Embracing the Courage to Live Again

Have you ever felt the weight of unspoken expectations pressing down on you, causing you to forget who you are? 

Life has a way of piling on burdens that can obscure our dreams and dull our passions. Yet, there comes a moment when we must summon the courage to reclaim our dreams, shed unnecessary pressures, and prioritise our well-being. It is about embracing the courage to live fully- a kind gesture towards ourselves that holds the power to transform our lives. When was the last time you allowed yourself to dream without constraints?

Many of us silence our desires out of fear. Fear of failure. Fear of judgment. Or the weight of practicality. However, dreaming is essential for our emotional and psychological health. It fuels our passions, ignites our creativity, and allows us to envision a life filled with possibilities.

Reflecting on my journey, I recognised that the first step toward living courageously again was acknowledging my desire to dream. As a young girl, I had grand visions of greatness- dreams untainted by the harsh voice of practicality. Over time, those dreams were overshadowed by limiting beliefs and whispers telling me what I wanted was unrealistic. It’s a strange sensation, realising that your dreams have been cast aside, akin to an empty bottle adrift near the seashore- devoid of purpose.

For too long, my mind functioned like an abandoned storage room, cluttered with negative thoughts, fear, and insecurities. Embracing the courage to live again is not a straight path; it is a journey that requires releasing unnecessary pressure and cultivating a sense of wonder. It involves reconnecting with my true essence and remembering who I am. It is remembering who God says I am, even when self-doubt creeps in. It is remembering that I deserve to live a life rich with joy, passion, and authenticity.

Taking a leap of faith means challenging myself to dream and letting go of whatever hinders my momentum. It’s about holding space for my desires and imaginative spirit. With God by my side, I realise I have the power to construct a life full of stories of possibilities and miracles.

How can you begin to embrace your own journey? Here are a few steps you might consider:

1. Reflect: Take time to journal about your dreams. What truly excites you? Write down any aspirations that come to mind—no matter how impractical they seem.

2. Challenge Doubts: Identify the limiting beliefs that have held you back. Write a counter-argument to each doubt, reminding yourself of the strength and capabilities you possess.

3. Set Small Goals: Break down your dreams into achievable steps. Start small. Take one action towards your dreams this week, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

4. Surround Yourself with Positivity: Engage with people who uplift and inspire you. Seek out content, communities or influences that encourage dreaming and creativity.

5. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Recognise that it’s okay to stumble; what matters is that you keep moving forward toward your dreams.

May is the month to be courageous, and most importantly, to embrace the freedom to live again. Welcome to my blog series, #SheChoseCourage. I'm thrilled to be joined by the inspiring Nerline Germain on this series. Don't miss her powerful take on choosing courage. Embracing the Courage to Live Again: My Hysterectomy, COVID Battle, and New Purpose

Starting today, allow yourself to dream without constraints, and watch your world open up with possibilities. It’s time to ignite that courage within you.