Staying true to and consistent with values can improve your life in many regards, such as the quality of your relationships. Among the array of values we aspire toward, courage is one that stands out as both rare and exceptionally rewarding if embodied. Here’s why courage is important in life:
Can Present Opportunities
No one who ever accomplished anything or had great opportunities just waited for things to happen for them. Rather, they pursued what it is they wanted to pursue even in times of criticism from peers or moments of self-doubt. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” – Matthew 7:7.
If you have a goal or a purpose in life, it’s important that you see it through to its natural end; otherwise not only will opportunities fail to appear, but you will have regretted not taking that chance on something potentially meaningful.
If you do not talk to that woman, you might never see her again. If you do not work on your purpose, you may never feel a true sense of fulfilment. Again, waiting for something to happen at the right time is not a step that accomplished people take. Opportunities will only present themselves if you go after them, and courage is important in this regard because it helps you to do so.
Can Stimulate Mental Growth
Because courage requires you to do something that you would normally refrain from, it can be seen as a tool to be used for your brain and mind’s growth.
On the brain level, an area called the anterior mid-cingulate cortex becomes strengthened, which contributes to increased willpower, and potentially other mental processes like memory and planning. It should be noted that the research article I have referenced here does not definitively say that mental processes beyond willpower are strengthened – it is only implicated. You can see the full article here.
Also on the brain level, I can personally relate to positive shifts in my mental health afterward. I see courageous acts as small victories that contribute to feelings of self-worth, which has a great effect on my self-image. And since self-image is the foundation for mental health, I can operate with higher self-esteem throughout my day.
As for the mind level, your understanding and perception of courage may change as you will be able to experience it for yourself. You may come to realize that it is a powerful asset offering many gifts while also strengthening you as an individual.
Can Build Character
Your character is complex – just as your entire being is – but typically it is judged by your morality as it relates to others. Though this is important, character reaches beyond the confines of morality, encompassing mental qualities as well. These qualities contribute to a more versatile and complete self, which is ideal for just about anyone.
This is where courage comes in. Behaving courageously in your daily life is a respectable mental characteristic as it is a choice. By extension, it is rare and desired by many. Furthermore, it can inspire others to integrate it into their lives, serving also as a moral good to the world – hence the versatility and completeness that comes from both facets.
Can Attract Women
Courage is an inherently masculine trait, which women are well aware of. The more feminine a woman is, the more attracted she will be to masculine traits from the opposite sex.
With that said, embodying courage is rare, as mentioned above, so you will automatically be separated from other men when a woman is choosing who to be with. And since masculine qualities in men are declining today, this would give you a clear advantage.