In my experience, COURAGE encompasses a complex process of realization, recognition, and response. An understanding of this process allows one to strategize and execute through challenge and discomfort.
There are courageous acts of all kinds. In the movie “Free Solo,” the extraordinary climb of Yosemite’s El Capitan by Alex Honnold is masterfully documented. Let us consider the realization, recognition, and response framework in this context.
For Alex, being Congruent, or in alignment, means a continual process of challenge. So much so, that he makes enormous sacrifices to achieve his climbing goals. Ironically, his lack of fear as a climber was in response to his fear of people. He was a timid boy. Climbing and free soloing were the remedies to this particular fear.
To perform, where death is a missed finger press or toe hold away, Alex realized his desire and values. He recognized the sacrifices he needed to make and responded in ways that are anathema to most people. Most notably, he lives out of a van in the most simple terms. His only possessions are those which perpetuate his path. This lifestyle affords him the ability to be always in alignment and moving toward his goals by moving himself without constraint.
As the day of the attempt drew near, he realized that while his girlfriend, Cassandra McCandless wanted to be near and offer support, she would only be a distraction. He realized his love for her would affect his ability to focus. This endeavor would require such a singular focus that he had to psychologically separate from everything, except the ascent of El Capitan. Again, a realization, a recognition, and a response.
Our fears come from three sources; fear of loss, fear of process, and fear of outcome. Thinking in terms of the 3R framework and this fear framework, we come to terms with what needs to be done and why.
Have you realized that you are oddly out of alignment? Do you recognize what needs to be done? Have you responded by laying out a plan to overcome? High-performance coaching is designed to leverage each focus area. CLARITY, ENERGY, PRODUCTIVITY, COURAGE, and INFLUENCE all informed and magnified with a sense of NECESSITY. Do you want to learn more?
PhotoCredit: On the road to Machu Pichu - Susan Ellsworth
