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March 02, 2007
Courage to Lead Without Fear
No wise captain leaves port without first making sure that his vessel is fit for the perils of the open sea. It is a simple nautical principle to survey the integrity of the vessel before exposing it to the elements. As leaders, it is important that we regularly examine the integrity of our personal core principles before expecting others to follow us.
It is far easier to be objective when examining our personal strengths and weaknesses when we are anchored safely in the port than trying to assess ourselves under the extreme duress of gale force winds. But although a ship may be safer in harbor, that’s not what ships were built for.
There are many types of fear and some of them can even be healthy. Healthy fear is a defense mechanism that can protect us in the presence of extreme danger. Sometimes healthy fear can be a great motivater. But unhealthy fear can cripple our minds and rob us of the precious jewels of success if it rules over us.
Minimize fear by acting and speaking out of courage and conviction!
Fear is the first negative obstacle we positively must overcome in our minds. If we can’t get past ourselves, then we can never reach others.
Fear paralyzes the mind. Action becomes slow motion in the presence of fear. This is not to imply that we should march recklessly in the presence of fear, but we should not be found completely motionless.
Marshall Ney was one of Napoleon’s key commanders. Once when he was about to enter the throes of battle, he looked down at his knees which were violently knocking together and said, “You may well be shaking, but if you knew where it was I am about to take you, you would be shaking even more ferociously.” Napoleon once said of Ney, “I have two hundred million in my coffers and would give them all for Ney.”
Courage is the beginning of action. When fear sets in, the will must take over. Henry Ford once said that, “You can’t build a reputation on what you’re going to do.” Most people know what to do but often allow fear of the unknown to slow down their progress. Do not be afraid to step out and make a mistake. YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES! But mistakes can be AWESOME in their power.
Mistakes reveal at least two certainties. (1) You don’t know EVERYTHING. Legendary basketball coach John Wooden reminds us that “It’s what you learn after you know everything that counts.” (2) You NEED others. People are always more willing to support what they have helped to create.
Mistakes also present at least two opportunities: (1) The opportunity to learn from your mistakes and (2) the opportunity to teach others from your mistakes. Mistakes do not need to be failure. Mistakes can stretch the boundaries of your courage. Failure and fear are quitters. Courage and perseverance are winners. Press hard into the lives of those around you. Encourage others by the words of your mouth. Your courage will be made visible in your convictions.
George A Palombo
Executive Director
Posted by GeorgeP at March 2, 2007 09:09 AM