Adam Pedley

An attribute most people give to people who seem fearless and great. Well courage actually doesn’t mean you are fearless. It means you have fear, and act anyway. You have the courage to do something when you are scared to.

And courage can come in all sizes, while it’s unfortunate for most (including myself) that we don’t have enough. Small things such as public speaking or acting, just because you are afraid of what someone else thinks or skydiving or bungie jumping just because there is a small chance that something could go wrong.

Now fear was built into our biology for a reason. We don’t want to jump off a cliff with no parachute, or go and hug a wild polar bear, it keeps us safe. But a lot of fear today is from social pressure and ignorance. As one of my mentor’s brad sugars says, F.E.A.R stands for False Expectations Appearing Real. And that is usually what it is.

Now while all of this can seems insignificant, it has one MAJOR impact on our lives. It stops us going for what we want. Being afraid to do something that would make us happy because we think of all the things that could go wrong. Well why not think of all the things that could go right. And don’t let a stumbling block get you down, keep on going.

Lets take an example, if you read most stories of actors/actresses you will commonly see a similar story. They grew up with normal parents, went to high school, they were grounded, they worked at supermarkets or fast food restaurants all while they practised their talents. Then they make a big move. They go for it. They move state or country to hollywood, they live in poor conditions, they stuggle, taking any reasonable acting job they can find, guest appearances etc. They have the courage to continue, they pursue what they want and don’t give up. And eventually, they start getting bigger parts and more money. Then after a while at that they normally score, what many people refer to as their big break.

Just to highlight their path, a common misconception is that they are completely unknown and struggling and then they hit it really big. You will see in their paths they gradually get better roles as they progress.

So what did they do, they had courage and a goal and they went for it. So what is stopping you. Take the plunge, go for what you want. You know, no matter what situtation you always land on your feet as you are still here.

A great saying I was reaquainted with recently was, “It’s always darkest before the dawn”.

Have the courage to do something others fear, and you too will see the greatness of your passion and determination.