. Falls from the highest of heights, with no net. Dancers swinging above the ground held only by the slightest of ribbons. You’ll see untamed beasts, sequined costumes and elaborately made-up clowns. The huge bass drum beats in the background while the brass horn blares.
The circus was in town the other day. Not the metaphoric circus that many of us describe our lives, but the literal circus with jugglers and clowns and acrobats and elephants.
Regardless of what you think of circus life, there’s an element of BRAVERY and RESILIENCE in the circus world. The lifestyle - not a pretty one by most accounts. The performances - requiring hours and hours of practice to master the craft. The travel. The lack of stability. The lack of resources.
I wondered to myself, how is this different from being an entrepreneur? It’s not, really. Long hours, lack of resources and stability at times, frequent performances.
To truly keep at it, we need…Bravery and Resilience
When you’re overwhelmed or thinking of throwing in the towel, it’s time to remind yourself that you are brave and resilient.
The other day, I was privileged to hear an old friend talk about his personal resilience. He’d been through a dark phase starting with the death of his wife. Here are his suggestions for finding that bravery and resilience:
Acknowledge what you can control. Let go of what you can’t.
Look for positive, inspirational influences.
Take small steps.
Celebrate small successes
Maybe the biggest act of bravery is to live life on your own terms, putting your priorities first and being true to yourself.
Let’s get started creating your bravery and resilience plan.