Duke TIP Navigator

The official magazine for TIPsters in 4th–6th grade

Turning Fear into Confidence—A Personal Essay

October 14, 2020

Facing obstacles throughout your life is inevitable, and the obstacles you overcome can define who you are as a person. Not only will this build character and self-confidence, it will show others how strong you remained and inspire them to overcome their own challenges.

But overcoming obstacles is no simple task. Most obstacles are incredibly hard and testing. Yet, by overcoming them, you will come to understand why they are important. The significance of overcoming obstacles in life is to make you more grounded, courageous, and wise. For me, one of these life-altering obstacles emerged during my undergraduate years.

I had a serious fear of public speaking. There were times where I would struggle with presentations and in-class discussions. When these sessions would take place, my fear built up in a pressure cooker of discouragement and convulsive anguish. I felt humiliated before my teachers, partners, and most of all, my close friends. I soon realized, however, that the same people who seemed to be the source of my fear became my lifeline, their inspirational words filling my mind and heart with positive thoughts.

Seeing my struggles, my peers tried to build me up, to increase my confidence in myself and convince me that anything, including overcoming my fear of public speaking, could be accomplished with enough enthusiasm and belief in oneself.

The obstacles we face in life can distort how we see ourselves and cripple our ability to face our fears. By facing these conflicts head on, though, we can completely flip their effect on us, transforming them into experiences that strengthen our resilience and push the boundaries of what we think is possible to achieve.

Taking everything into account everything I’ve learned from this experience and many others like it that I’ve encountered in my life, it’s clear that obstacles are impossible to avoid, and when you do encounter them, you must view them as learning opportunities. You might just surprise yourself at how easily you overcome them.

essay about confidence and courage

This post was written by Duke TIP’s outgoing Marketing & Communications intern, Christina Gordon. Christina graduated from North Carolina Central University in the spring of 2020.

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About Duke TIP

The Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) is a nonprofit organization that has served over three million academically talented students in grades 4–12 since it was founded in 1980. Collaborating with educators and parents, TIP helps gifted students assess the extent of their academic abilities with above-grade-level testing, recognizes them for their achievements, and provides them with a variety of enrichment benefits as well as accelerated face-to-face and online educational programs.

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Essay About Courage: Top 5 Examples and 6 Prompts 

Courage covers a range of topics and meanings. Here are examples and prompts to help you write your essay about courage.

Many believe bravery and courage mean the same thing and even use them interchangeably. However, though both describe heroic acts, they are not the same. Where bravery is the lack of fear, courage is taking action despite it. 

Some argue that courage takes more strength because it means sharing your story even though you may be ridiculed, rejected, and misunderstood. It takes courage to admit when you’re hurt or feel lost, vulnerable, and need help. 

If you’re having problems channeling and describing what courage is, here are examples that will assist you in connecting with this subject:

1. My Opinion About Courage by Gary Collins

2. moral courage by fernando wood, 3. courage by benjamin patrick, 4. the importance of courage by saloni, 5. essay on courage by manasi shewale, 1. what does courage mean to you, 2. your most courageous act, 3. a courageous hero, 4. things you are most afraid of, 5. what creates doubt, 6. a time when you failed to show courage and regretted it.

“And even then, she had no grudge against the world. She doesn’t think the world owes her. She never takes money or even grains that she hasn’t earned.”

In this essay, Collins shares his experience with courage through someone named Sunita. Sunita told Collins about her life and what made her who she is. Such as at a very young age, she fought to support herself because no one would have done that for her, and many other tales. 

Her stories made Collins realize how lucky he is and how he should be grateful for the many opportunities that come his way without the need to suffer as she did. He also includes that Sunita lives on to inspire others with her courage.

Check out these essays about beliefs .

“Moral courage is standing up for values such as honesty, fairness, compassion, respect, and responsibility but just having these values are not enough we have to try to put them into practice, and we have to commit to moral principles as well…”

Moral courage is doing what’s right and following what your conscience dictates. Wood has three significant elements of moral courage: principle, endurance, and danger.

He explains moral courage through Geoge Norris, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Youssafzai. These people took risks even if their lives were in danger to follow their conscience and do the right things. Wood instills that moral courage is essential in making a critical move, especially when choosing the greater good.

“Courage is the only thing that gets us through the hard times, and the tempting opportunities. Courage is vital to the evolution of the human population. It is also an essential quality to becoming a successful person.”

Patrick discusses how courage helps a person succeed in life. He mentions that we all have courage, but some use it differently than others.

He gives an example of a girl who plays hockey, where the other members are all boys. They looked down on her because of her gender. But instead of giving up, she took it as a challenge and courageously showed them she could play at their level. She became friends with most of the team, but there was one boy who kept on bullying her. The boy misused his courage, but the girl used her courage to fight him off.

“Courage is mental and moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It is the firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.”

Saloni’s essay shows two kinds of courage: physical and moral. People who depend on physical strength show physical courage. They can protect and help others. If a person is weak, they are not physically courageous. 

On the other hand, one’s honesty connects to their moral courage. They are the ones with convictions and don’t support evil works. Even if you are a weak person, you can still be morally courageous. Unfortunately, this courage is rare nowadays because people are afraid of being attacked mentally and emotionally. To be morally courageous means to be a fighter to go against wrong-doings.

“It is very difficult to keep up your morals and therefore, gather up the necessary courage to fight against the wrong situations. Therefore, in today’s date, it is even rarer to find a person with the proper morals required to live a satisfactory life.”

Shewale shares little acts of courage in our everyday lives – such as a girl who loves to dance but is afraid of the stage or a person who’s readying themselves for a job interview. Courage is not only shown in grand scenes but in small acts that help us survive our daily lives.

The author further discusses events where courage helps in more controversial fields, such as injustices to farmers and students’ bullying. 

If you want to upgrade your writing style, check out these top essay writing tips to level up your essay.

6 Prompts on Essay About Courage

After reading relevant examples in essays about courage, it’s now your turn to try your hand at creating one. Below are prompts that can guide you in your essay writing:

There is no one definition of courage. It differs from each individual, and its meaning is affected by our experiences and knowledge. In this prompt, share the word “courage” and discuss what courage means to you. When do you feel courageous, and why? Then, describe personal experiences of being courageous or stories of courageous people who inspire you.

Think about a time when you were courageous. Create an essay based on this event and describe in detail what happened. Convey your thoughts and feelings, and show why you were courageous. 

Essay About Courage: A Courageous Hero

Write an essay about a hero in your life. This could be a celebrity you admire, a relative or friend, or a teacher in school. Describe why this person is courageous, why you look up to them, and how they inspire you. Make sure to include fine details of their personality and how they act. This will make for an exciting and compelling essay.

The first step to being courageous is acknowledging you are afraid. Then, to get your fears out of the way, you need to identify what and why they exist. This prompt lets you connect with your readers who have the same worries. 

For example, you can share that you’re afraid of rejection, being alone, etc. Then, discuss why and what you plan to do to overcome them. You can also write about how you plan to be courageous while still afraid.

Our greatest challenge to succeeding in something is doubting ourselves. When we doubt ourselves, we start to think of all the things that can go wrong. So we show our courage by being afraid of these negative consequences but still trying and hoping for a good result. 

Share an experience when you still tried, even when you’re unsure. It doesn’t need to have the best ending. You only have to prove that it’s better to try and fail than fail without trying at all. 

There will always be times when we desperately want to be more courageous but fail to do so due to various factors. Write about that experience, share your feelings, and what you’ll do if you have the chance to repeat that situation. 

Do you want to write about another topic aside from courage? Check out this list of best writing topics for students !

essay about confidence and courage

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Courage: the Essence of Inner Strength and Bravery

This essay about courage explores its multifaceted nature beyond heroic tales, delving into its essence in everyday life. It defines courage as the strength to confront fear and make choices aligned with one’s values, emphasizing its subjective and personal dimensions. The essay highlights how courage involves both external actions and internal struggles, shaping individuals and inspiring others. Ultimately, it argues that courage is essential for personal growth, authenticity, and societal progress, challenging us to act despite fear and adversity.

How it works

Courage is often celebrated as a grandiose, almost mythical quality that elevates mere mortals into the realm of heroes. From the valiant charges of knights in folklore to the steadfast resolve of modern-day whistleblowers, the concept of courage permeates our cultural and personal narratives. But what truly defines courage? Is it the absence of fear, or the decision to act despite it?

At its core, courage is the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

This definition, however, only scratches the surface of what courage means in everyday life. Unlike the dramatic depictions we see in movies and literature, real-world courage often manifests in quieter, more personal ways.

One of the fundamental aspects of courage is the confrontation with fear. Fear is a universal experience; it does not discriminate by age, strength, or intelligence. Courage, therefore, isn’t about not feeling fear, but about recognizing it and choosing to move forward in spite of it. This could mean speaking out against injustice, standing up for oneself in a difficult personal relationship, or even pursuing a new career path that seems daunting but fulfilling.

Moreover, courage is context-dependent. What requires courage for one person might not be the same for another. For someone with social anxiety, attending a large gathering can be a profound act of bravery. For others, it might be returning to school later in life, or moving to a new country. This subjectivity is what makes courage so personal and respected; it is tailored to individual challenges and adversities.

Courage also involves a moral dimension—it often requires making choices that align with one’s values, even when those choices are unpopular, difficult, or dangerous. It can mean standing alone, going against the grain of societal expectations, or making sacrifices for the benefit of others. This type of courage is evident in people who blow the whistle on corruption within their organizations, despite the potential personal and professional repercussions.

In addition to facing external challenges, courage also encompasses the internal struggle to overcome personal limitations and self-doubt. This inner battle often goes unseen, but it is just as significant as any physical act of bravery. It involves the resilience to keep going when faced with setbacks or failures, and the strength to be vulnerable. Brené Brown, a researcher and thought leader on vulnerability, argues that showing our true selves requires courage because it exposes us to judgment and rejection.

The transformative power of courage is evident not only in how it changes situations but in how it changes individuals. Acts of courage can lead to a greater sense of self-confidence and a reaffirmation of personal values and beliefs. They can also inspire others to act bravely, creating a ripple effect that promotes more courageous actions within a community or society.

Courage, therefore, is not a one-size-fits-all attribute, nor is it confined to acts of heroism that make headlines. It is deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life, influencing how we face our fears, stand up for what we believe in, and continue to strive towards personal growth and fulfillment. The essence of courage is in the choice to act, the persistence through fear, and the commitment to live authentically in accordance with one’s principles.

In essence, understanding courage gives us a lens through which to view not just our actions but our motivations and fears. It invites us to consider not only how we act when faced with a challenge but why we act in the ways that we do. It challenges us to grow, to be better, and to inspire the same in others. This dynamic and multifaceted nature of courage makes it one of the most admired and essential qualities in human life.

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

Six Ways to Find Your Courage During Challenging Times

“We teach who we are,” says educational philosopher Parker Palmer.

Early in my teaching career, I participated in a series of retreats led by the Center for Courage and Renewal, inspired by Palmer’s book The Courage to Teach . Palmer reminds us that our sense of self plays out in our work every day—and living with courage and integrity means finding balance and alignment between our inner and outer selves. In other words, our identities, values, and beliefs inform the selves we bring to others.

But how do we find the courage to stand up for our coworkers, students, neighbors, family and friends, and ourselves amid exhausting and unprecedented challenges? The truth is, I’m not particularly thrilled with the person I’ve been bringing to work lately. On some mornings, I’m simply looking for the courage to get out of bed.

essay about confidence and courage

If you are like me, there are days when you feel emotionally weary, inept, and cynical—all characteristics of burnout . However, I’m finding that the science of courage offers a psychological lifeline, helping us to clarify what really matters so that we can find a steadier, values-based resolve—and even inspire it in others. I dove into the courage research with teachers in mind, but these tips are for everyone.

Fortunately, courage comes in many forms. Although definitions range, researchers tend to agree that it features three primary components: a risk, an intention, and a goal that may benefit others. In a classic example, a student defends a peer who is being verbally assaulted by a bully, by interrupting the bully and telling them to stop. This purposeful act may come at a cost—perhaps socially or physically.

But courage doesn’t have to look dramatic or fearless. We express it in both bold and quiet ways. In fact, “ general courage ,” the confident or seemingly brazen actions perceived by others, differs from “ personal courage ,” those actions that are courageous in the minds of the actors themselves. It all depends on how you view the challenge in front of you and the fears associated with performing a particular behavior. In other words, these days, some of us may need significant “personal courage” to get out of bed and face the day on behalf of those students we value and care about.

Why is just showing up courageous? Daily stressors can pile up, leading to emotional exhaustion, a sense of detachment from your work, and the feeling that you simply aren’t as capable as you thought you were—and if you don’t feel capable, you may not feel particularly confident. Yet courage is also associated with other positive character strengths , like persistence and integrity.

The good news is that there are many ways to tap into our capacity for courage, whether we are adults or students. Here are six.

1. See yourself as courageous

First, if we describe ourselves as “courageous,” we are more likely to act courageously . In other words, if I tell myself that I’m a courageous person as I park in the school parking lot and walk into my school, it may actually give me a psychological boost and inspire me to meet the day with greater self-assurance.

Alternatively, we can take time to note and label all the courageous actions we have already taken in our lives. For example, when you consider how your childhood struggles inform your current relationships with coworkers or students, or how you made it through college as a single mom, or how you’ve learned to cope with a chronic health issue, you may be more likely to experience positive emotions while reconnecting with personal values and beliefs that can inspire future courageous behaviors.

Consider conducting an inventory of past actions with your students or colleagues so that you can identify and celebrate individual acts of courage together. Then, discuss how those actions influence who you are now and who you want to be.

2. Get comfortable with “mistakes”

We can recognize and celebrate courage with others, but it can also be a very internal, day-to-day experience. One of the most common ways we practice courage at work is in our pursuit of learning and personal growth. Research tells us that fear of failure can negatively correlate with courage, but what if it’s OK to make mistakes—and they are even welcomed learning tools?

Studies indicate that students may benefit from making mistakes (and correcting them) rather than avoiding them at all costs. And when researchers reviewed 38 studies of resilience in response to failure, errors, or mistakes, they found that more resilient individuals had lower levels of perfectionism and a more positive way of explaining past events: “I haven’t solved this long division problem yet, but I’ll try another strategy next.”

Another way to address fear of failure is through a simple practice you can share with your students or colleagues called “ Crumpled Reminder ,” where you write about a recent mistake you made, crumple up a paper representing your feelings about that mistake, and then discuss the ways mistakes strengthen brain activity and help us to learn and grow.

essay about confidence and courage

Crumpled Reminder

Write down a recent mistake and your feelings about it, and then crumple up the paper. Then reflect on how your mistakes help you learn.

Rather than fearing looming “failures,” seeing daily missteps as opportunities for learning frees all of us to appreciate learning for what it is—a process rather than a performance.

3. Keep trying

Courage at work also requires perseverance. As our fears lessen, we are more likely to persist in learning—to keep trying despite the obstacles ahead of us. And perseverance (or persistence), as a character strength, can also be modeled, observed, and developed. In fact, when adults model persistence in working toward a goal, infants as young as 15 months tend to mimic that behavior.

As teachers, we have a lot of power to influence our students’ efforts by sharing our own vulnerabilities while we read a challenging text, our own self-conscious emotions as we outline a timed essay, our stops and starts while solving a word problem, and our commitment to keep going.

And research suggests that teachers’ growth mindsets, or belief that intelligence grows and changes with effort, can be linked to the development of students’ growth mindsets. This more positive, flexible mindset can improve students’ performance at school, boost their well-being and social competence , and even promote kind, helpful, and prosocial actions. All these benefits may bolster our capacity for courageous actions, too.

4. Look for the heroes

Of course, if we are feeling apathetic, anxious, or fearful about stepping up and doing that next best thing at school or in life, it can be helpful to draw inspiration from others—whether near or far, real or fictional.

According to research , the individuals we admire may represent some aspect of our ideal selves as they demonstrate moral courage through difficult times and a desire to do good in the world. They can also inspire us to live more meaningful lives. Studies suggest that seeing images of heroes may move us to sense greater meaning in our lives—and even increase our drive to help others.

Basic social cognitive theory tells us that we are motivated through “vicarious experiences”—as we witness others’ actions. In fact, when adults observe courageous behaviors in their workplaces , like a teacher standing up for a group of students or a colleague advocating for an important policy, they are more likely to see the potential for organizational change and feel inspired to act courageously themselves.

Our students can benefit from models of courage, too. In the “ Who Are Your Heroes? ” lesson from Giraffe Heroes Project , students listen to and present hero stories, while exploring the risks and benefits of courageous acts. Stories like these can communicate shared values , make us more  empathic , and may  encourage us to help others .

5. Clarify your values

You may recognize heroism or courage in others, but sometimes struggle to see it in yourself. If so, it may be helpful to ask yourself a few key questions:

  • What do I value in myself?
  • What do I “stand for”?
  • What is important to me?
  • What are some of my successes and accomplishments?

When researchers measured teachers’ responses to prompts like these, they found that teachers’ anxiety immediately decreased—and they experienced more positive emotions over time when compared to a control group. Teachers’ values drive their goals and behaviors at school, while supporting their well-being and a sense of self-efficacy at work. If we feel clear and capable, we may also feel more courageous.

Philosophers consider courage to be a foundational virtue because it guides us to act on behalf of other virtues or values. In fact, our convictions, values, sense of integrity, honor, and loyalty can all influence our courageous actions. When we experience a threat to our moral code, we are likely to act in a way that upholds our beliefs and values. And the more powerful the belief , the more likely you will not be influenced or swayed by those around you.

You and your students can clarify your values and explore your character strengths through a range of simple practices for both adults and students , like Discovering Your Strengths and Talents , Eight Inner Strengths for Leaders , and Reminders that Encourage Moral Character Strengths .

6. Become part of a social force for courage

Finally, we can act on our values in community. After more than a year of isolation from each other—and the prospect of ongoing public health, environmental, and sociocultural crises—we are finding courage again in groups.

More Education Resources

Visit Greater Good in Education for more information, tips, and practices to support teacher and student well-being. To dive deeper into the research behind these practices and strategies, register for one of our online courses for educators .

Teachers and students are participating in social and emotional communities of practice, circles of courage , and other “ circles ” practices to nurture a sense of belonging, find emotional support, and engage in collective action. Studies indicate that social groups like these promote interdependence, social identity, and cohesion and influence courageous behavior, too.

And one of the most empowering things we can do for our students right now is to support them in being courageous community problem solvers, too.

Tribes Learning Communities  curricula focus on active learning and community building among adults and students to reduce violence and increase kindness. For example, in their lesson “ Put Down the Put-Downs ,” students consider how hurtful name-calling really feels and brainstorm ways to end the problem in their classrooms and school. In this case, perspective taking and empathic responses can lead to more courageous and impassioned student action, cultivating a positive school and classroom climates where everyone is  honored and valued .

Further, in the lesson “ It’s Up to Us to Stick Our Necks Out ,” students share stories about everyday heroes drawn from a free story bank , and then learn to “Be the Story” by selecting, planning, and enacting a service learning project to address a community challenge (such as homelessness, clean air or water, or a need for increased literacy). As we act on our values together, we may feel a greater sense of agency in a world that feels topsy-turvy right now.

During those dark, winter mornings when you really don’t want to crawl out of bed and face the day, remember that courage can also be a very private, personal act. There will always be risks and challenges to face, but what really matters most—in your gut? Is it love, learning, curiosity, compassion, hope? How do these values inform who you are and how you show up in the world?

These are the key questions that can help us to frame our truest intentions—even on our most difficult days.

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About the Author

Headshot of Amy L. Eva

Amy L. Eva, Ph.D. , is the associate education director at the Greater Good Science Center. As an educational psychologist and teacher educator with over 25 years in classrooms, she currently writes, presents, and leads online courses focused on student and educator well-being, mindfulness, and courage. Her new book, Surviving Teacher Burnout: A Weekly Guide To Build Resilience, Deal with Emotional Exhaustion, and Stay Inspired in the Classroom, features 52 simple, low-lift strategies for enhancing educators’ social and emotional well-being.

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7 Ways to Feel More Courageous

Sherri Gordon, CLC is a published author, certified professional life coach, and bullying prevention expert. She's also the former editor of Columbus Parent and has countless years of experience writing and researching health and social issues.

essay about confidence and courage

Rachel Goldman, PhD FTOS, is a licensed psychologist, clinical assistant professor, speaker, wellness expert specializing in eating behaviors, stress management, and health behavior change.

essay about confidence and courage

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If you live with fear and want to feel more courageous, there are a number of ways you can exercise your 'courage muscles' and make the most of every situation. Here's an overview of what you need to know about courage, as well as tips for living a more courageous life.

What Is Courage?

Many people equate courage with fearlessness, but this is a faulty interpretation. Courage involves taking action in spite of the fear you feel. It is the willingness to respond even when you have feelings of anxiety and worry.

So, never beat yourself up or assume you are not courageous if you feel fearful. To be courageous means that you are able to act even when fearful. Additionally, the more you face your fears , the more you can replace your fear-based response with a courageous one.

In fact, one of the best ways to be courageous is to understand what you're afraid of and then overcome it. If you let it, fear has the power to stop you from moving forward, taking risks, and making the most of opportunities. Meanwhile, being courageous allows you to take chances, pursue your dreams, and get what you want out of life.

Benefits of Courageousness

Being more courageous can help us respond appropriately to risks. It involves thinking things through, examining risks and rewards, and acting despite the fear that inevitably sets in.

Another benefit of being courageous is that we can accomplish positive things in our lives. Courage gives us the power to chase things that are important to us. It can also bolster self-esteem and help us to believe in ourselves and our abilities.

Other benefits of courage include:

  • Allows you to see the world from a different perspective
  • Broadens your experiences, making you more well-rounded
  • Can increase your sense of happiness
  • Encourages others to be courageous too
  • Makes you a more successful person because you're more likely to pursue your dreams and seize opportunities

How to Feel More Courageous

If fear is not viewed correctly, it can prevent you from achieving your goals and pursuing opportunities. For instance, maybe you don't go after that promotion at work and, instead, just hope they notice your hard work.

A good step toward not letting fear hold you back is to determine areas or situations in your life where you could be more courageous. Once you do, here are some actions you can take to help you move forward, even if you might feel scared to do so.

Maintain a Healthy Perspective

People often assume that courageousness is something you're born with, or not. While it is true that some people could be more predisposed to displaying courage based on its connection to certain personality traits , this virtue is more like a muscle. Everyone has the ability to become more courageous with the right training and practice.

It's also important to recognize that fear is not a bad thing. For instance, fear triggers survival instincts designed to keep you safe. For this reason, you might feel fearful when approached by a stranger in a dark alley or during a tornado. Without fear, you may not respond to risk appropriately.

Keeping a healthy perspective on the role that fear plays in our lives can help us stop beating ourselves up when this feeling creeps in. Add that to the understanding that we have the power to build our courage and we become unstoppable.

Look at fear as an opportunity to learn more about who you are and why you might be afraid or less than thrilled about stepping out of your comfort zone . You might find that if you take the time to name your fear and understand why it's there, you can uncover a better idea of how to overcome it or be courageous in spite of it.

Rather than minimizing your fear or denying that it exists, recognize what is holding you back. By acknowledging your fear—either by writing it down or sharing it with a supportive person—you are empowering yourself to be courageous, even when feeling fearful.

Identify Your Strengths

When it comes to living a life of courage, it helps to identify what you're good at and where you've been successful. Research shows that people who recognize and develop their strengths not only feel happier and less depressed but also have greater resilience .

Knowing what you're good at also helps boost your confidence, which makes it more likely that you will take risks and be courageous. Likewise, when you're confident in your abilities, you're much more willing to go all-in when an opportunity presents itself.

What's more, when you are facing fear, it's natural to focus on your shortcomings and weaknesses. But doing this just makes it less likely that you will feel courageous. For this reason, it's important to think about what you're good at as a way of building your confidence , and your courage.

Consider and Visualize Different Scenarios

When you feel fear, do you tend to imagine the worst thing that could happen if you take a risk? If you want to feel more courageous, it's also helpful to picture what would happen if you didn't act at all.

Many times, comparing the two extremes is all that is needed to move beyond your fears. This is because, most of the time, the worst thing that could happen is often minimal compared to what you could gain by acting. Regularly using comparisons like these can help you stop letting fear control you over time.

Additionally, visualize scenarios where you do something you're afraid of. Run through each possible scenario in your mind, including how you might respond or what you might say. This exercise is a way for you to practice being courageous without having to put yourself out there until you feel ready.

Practice Leaving Your Comfort Zone

When you let fear keep you from doing something fun, going after what you want, or expressing who you are at your core, it can result in a life that is not truly lived. Changing this requires that you become intentional.

Building your courage muscles means that you must push yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. Choose some scenarios that make you uncomfortable, but where the stakes are not as high.

In other words, practice being courageous by overcoming little fears like meeting new people or eating alone in a restaurant before tackling something like taking the lead on a project or heading up a community toy drive. By starting small, you can get used to being courageous with minimal risk. With enough practice, you will get to the point where you can take bigger risks.

Reduce Your Stress

Sometimes people experience fear or feel like they lack courage simply because they are exhausted and the thought of doing anything more just seems too overwhelming. It's hard to feel courageous when you are stressed out. So, if you feel overwhelmed, frazzled, or bogged down, look for ways to relieve stress .

In some instances, this might mean taking a short vacation or some much-needed time off work. Everyone needs a break now and then. Learning effective coping skills can also help keep stress from growing too large in your life.

If you feel too overwhelmed with the thought of trying to be more courageous, it could be that you first need to reduce the stress in your life.

Celebrate Courageous Actions

Every courageous act should be celebrated—especially if living courageously is new for you. It's important to pat yourself on the back and recognize the effort it took to overcome your fear. In fact, celebrating small wins can help you stay more motivated to continue this change.

Of course, you don't have to shout it from the rooftops or blast it on social media. Celebrating your success can be as simple as making a mental note of what you accomplished and allowing yourself to feel good about it.

You may even want to keep a journal of these little acknowledgments to reflect on during times when you feel discouraged or like your life lacks courage. Doing this can keep you from engaging in negative thoughts or assuming that you will never be courageous.

Welcome Failure

Being afraid of failure can keep you stagnant or stuck in the same place. The fear of failure can also lead people to develop rigid standards and become perfectionistic in an effort not to experience the embarrassment or shame that comes with failing at something.

But failure is an experience that should be embraced. Remind yourself that failure is not a bad thing, especially if you took risks or stepped outside of your comfort zone.

Failure is an opportunity to grow as a person. It allows you to learn something new, change directions, and see what you're made of. If viewed as a welcome experience instead of a worst-case scenario, failure stretches you to try new things in spite of the risks involved.

It's never too late to start living a courageous life. Courage is simply another trait that can be developed with intentional effort and practice. All it takes is the determination to recognize your fears and the willingness to choose to act despite them.

When you identify your fears and take a proactive approach to work through them to achieve your goals, you not only build your self-confidence but are also likely more successful overall. Look at your fears as an opportunity to build your courage muscles and before long, you will be able to push through your discomfort and live the kind of life you have always wanted.

Pajakoski E, Rannikko S, Leino-Kilpi H, Numminen O. Moral courage in nursing - An integrative literature review . Nurs Health Sci . 2021;23(3):570-585. doi:10.1111/nhs.12805

Can Y, Kaçay Z. Investigation of the relationship between athlete identity perception, courage and self-confidence . Int J Human Sci . 2016;13(3):6176-6184. doi:10.14687/jhs.v13i3.4353

Magnano P, Paolillo A, Platania S, Santisi G. Courage as a potential mediator between personality and coping . Personal Indiv Diff . 2017;111:13-18. doi:10.1016/j.paid.2017.01.047

Steimer A, Mata A. Motivated implicit theories of personality: my weaknesses will go away, but my strengths are here to stay . Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 2016;42(4):415-29. doi:10.1177/0146167216629437

Errida A, Lotfi B. The determinants of organizational change management success: Literature review and case study. Int J Engineer Bus Manage . 2021;13:184797902110162. doi:10.1177/18479790211016273

Loscalzo J. A celebration of failure .  Circulation . 2014;129(9):953-955. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.114.009220

Talesnik D. Hurt inspires us to build 'courageous cultures' . National Institutes of Health.

By Sherri Gordon Sherri Gordon, CLC is a published author, certified professional life coach, and bullying prevention expert. She's also the former editor of Columbus Parent and has countless years of experience writing and researching health and social issues.

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Choose Courage Over Confidence

  • Christie Hunter Arscott

essay about confidence and courage

Self-doubt is a pervasive and often paralyzing concern, particularly for women. Here are three strategies to help you combat it.

Self-doubt is a pervasive and often paralyzing concern, and research has repeatedly shown that it impacts women more than men. So what makes high-achieving women power through their self-doubt? According to the author’s research, they focus on building up their courage, not their confidence. She offers three strategies to help women take bold actions in the face of self-doubt and fear: 1) Don’t underestimate the impact of small, yet significant, acts of courage; 2) Practice courageous acts in all areas of your life; and 3) Try again tomorrow.

Have you ever shied away from taking on a role or opportunity because you didn’t feel confident enough? Perhaps your inner critic told you that you weren’t yet ready, weren’t capable enough, or didn’t have enough experience. Perhaps the voice in your head asked: “Why me?”

essay about confidence and courage

  • Christie Hunter Arscott is an award-winning advisor, speaker, and author of the book Begin Boldly: How Women Can Reimagine Risk, Embrace Uncertainty, and Launch A Brilliant Career . A Rhodes Scholar, Christie has been named by Thinkers50 as one of the top management thinkers likely to shape the future of business.

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Essay On Self Confidence

500 words essay on self confidence.

Self-confidence refers to the state of mind where a person pushes their boundaries and encourages belief within oneself. It is something which comes from self-love. In order to have confidence in yourself, one must love oneself to get freedom from constant doubt. This essay on self confidence will help you learn more about it in detail.

essay on self confidence

The Key to Success

It won’t be far-fetched to say that self-confidence is the key to success. If not, it is definitely the first step towards success. When a person has self-confidence, they are halfway through their battle.

People in school and workplaces achieve success by taking more initiatives and being more forward and active in life. Moreover, they tend to make better decisions because of having confidence in oneself.

Thus, it makes them stand out of the crowd. When you stand apart, people will definitely notice you. Thus, it increases your chances of attaining success in life. Alternatively, if there is a person who does not trust or believe in himself, it will be tough.

They will find it hard to achieve success because they will be exposed to failure as well as criticism. Thus, without self-confidence, they may not get back on their feet as fast as someone who possesses self-confidence.

In addition to gaining success, one also enjoys a variety of perks as well. For instance, you can find a job more easily. Similarly, you may find the magnitude of a difficult job lesser than it is.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Self Confidence

Self-confidence allows us to face our failure and own up to it in a positive light. Moreover, it helps us to raise many times. This helps instil a quality in use which ensures we do not give up till we succeed.

Similarly, self-confidence instils optimism in us. People who have self-confidence are not lucky, they are smart. They do not rely on others to achieve success , they rely on their own abilities to do that.

While self-confidence is important, it is also important to not become overconfident. As we know, anything in excess can be bad for us. Similarly, overconfidence is also no exception.

When you become overconfident, you do not acknowledge the criticism. When you don’t do that, you do not work on yourself. Thus, it stops your growth. Overlooking all this will prove to be harmful.

So it is essential to have moderation which can let you attain just the right amount of self-confidence and self-love which will assure you success and happiness in life.

Conclusion of the Essay on Self Confidence

All in all, a person will gain self-confidence from their own personal experience and decision. No one speech or conversation can bring an overnight change. It is a gradual but constant process we must all participate in. It will take time but once you achieve it, nothing can stop you from conquering every height in life.

FAQ on Essay on Self Confidence

Question 1: What is the importance of self-confidence?

Answer 1: Self-confidence allows a person to free themselves from self-doubt and negative thoughts about oneself. When you are more fearless, you will have less  anxiety . This is what self-confidence can offer you. It will also help you take smart risks and get rid of social anxiety.

Question 2: How do you develop self-confidence paragraph?

Answer 2: To develop self-confidence, one must first look at what they have achieved so far. Then, never forget the things you are good at. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, so focus on your strengths. Set up some goals and get a hobby as well. Give yourself the pep talk to hype up your confidence.

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Courage is not the absence of fear. Courageous people do feel fear, but they are able to manage and overcome their fear so that it does not stop them taking action.

They often use the fear to ensure that they are not overly confident and that they take the appropriate actions.

How do they manage this? They have trained themselves to manage their emotional response to fear, so that they manage it rather than it managing them. This page sets out how you can learn to do this.

What is Courage?

Courage is a highly prized virtue, and many famous and respected people have spoken or written about it over the years. We probably all have an idea of what we mean by courage, or bravery as it is sometimes known.

I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.

Nelson Mandela

Courageous people stand up against things that threaten them or the things or people that they care about. They take action in a way that is consistent with their values. Sometimes, however, the action required is not necessarily loud, but quiet and thoughtful.

Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.

Winston Churchill

The other view that is often taken of courage is that it requires the taking of genuine risk, but with thought.

Courage and being brave is not about blindly rushing in, but thinking about it and then doing it anyway if it is necessary.

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.

T. S. Eliot

The Benefits of Courage

Acting courageously generally makes us feel good, because it involves mastering emotions.

The very fact that we celebrate courage so much tells us that it is a very human activity. Courage, in the sense of acting in a way that responds to risk appropriately, not over-confidently or in a cowardly way, will also help us to accomplish ‘good’ things.

Courage also helps us to act against those who threaten, or who act in a bad way. The Western world has traditionally revered bravery for itself; success is not necessary if courage is shown.

An Example of Courage

The celebration of bravery as an end in itself is seen in the celebration in the UK of Robert Falcon Scott, a man who not only failed in his mission to get to the South Pole first, but died on the way back, along with three of his team.

Spectacular failure, but unmistakeable courage: he (and they) knew the risks, yet chose to go ahead with their expedition anyway.

The Skills You Need Guide to Life: Living Well, Living Ethically

Further Reading from Skills You Need

The Skills You Need Guide to Life: Living Well, Living Ethically

Looking after your physical and mental health is important. It is, however, not enough. Maslow’s famous hierarchy of needs suggests that most of us need more than that. We need to know that we are living our ‘best life’: that we are doing all we can to lead a ‘good life’ that we will not regret later on.

Based on some of our most popular content, this eBook will help you to live that life. It explains about the concepts of living well and ‘goodness’, together with how to develop your own ‘moral compass’.

Courage Governs and Overcomes Fear and Overconfidence

Fear and overconfidence are generally viewed as undesirable emotions. They make us feel bad, either at the time or afterwards.

Fear, like many emotions, is closely linked to survival.

We are afraid of things that threaten our survival, and our reaction is governed by an adrenaline response (which usually means that we are driven to ‘fight’ or ‘flight’). The physical effects of adrenaline include cold, clammy skin, as the blood is withdrawn to the vital organs to enable you to run away fast, the sensation of ‘butterflies’ in the stomach, shivering or trembling, and even chattering teeth.

Being afraid tells you when you are concerned that you may not survive something. However, as our page on Managing Emotions points out, your emotional response may not be rational. It is almost certainly linked to memory, perhaps a past experience, or something you may have read.

Questions to ask yourself to bring courage into play include:

What am I actually afraid of? Is it the right thing to be afraid of? Should I be this afraid of it – or rationally, should I be less or more afraid?

What harm can this thing actually do to me or others?

What are the things that could happen as a result of my actions and/or inactions?

What is the worst that could happen has a result of my actions and/or inactions?

What are the risks to me and to others?

Courage gives us the strength to evaluate an emotional response (fear) and act rationally and rightly.

Over-Confidence

Confidence is good.

Confidence gives us the power to act on our convictions, have faith in ourselves or in others, and take action. Over-confidence however, means that we may be too ready to take action, and take unnecessary risks.

Over-confidence is harder to identify than fear, because it’s a very positive feeling. Confidence feels good, and so does over-confidence. We don’t feel afraid, because we have not properly evaluated the risks.

To help to identify and overcome over-confidence, questions to ask yourself include:

  • What do I believe I can achieve?
  • How will what I do make a difference?
  • How do I know that my actions will have an effect? How can I be sure that they will not do any harm?

Answering these questions rationally, and not with bravado, will help you to evaluate whether you are feeling rightly confident, or over-confident.

Fear and Over-Confidence are Two Sides of the Same Coin.

It is important to know whether you tend to suffer from fear or over-confidence, so that you can work on how to overcome that weakness, ensuring that you act courageously, and not either be overcome by your fears or take unnecessary risks because of over-confidence.

Developing Courage, According to Aristotle

Aristotle suggested that those who tend towards fear should think through how they can practise greater confidence, and those who tend towards risky behaviour should consider how they can learn greater respect for the real risks and dangers of a situation.

“The man, then, who faces and who fears the right things and with the right aim, and in the right way and at the right time, and who feels confidence under the corresponding conditions, is brave.”

Aristotle, (1115b15-19) NE III.7

Finding a Balance

Showing courage, as opposed to either cowardice or cockiness/over-confidence, is all about finding the right balance, which means that you need to think it through beforehand.

Ultimately, perhaps the question to ask yourself is:

How will I feel when I look back on this? Will I feel that I have acted in accordance with my values?

If the answer to the question is that you will be comfortable that you have done what is right, and is consistent with your values, then that is a good way to act.

On the other hand, if you’re concerned that you will feel that you ‘ ran away ’ or ‘ were a bit reckless ’, then you might want to think about alternative actions.

Crucially, try not to let your emotions, whether fear or over-confidence, get the better of you, but think rationally about what you want to do, and what is the right thing to do in the situation.

Understanding and Developing Emotional Intelligence

Understanding and Developing Emotional Intelligence

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Our eBooks are ideal for anyone who wants to learn about or develop their interpersonal skills and are full of easy-to-follow, practical information.

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essay about confidence and courage

“Courage, Confidence, and Character”: Becoming a High-Achieving Girl Scout

essay about confidence and courage

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Though perhaps best known in pop culture as purveyors of delicious cookies, the Girl Scouts of the USA is an organization with broad goals. It exists to empower girls, teach them valuable practical skills, provide them with community support and friendship, and allow them to develop the ability to be a leader in their communities.

Whether you’ve been a Girl Scout since kindergarten or you’re a more recent member, high school is the time to assess your participation in Scouting and set goals for what you’d like to achieve through this organization. Your achievements as a Girl Scout can be valuable not only for your development as a person, but for your future plans, including your college applications.

Are you a Girl Scout, or considering becoming one? Below, we’ll go over more information about the Girl Scouts of the USA, what you can expect as a Girl Scout, and how to earn Girl Scouting’s most prestigious honor, the Gold Award.

Who are the Girl Scouts?

The organization originally known as the Girl Guides was developed in the early 20th century as a part of the worldwide scouting movement. In 1912, Juliette Gordon Low brought the group to the United States, where it became known as the Girl Scouts. Many countries and the international organization still use the term “Girl Guides,” but in this post, we’ll be focusing on the American organization, the Girl Scouts of the USA.

The Girl Scouts of the USA includes programming for girls from kindergarten through high school, during which they move up through six different ranks and complete projects to earn badges and awards. Opportunities are available for adult volunteers and Girl Scout alumnae as well. Most Girl Scouts are organized into local troops led by one or more volunteers, but they may also participate in larger gatherings and camps as well as independent projects.

There’s a rich history and tradition surrounding Girl Scouting, which includes celebrations and ceremonies, uniforms with markers of important achievements, and connections to the over 59 million Girl Scout alumnae throughout the world. This tradition is reflected in the Girl Scout Promise and the Girl Scout Law, which outline the responsibilities and aspirations of Girl Scout membership, including a commitment to honesty, responsibility, and helpfulness.  

The stated mission of the Girl Scouts of the USA is to “build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.” Members are encouraged to work on their own personal development and identify their own passions and talents, to develop both independence and the ability to act cooperatively, and to build a sound set of values as they learn new skills and take on new projects.

The traditional outdoor skills involved in the Scouting movement, such as camping and first aid, are still part of the Girl Scout experience, but troop and individual activities now cover a much broader range of topics. Opportunities vary by grade level, and Girl Scouts can earn badges and other awards for their accomplishments in fields from writing to computer programming to car care.

Community service plays a particularly large role in Girl Scouting. Members are encouraged to take on projects that will not only support their own development, but affect their larger communities in a positive way. A substantial independent service project is required in order to reach the highest rank of Girl Scouting, which we’ll discuss in more detail below.

What honors can a Girl Scout can earn?

As a Girl Scout moves up through the various age levels of the Girl Scout program, she’ll have the opportunity to mark her accomplishments by earning badges as well as various types of awards. Badges denote a specific skill learned, such as kayaking, or project completed, such as planting a garden. Different badges are available at each age level, each with its own set of requirements.

Girl Scouts also have the opportunity to earn additional awards for planning and completing larger-scale projects. Some, known as Journeys, involve working as a team on a project chosen from several established options, and culminate in a special award. Others require girls to conceive of and implement plans more independently.

For fourth and fifth grade girls in the program, the Bronze Award is given for completing a substantial community service project, with a team working together to develop the project and address a community need. The Silver Award for sixth through eighth graders is similar, but girls in this age range have the option to work independently.

The highest honor available to Girl Scouts, however, is the Gold Award. The Girl Scout Gold Award is roughly equivalent to the Boy Scout rank of Eagle Scout, which is achieved through an intense community service project. The general public is more familiar with the Eagle Scout designation, but the Gold Award is no less prestigious or difficult to achieve.

Only girls in high school are eligible to receive the Gold Award, and before they begin the process, they must have received a number of previous Journey Awards and/or a Silver Award. With the support of an advisor, a Girl Scout working toward a Gold Award then identifies and researches a problem to be solved in her community, and develops a plan to address that problem.

Once a Girl Scout has decided upon her Gold Award project, she must present her plan to her local Girl Scout council and demonstrate that it meets certain requirements. Council members provide feedback and decide whether to approve the project so that it can move forward.

Carrying out Gold Award projects often involves other members of the community, and learning to recruit, manage, and collaborate with volunteers is an important part of the process. However, the time worked by volunteers does not count toward the 80-hour commitment required of the Girl Scout leading the project.

After the Gold Award project is complete, the Girl Scout must undertake a final step of sharing her experience. A final report must be submitted to the local Girl Scout council, and Girl Scouts are additionally encouraged to publicly reflect on their projects in order to inspire others. Ideally, Gold Award projects address issues important to the community in a way that will have an impact well into the future.

What are the benefits of earning the Girl Scout Gold Award?

If you’re a Girl Scout, there are a number of significant advantages to undertaking a Gold Award project. First and foremost is that the Gold Award project represents the culmination of all your time spent as a Girl Scout and the fulfillment of the qualities that the Girl Scouts exist to instill. Receiving a Gold Award indicates, both to you and to your community, that you’ve made the most of your Girl Scouting experience.

The Gold Award is a prestigious and recognizable award from a national organization with a rigorous, nationally standardized set of requirements, meaning that it will be a valuable part of your resume moving forward. Receiving this award sets you apart for your hard work and dedication to a goal, and if you receive this award, you’ll be among only 5.4% of eligible Girl Scouts who do so.

The research, planning, leadership, and dedication involved in putting together a successful Gold Award project are invaluable qualities for your future, and the colleges to which you apply will appreciate that you’ve demonstrated your personal qualities in such a recognizable way. The community-service element of the Gold Award also lets future college admissions committees know that you’ve built a connection to the people around you and that you have concerns that extend into the larger world.

The passions you’ve exhibited in your project may provide a glimpse of how you could contribute to a college campus and beyond. In college, you’ll have many opportunities to pursue independent projects, lead group activities, and delve deeply into particular topics of interests, and if you’ve completed a Gold Award project, your future college will know that you have the skills to take advantage of these opportunities.

Receiving a Gold Award opens the door for additional recognition and other benefits, one of which is the National Young Women of Distinction (NYWD) program. Each year, only ten Girl Scout Gold Award recipients are selected for this program, which honors Girl Scouts whose Gold Award projects were particularly extraordinary in planning, execution, and impact upon a nationally or internationally significant issue or problem.

Girl Scouts who become part of the NYWD program receive professional training in public speaking and the opportunity to speak to and for young women on a national level. Their Gold Award projects are awarded additional resources and recognition, improving awareness of the issues that these Girl Scouts have chosen to work on. NYWD program participants also receive college scholarships , as well as a particularly prestigious award for their resumes.

More broadly, your success in the Girl Scouts will not only help your college application shine, but will also make you eligible for other college scholarship programs administered by the central Girl Scouts organization as well as other sources. Having a Gold Award on your record, of course, can only help your applications for these scholarships. Last but not least, if you eventually join the U.S. military, you may be awarded more advanced rank on the basis of the service and commitment you’ve shown through your Gold Award project.

What role can Girl Scouts play in the admissions process?

As we mentioned, the Girl Scout Gold Award is generally not as well known to the public as the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Scout designation, so you may have to do a little additional explaining in order to make sure others understand the meaning of this award. Your Gold Award represents a serious commitment and a major achievement, and you don’t want that success to be downplayed.

However, regardless of public notoriety, the Gold Award is a prestigious accolade that speaks highly of your character, your leadership skills, and the work you’ve put in to reach this point. Rest assured that college admissions officers and others in the know will appreciate what your Gold Award says about you as a leader, a planner, and a person. Working toward such a prestigious award speaks volumes about your potential for future success.

As you map out your path through high school and, eventually, the college application process, you’ll come across many additional opportunities to learn new skills, demonstrate leadership , and help your community through extracurricular activities. Participating in Girl Scouts can be a great way to grow as a person and show off your skills, but of course, you’ll need to supplement your involvement with other activities outside the classroom.

Are you still considering which extracurriculars to join or how to manage your schedule? CollegeVine is here to guide you in choosing extracurriculars that will not only match up with your passions, but give you valuable skills and experience that can be essential for your future in college and beyond.

Check out our blog posts on individual extracurricular activities , from creative writing to athletics to National Honor Society , as well as our recent and upcoming posts on how to manage your extracurriculars during each year of high school.

If you’re thinking more about extracurriculars because college applications are drawing near, we can help with that as well. Our experienced advisors can assist with crafting your application, editing your essay, and mentoring you through the application process—all more affordably than our competitors. Fill out the form below for a free initial consultation!

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essay about confidence and courage

Guide to Exam

100, 150, 200, 250 & 300 Words Paragraph & Essay About Courage

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A Paragraph about Courage in 100 Word

Courage is a remarkable quality found in brave individuals. It is the ability to face fear, challenges, and hardships with determination. Courageous people do not let their fears stop them from taking risks and standing up for what is right. They show bravery by speaking up against injustice, helping others in need, and trying new things, even when they are scared. Courage can be seen in everyday acts of kindness, like standing up to a bully or trying something new, like riding a bike for the first time. It takes courage to face challenges and overcome them. Having courage is like having superpowers that make us stronger and more confident.

A Paragraph about Courage in 150 Word

Courage is a quality that shows strength and bravery in difficult or challenging situations. It takes a lot of courage to face our fears and overcome them. For example, imagine a person who is afraid of heights. They might feel scared and nervous when going up a tall building or riding a roller coaster. However, if they are able to push past their fears and take a step forward, that shows great courage. Courage can also be seen in everyday acts of kindness and standing up for what is right. For instance, if a student sees someone being bullied and decides to speak up and defend them, they are showing immense courage. Courage is not about being fearless, but rather about facing our fears and not letting them control us. It is a quality that inspires others and makes the world a better place.

A Paragraph about Courage in 200 Word

Courage is a powerful virtue that allows people to face their fears and overcome challenges. It is not just about being brave, but also about pushing ourselves to do what is right, even when it is difficult. When we think of courage, we might imagine a superhero saving the day or a firefighter rescuing someone from a burning building. But courage can also be seen in everyday acts of bravery. It takes courage to stand up for a friend who is being bullied or to try something new even if we are afraid of failing. Courage comes from deep within, and it helps us grow and learn. It is not something that can easily be seen, but its effects can be felt by those around us. Having courage allows us to face challenges head-on, to persist when things get tough, and to believe in ourselves. So, let us be courageous and face our fears, for it is through this bravery that we can achieve great things in life.

A Paragraph about Courage in 250 Word

Courage is a remarkable quality that resides within each and every one of us. It is the ability to face our fears, stand up for what we believe in, and take action, even when we are scared. Courage is like a superhero power that helps us overcome challenges and obstacles in our lives. People who have courage are not afraid to try new things or take risks. They believe in themselves and their abilities, which gives them the strength to face difficult situations with confidence.

Courage can be seen in everyday life. It takes courage to stand up to a bully, to speak out when something is not right, or to take a leap of faith and try something new. Courageous people are not afraid of failure, because they know that even if they do fail, they have learned valuable lessons along the way.

Courage is also about being kind and compassionate to others. It takes courage to be a good friend, to help someone in need, or to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. By showing kindness and compassion, we inspire others to be courageous too.

In conclusion, courage is a special quality that makes us strong and resilient. It helps us face our fears, take risks, and be kind to others. Having courage allows us to become better versions of ourselves and make a positive impact in the world. So let’s embrace our courage and face the challenges that come our way with bravery and determination.

A Paragraph about Courage in 300 Word

Courage is a remarkable quality that can be found in many different people. It is the ability to face fears and overcome challenges, even when it is difficult or scary. Courage can come in many forms, and it is not limited to just superheroes or soldiers. In fact, everyday people demonstrate courage in their everyday lives.

Imagine a little girl who is afraid of riding a bicycle for the first time. She knows it will be challenging, and she might fall. However, she gathers her courage, takes a deep breath, and gets on the bike. She pedals slowly at first, but as she gains confidence, her speed increases. With each push of the pedal, she overcomes her fear and discovers the joy of riding a bicycle. This girl demonstrates courage by facing her fears and not letting them hold her back.

Another example of courage can be seen in a student who is nervous about speaking in front of the entire class. He knows that all eyes will be on him and that he might stumble over his words. Despite his fear, he stands tall in front of his classmates and begins his presentation. He speaks with a strong voice and a confident tone, captivating his audience. This student shows courage by pushing past his fears and speaking up.

Courage is not about being fearless or never feeling afraid. It is about acknowledging one’s fears and still choosing to move forward. It is about taking risks, even when it is uncomfortable or uncertain. With courage, we can face challenges, overcome obstacles, and grow as individuals. So let us remember that courage is not just for superheroes, but for each and every one of us.

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How To Stand Out In The Ivy League During Your Freshman Year

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Harvard College

This spring, many students felt the relief and exuberance that comes with an acceptance letter from one’s dream school. Many students attending Ivy League and other top universities are valedictorians and leaders in their high school communities; they excelled throughout their high school careers and graduated with the accolades to prove it. Yet, these students are often in for a rude awakening when they arrive on campus. Though they were exceptional at their high schools, they are a dime a dozen in the Ivy League. This realization can cause many students to feel imposter syndrome and wonder how they can stand out and make an impression on their professors and peers in such a competitive environment.

The more that students prepare themselves for this adjustment, the better. Standing out in college is a different endeavor than standing out in high school—it requires time, intentionality, and a willingness to be uncomfortable and challenge yourself. Most importantly, it takes practice, and if students seek to hone this skill from their first semester on campus, they will set themselves up for success for the next four years.

For students preparing for their first semester in college, here are five strategies to navigate the transition into the Ivy League with confidence, purpose, and distinction:

1. Make your voice heard in the classroom

At Ivy League and many other top schools, faculty-to-student ratios and class sizes tend to be small, allowing greater opportunity for you to establish yourself in the classroom and engage with your professors directly. Many students are weighed down by self-doubt and the desire to avoid making mistakes in their first semester, and as such, they are reluctant to raise their hands or offer their input. But one of the best ways to establish connections with professors is to use your voice in the classroom—college is about learning and growing, so don’t be afraid to get a question wrong or develop your ideas through conversation. Doing so will allow you to connect with others in class, build your intellectual skill set, and demonstrate your curiosity and earnest desire to learn.

2. Engage in activities outside of the classroom

Beyond academics, the Ivy League is known for vibrant opportunities to learn and connect with others outside of the classroom. Whether you're interested in student government, the performing arts, guest lectures, community service, or intramural athletics, there’s an opportunity to explore your passions. Join clubs and organizations that align with your interests and values, and consider taking on leadership roles to showcase your initiative and organizational skills. Engaging in extracurricular activities will not only enrich your college experience but also afford you the opportunity to get to know people outside of your major or residence hall.

Ghost Of Tsushima Is Already Flooded With Negative Reviews On Steam

Wwe smackdown results winners and grades with stratton vs belair, biden-trump debates: what to know as trump pushes for 2 more faceoffs, 3. cultivate your network.

One of the most valuable assets you'll gain during your time in the Ivy League is your network of peers, professors, and mentors. Take the time to connect with your classmates and professors, attend faculty office hours, and engage in meaningful discussions. One of the best ways to build your network is to simply put yourself out there—a student’s college years are the prime opportunity to connect with even the most distinguished scholars in their field, as they not only likely have connections through their institution, but professors (even at other universities) are more likely to respond to students who reach out for their advice. If one knowledgeable person doesn’t respond or have the bandwidth to advise you on a particular project or query, move on to the next person on your list!

4. Pursue Research, Internship, and Study Abroad Opportunities

The Ivy League offers unparalleled access to research, internship, and study abroad opportunities that can complement your academic studies and expand your horizons. For instance, Harvard offers a multitude of distinguished research positions for undergraduates, ranging from thesis research to research assistantships. The University of Pennsylvania sent students to 48 countries through their study abroad offerings in the 2022-2023 academic year. Meanwhile, Princeton offers more than 400 programs in 140 countries through which students may study abroad. Whether conducting groundbreaking research in your field of study or gaining real-world experience through internships, the plethora of opportunities available to you at an Ivy League university will not only enhance your resume but also deepen your understanding of your chosen field and prepare you for future success.

5. Carve out your niche

Finally, just as high school is a time to hone your passions and demonstrate them in action in your community, college is a more rigorous opportunity to identify and make a name for yourself within a niche industry or discipline. The best way to begin doing so is to have conversations with professors, graduate students, and older students in your field. Ask them questions like: Where do you see the field expanding or moving in the next five years? What are the most significant recent developments in this profession/field? What subjects do you think have been largely unexplored? What advice would you give to emerging scholars in this discipline? While pursuing a subject of true interest to you is indeed important, it is also important to consider how you will contribute uniquely to your subject of interest, and thereby maximize your odds of success in the job market.

Finally, keep in mind that you can (and should) begin practicing these skills in high school. The more you engage in these activities, the more natural they will be when you are on campus at a top university.

Christopher Rim

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My 2 children came out as trans. Nothing could've prepared me for what they have gone through.

  • My children came out to me one summer; they both started HRT to help with their body dysmorphia.
  • HRT changed their moods, but transitioning isn't easy, and I struggle to help them sometimes.
  • I worry about the dangers of being trans in this world, but I am trying to be courageous. 

Insider Today

I was never a morning person until I became a parent. I transformed into someone who found a deep appreciation of the darkness before dawn. The morning became my haven — a place where moments of silence were punctuated solely by the chirps of early birds attempting to capture the proverbial worm.

However, in the last few years, my reason for seeking the safety of early morning twilight has changed.

I'm now a single parent to two teenagers — both of whom are undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) . That time before the sun hits the horizon is the only time I can convince myself that the world is safe for my transgender kids to exist.

Both of my kids came out one summer

I've always considered myself to be someone who could handle or adapt to anything. Despite that inherent faith I don't know if I could have prepared myself for how quickly things were going to change —especially considering both of my kids came out on summer break before they started sixth and seventh grade.

I wish I could recall every detail of their coming-out stories . I wish I could somehow remember the exact date or the outfit I was wearing, like a mental time capsule intended to capture the most important moments.

What I can tell you is there were signs. That summer, they both started to withdraw. They were sadder, quieter, and far more anxious. They were hiding in their room even more than usual, and their normally verbose responses to questions had turned into simple sound effects. I questioned them constantly about what was going on.

My eldest came out first. It seemed like he was the more tortured of the two when it came to telling me. When he finally let it all spill out, and both he and my youngest saw that my reaction wasn't negative, it seemed like the decision came far easier for my youngest to broach it.

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I experienced a mixture of emotions. It started with instant pride — knowing the courage it took for them to talk to me about it and the knowledge that they wouldn't have had that courage if we didn't have the kind of relationship they felt safe enough to be brave in.

They're both now undergoing HRT

It's been years since they came out, and trust me when I say those years haven't been easy. The three of us separately and collectively went through hellfire together in various ways. No matter how supportive I am, and no matter how much I would go to war to protect my children, there is nothing I could have done to prepare myself for what they were going to go through — and not just from outside forces.

The protective bubble I was willing to put them in wasn't enough to protect them from people who were quick to judge — and it couldn't protect them from themselves either. No amount of love or support is enough to combat body dysmorphia , emotional upheaval, and the nagging feeling that you're never going to be looked at as "normal" again. The intense body dysmorphia they both grappled with took a severe toll on their mental health.

Both of them were so desperate to get hormone replacement therapy ( HRT ) — a process that requires the injection of hormones intended to alter or replace the ones naturally occurring in the body.

The longer a person is on the treatment, the more pronounced the effects: deeper voice, more facial and body hair, the slight squaring of the jaw and shoulders — all things associated with the male-gender-construct . They were convinced that if they could get on HRT, those ugly feelings of hating themselves and the body they existed in would go away.

For the last 12 months now, they've both been on a steady cycle of testosterone. While I can't say HRT has been the cure-all, I can say that it has made a monumental change in their self-esteem and their confidence.

As they become more themselves, I worry how they will fit into this world

Recent studies show murders of trans people have nearly doubled, and Black and Latinx tend to top the list. We're LatinX, so I can't help but worry for my children. I support and encourage them to be who they want to be, but I can't ignore these statistics.

The first time my kid told me they were going to change in their chosen locker room , I was terrified for them. But they survived it, and so I will, too.

I look to them for courage because no matter how hard it is for me — as a single parent to carry them through this — none of it compares to the kind of day-to-day struggles they have to deal with.

There's no instruction manual for any of this, but my solace is in the silence before dawn. In those moments, I'm allowed to take in the brightly-hued sunrise and daydream about my kids being able to exist as their authentic selves.

Watch: The truth behind the experimental therapy that kids say starts with 'legalized kidnapping'

essay about confidence and courage

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Greater Good Science Center • Magazine • In Action • In Education

Six Ways to Find Your Courage During Challenging Times

“We teach who we are,” says educational philosopher Parker Palmer.

Early in my teaching career, I participated in a series of retreats led by the Center for Courage and Renewal, inspired by Palmer’s book The Courage to Teach . Palmer reminds us that our sense of self plays out in our work every day—and living with courage and integrity means finding balance and alignment between our inner and outer selves. In other words, our identities, values, and beliefs inform the selves we bring to others.

But how do we find the courage to stand up for our coworkers, students, neighbors, family and friends, and ourselves amid exhausting and unprecedented challenges? The truth is, I’m not particularly thrilled with the person I’ve been bringing to work lately. On some mornings, I’m simply looking for the courage to get out of bed.

essay about confidence and courage

If you are like me, there are days when you feel emotionally weary, inept, and cynical—all characteristics of burnout . However, I’m finding that the science of courage offers a psychological lifeline, helping us to clarify what really matters so that we can find a steadier, values-based resolve—and even inspire it in others. I dove into the courage research with teachers in mind, but these tips are for everyone.

Fortunately, courage comes in many forms. Although definitions range, researchers tend to agree that it features three primary components: a risk, an intention, and a goal that may benefit others. In a classic example, a student defends a peer who is being verbally assaulted by a bully, by interrupting the bully and telling them to stop. This purposeful act may come at a cost—perhaps socially or physically.

But courage doesn’t have to look dramatic or fearless. We express it in both bold and quiet ways. In fact, “ general courage ,” the confident or seemingly brazen actions perceived by others, differs from “ personal courage ,” those actions that are courageous in the minds of the actors themselves. It all depends on how you view the challenge in front of you and the fears associated with performing a particular behavior. In other words, these days, some of us may need significant “personal courage” to get out of bed and face the day on behalf of those students we value and care about.

Why is just showing up courageous? Daily stressors can pile up, leading to emotional exhaustion, a sense of detachment from your work, and the feeling that you simply aren’t as capable as you thought you were—and if you don’t feel capable, you may not feel particularly confident. Yet courage is also associated with other positive character strengths , like persistence and integrity.

The good news is that there are many ways to tap into our capacity for courage, whether we are adults or students. Here are six.

1. See yourself as courageous

First, if we describe ourselves as “courageous,” we are more likely to act courageously . In other words, if I tell myself that I’m a courageous person as I park in the school parking lot and walk into my school, it may actually give me a psychological boost and inspire me to meet the day with greater self-assurance.

Alternatively, we can take time to note and label all the courageous actions we have already taken in our lives. For example, when you consider how your childhood struggles inform your current relationships with coworkers or students, or how you made it through college as a single mom, or how you’ve learned to cope with a chronic health issue, you may be more likely to experience positive emotions while reconnecting with personal values and beliefs that can inspire future courageous behaviors.

Consider conducting an inventory of past actions with your students or colleagues so that you can identify and celebrate individual acts of courage together. Then, discuss how those actions influence who you are now and who you want to be.

2. Get comfortable with “mistakes”

We can recognize and celebrate courage with others, but it can also be a very internal, day-to-day experience. One of the most common ways we practice courage at work is in our pursuit of learning and personal growth. Research tells us that fear of failure can negatively correlate with courage, but what if it’s OK to make mistakes—and they are even welcomed learning tools?

Studies indicate that students may benefit from making mistakes (and correcting them) rather than avoiding them at all costs. And when researchers reviewed 38 studies of resilience in response to failure, errors, or mistakes, they found that more resilient individuals had lower levels of perfectionism and a more positive way of explaining past events: “I haven’t solved this long division problem yet, but I’ll try another strategy next.”

Another way to address fear of failure is through a simple practice you can share with your students or colleagues called “ Crumpled Reminder ,” where you write about a recent mistake you made, crumple up a paper representing your feelings about that mistake, and then discuss the ways mistakes strengthen brain activity and help us to learn and grow.

Crumpled Reminder

Crumpled Reminder

Write down a recent mistake and your feelings about it, and then crumple up the paper. Then reflect on how your mistakes help you learn.

Rather than fearing looming “failures,” seeing daily missteps as opportunities for learning frees all of us to appreciate learning for what it is—a process rather than a performance.

3. Keep trying

Courage at work also requires perseverance. As our fears lessen, we are more likely to persist in learning—to keep trying despite the obstacles ahead of us. And perseverance (or persistence), as a character strength, can also be modeled, observed, and developed. In fact, when adults model persistence in working toward a goal, infants as young as 15 months tend to mimic that behavior.

As teachers, we have a lot of power to influence our students’ efforts by sharing our own vulnerabilities while we read a challenging text, our own self-conscious emotions as we outline a timed essay, our stops and starts while solving a word problem, and our commitment to keep going.

And research suggests that teachers’ growth mindsets, or belief that intelligence grows and changes with effort, can be linked to the development of students’ growth mindsets. This more positive, flexible mindset can improve students’ performance at school, boost their well-being and social competence , and even promote kind, helpful, and prosocial actions. All these benefits may bolster our capacity for courageous actions, too.

4. Look for the heroes

Of course, if we are feeling apathetic, anxious, or fearful about stepping up and doing that next best thing at school or in life, it can be helpful to draw inspiration from others—whether near or far, real or fictional.

According to research , the individuals we admire may represent some aspect of our ideal selves as they demonstrate moral courage through difficult times and a desire to do good in the world. They can also inspire us to live more meaningful lives. Studies suggest that seeing images of heroes may move us to sense greater meaning in our lives—and even increase our drive to help others.

Basic social cognitive theory tells us that we are motivated through “vicarious experiences”—as we witness others’ actions. In fact, when adults observe courageous behaviors in their workplaces , like a teacher standing up for a group of students or a colleague advocating for an important policy, they are more likely to see the potential for organizational change and feel inspired to act courageously themselves.

Our students can benefit from models of courage, too. In the “ Who Are Your Heroes? ” lesson from Giraffe Heroes Project , students listen to and present hero stories, while exploring the risks and benefits of courageous acts. Stories like these can communicate shared values , make us more  empathic , and may  encourage us to help others .

5. Clarify your values

You may recognize heroism or courage in others, but sometimes struggle to see it in yourself. If so, it may be helpful to ask yourself a few key questions:

  • What do I value in myself?
  • What do I “stand for”?
  • What is important to me?
  • What are some of my successes and accomplishments?

When researchers measured teachers’ responses to prompts like these, they found that teachers’ anxiety immediately decreased—and they experienced more positive emotions over time when compared to a control group. Teachers’ values drive their goals and behaviors at school, while supporting their well-being and a sense of self-efficacy at work. If we feel clear and capable, we may also feel more courageous.

Philosophers consider courage to be a foundational virtue because it guides us to act on behalf of other virtues or values. In fact, our convictions, values, sense of integrity, honor, and loyalty can all influence our courageous actions. When we experience a threat to our moral code, we are likely to act in a way that upholds our beliefs and values. And the more powerful the belief , the more likely you will not be influenced or swayed by those around you.

You and your students can clarify your values and explore your character strengths through a range of simple practices for both adults and students , like Discovering Your Strengths and Talents , Eight Inner Strengths for Leaders , and Reminders that Encourage Moral Character Strengths .

6. Become part of a social force for courage

Finally, we can act on our values in community. After more than a year of isolation from each other—and the prospect of ongoing public health, environmental, and sociocultural crises—we are finding courage again in groups.

More Education Resources

Visit Greater Good in Education for more information, tips, and practices to support teacher and student well-being. To dive deeper into the research behind these practices and strategies, register for one of our online courses for educators .

Teachers and students are participating in social and emotional communities of practice, circles of courage , and other “ circles ” practices to nurture a sense of belonging, find emotional support, and engage in collective action. Studies indicate that social groups like these promote interdependence, social identity, and cohesion and influence courageous behavior, too.

And one of the most empowering things we can do for our students right now is to support them in being courageous community problem solvers, too.

Tribes Learning Communities  curricula focus on active learning and community building among adults and students to reduce violence and increase kindness. For example, in their lesson “ Put Down the Put-Downs ,” students consider how hurtful name-calling really feels and brainstorm ways to end the problem in their classrooms and school. In this case, perspective taking and empathic responses can lead to more courageous and impassioned student action, cultivating a positive school and classroom climates where everyone is  honored and valued .

Further, in the lesson “ It’s Up to Us to Stick Our Necks Out ,” students share stories about everyday heroes drawn from a free story bank , and then learn to “Be the Story” by selecting, planning, and enacting a service learning project to address a community challenge (such as homelessness, clean air or water, or a need for increased literacy). As we act on our values together, we may feel a greater sense of agency in a world that feels topsy-turvy right now.

During those dark, winter mornings when you really don’t want to crawl out of bed and face the day, remember that courage can also be a very private, personal act. There will always be risks and challenges to face, but what really matters most—in your gut? Is it love, learning, curiosity, compassion, hope? How do these values inform who you are and how you show up in the world?

These are the key questions that can help us to frame our truest intentions—even on our most difficult days.

New Course! Courage in Education

New Course! Courage in Education

Face Challenges with Strength, Determination, and Hope

About the Author

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Amy L. Eva, Ph.D. , is the associate education director at the Greater Good Science Center. As an educational psychologist and teacher educator with over 25 years in classrooms, she currently writes, presents, and leads online courses focused on student and educator well-being, mindfulness, and courage. Her new book, Surviving Teacher Burnout: A Weekly Guide To Build Resilience, Deal with Emotional Exhaustion, and Stay Inspired in the Classroom, features 52 simple, low-lift strategies for enhancing educators’ social and emotional well-being.

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Courage Under Fire

Courage Under Fire

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COMMENTS

  1. Turning Fear into Confidence—A Personal Essay

    Turning Fear into Confidence—A Personal Essay. October 14, 2020. Facing obstacles throughout your life is inevitable, and the obstacles you overcome can define who you are as a person. Not only will this build character and self-confidence, it will show others how strong you remained and inspire them to overcome their own challenges.

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  8. How to Live a More Courageous Life

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  9. Six Ways to Find Your Courage During Challenging Times

    Stories like these can communicate shared values, make us more empathic, and may encourage us to help others. 5. Clarify your values. You may recognize heroism or courage in others, but sometimes struggle to see it in yourself. If so, it may be helpful to ask yourself a few key questions:

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    The narrative is emotionally engaging and provides an authentic perspective on how courage can be found in everyday actions. The inclusion of the Maya Angelou and Ralph Waldo Emerson quotes adds depth to the analysis. The essay successfully connects courage to resilience, determination, and eventual success.

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    Courage is a quality or a state of mind that galvanizes people into action. With courage, people face danger, fear, or vicissitudes with confidence, self-possession, and resolution. Therefore, courage does not exist in the absence of fear or challenges. It is a deliberate decision that action is necessary regardless obstacles.

  24. How To Stand Out In The Ivy League During Your Freshman Year

    1. Make your voice heard in the classroom. At Ivy League and many other top schools, faculty-to-student ratios and class sizes tend to be small, allowing greater opportunity for you to establish ...

  25. Is America dictator-proof?

    Essay; Schools brief; Business & economics ... Americans themselves are losing confidence in it. Feckless war-making, a financial crisis and institutional rot have let loose a ferocity in America ...

  26. My 2 Trans Children Are Undergoing Hormone Replacement Therapy

    Essay by Liv Styler. 2024-05-04T13:07:01Z ... I can say that it has made a monumental change in their self-esteem and their confidence. ... I look to them for courage because no matter how hard it ...

  27. 2023 summer warmth unparalleled over the past 2,000 years

    Here, we combine observed and reconstructed June-August (JJA) surface air temperatures to show that 2023 was the warmest NH extra-tropical summer over the past 2000 years exceeding the 95% ...

  28. Six Ways to Find Your Courage During Challenging Times

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