Have you ever been scared but took the plunge anyway? Healthy risks look different for everyone.

If you would like to invite more “bravery” into your life, here are some helpful tips:

First, recognize that you have fear. We all do; getting nervous is a mild form of fear. Realize that you don’t have to be perfect, and admitting it to others can be liberating.

Create a culture of bravery. Before making it big, the cartoonist of Dilbert was applying for work everywhere. Adams accrued one rejection letter after the next. He even received recommendations to take drawing classes. And then one day, he got signed. His new boss loved his work and believed that great success was possible for him. Adams says that the moment this happened, he began to draw better. He didn’t really know how it happened, but that it was because someone believed in him. And that is what you can do for others, and what they can do for you.

F.E.A.R. = False Evidence Appearing Real. Keep asking “what am I afraid of?” until you get to the bottom of it. Once you know the answer, you can reprogram you self-talk with more rational messages.

Listen to your body as the guide. That racing heart, sweaty palms, or lump in your throat may be cluing you in to a bravery crossroads.

Ask yourself “what would I do if I weren’t afraid?” Do it today. Take the first small step. Just dial the phone number of the person you’ve been avoiding. Or say the first word in the sentence you need to say. The rest will follow.

Rehearse a positive outcome in your mind. Your subconscious mind will have a track to follow and successful possible path. And remember why you want to accomplish what is in front of you.

And lastly, set bravery goals. Think about opportunities to take calculated risks and stretch yourself. Think about upcoming situations before they hit and make a “bravery plan.” With my job as a leadership coach and management consultant, I work with groups and individuals on topics like conflict management, accountability, goal setting, motivation, and more. Every one of my clients chooses to face fears, overcome, and live their lives “on purpose.” You can do this too, be liberated from fear, and the results will allow you to live your best life.

“Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway.” John Wayne