Photo by Live and Learn.
What is courage? This was a question I had to think hard about when asked to share my “personal story” of a courageous act during today’s plenary session. It was especially challenging because I don’t think that many of my actions have been especially “courageous.” I would describe myself as a hard-worker, dependable, loyal, respectful, and friendly, but courageous?
Compared to Frances Lucas, our keynote speaker (who was also the youngest vice-president for student affairs in the country at age 29), I was not feeling like much of a daredevil. But, as I listened to my fellow participants open up about their personal experiences I began to reframe my own. I’ve had difficult conversations, worked under the pressure of deadlines, asked for funding, and spoken publicly to large audiences.
And the strategy that has helped me get through all these tough situations is the same strategy that Frances Lucas unveiled as the secret to being courageous. I went in knowing what I wanted the outcome to be, whether it was getting two staff members to work together or making 500 people laugh at my jokes.
So, what is the secret to being courageous? Know what you want, and ask for it. It’s that simple.
Listening to Frances Lucas was definitely a highlight of today’s program. She is dynamic, funny, and entertaining, as well as extremely experienced and accomplished.
Another highlight of my day was speaking one-on-one with Ellen Heffernan of SJG-The Spelman & Johnson Group. Heffernan gave an excellent breakout session on Career Development, which covered everything from defining your ideal job to negotiating your salary. She gave practical and useful advice, and she is a wealth of information. I was so enamored with her presentation that I cornered her in between sessions and asked her to look over my resume! She was extremely gracious and generous, as I am sure my little “consultation” wasn’t exactly how she had planned to spend her downtime.
When have you had to be courageous in the workplace?
Sounds like asking her to look at your resume was an act or courage!