1.5 minute read.
I have been humbled by the number of people who have reached out in response to my blog, “A past courageous act in the future.” People have shared words of encouragement with me; they have shared that my story has inspired them to be courageous; and they have shared their own stories of courage with me.
The story that follows is one of these shared stories. While the writer will remain anonymous, I know this person well. I have learnt much from them about the importance of humanity in leadership. While the immediate response to the experience below may have been fight, fright or flight, I have learnt from them that replacing this response with compassion and kindness reaps far greater benefits for all.
Our guest blogger’s story, in their words …
Working as a team member on a consulting project can be an exhilarating experience but at times can also be very challenging.
On one occasion, a colleague (who viewed himself as my “boss”) began to verbally abuse me in the presence of colleague consultants and friends. Although I was shocked and felt embarrassed, humiliated and intimidated I decided to stay in the room and hear him out.
At that moment I did not see my actions as courageous but Dina’s recent Moscow story prompted me to reflect on and reframe this experience which I had preferred to forget. I now see that “forgetting” hurtful interactions without reflection is a major obstacle to learning. Yes, it was indeed a courageous choice to stay in the room to listen to his tirade of venom but now armed with this new perspective I feel more confident about how to respond (rather than react) next time it happens. My reflection on this incident also reminded me that I made a commitment at that time never to partner him again as a group facilitator … a commitment that also demanded courage but one I have honoured . On reflection I now understand that his behaviour was driven by intense anxiety rather than personal malice which enables me to forgive him but not forget the pain of the incident. My courage served me well on that day even though it was not a conscious choice at the time. A real gift from this painful experience is the realisation that a reservoir of courage lies within even though not recognised during the intensity of the moment.
“These words have always inspired me in moments of challenge … they are my courage anthem and a good reminder that when courage is called for, I need and have friends to support me.”
GUEST BLOGGER ON “AN INVITATION TO BRAVE SPACE”
And one more quote from our guest blogger because I think it too important not to repeat …
“A real gift from this painful experience is the realisation that a reservoir of courage lies within even though not recognised during the intensity of the moment.”
GUEST BLOGGER
To our guest blogger, thank you for sharing your story. I know this will inspire others to courage too. You have certainly inspired me on many occasions.
If anyone else would like to share their story, please be in touch. My aim is to keep sharing stories for as long as people would like to share them.
@CourageChick
Leading with courage 