What’s the first thing you think about when you hear the word "brave"?
Is it heroes climbing mountains and saving lives? Is it leaders fighting to make the world a better place for future generations, or teachers and firefighters? Or is it driving with the EMPTY gas light on?
I have some news for you: It’s all of the above.
One of the greatest things about bravery is that it looks different on everyone. For some, bravery might be physical acts of defiance—like running a marathon—and for others, it might be expressing their feelings or standing up for what is right. But one thing everyone’s acts of courage have in common? They’re infectious.
In 2014, researchers found that emotional states can be transferred from person to person via what scientists call “emotional contagion.” Emotional contagion explains why people cry when they see others cry (just me?) but, in a more positive sense, it also explains why we are apt to act in courageous ways when we see others being brave—even from a viral video circulating online.
Emotional contagion explains why people cry when they see others cry but, in a more positive sense, it also explains why we are apt to act in courageous ways when we see others being brave.
The vulnerability that comes with bravery can create an astounding ripple effect.
But if you’re struggling to think of the last time you flexed your own bravery muscle, guess what: Bravery isn’t always a groundbreaking endeavor. It’s a skill that’s practiced and honed over time, through the small acts that you do on the regular. Everything from making a decision to sticking with your personal values counts.
Bravery isn’t always a groundbreaking endeavor. It's a skill that’s practiced and honed over time, through the small acts that you do on the regular.
Here are just 21 mini moments of bravery you’re probably already doing on a daily basis. Savor your courage in these small but mighty moments, and let it empower you when it’s time for that next brave step forward.
1. Getting out of bed and leaving your home
Some days, this can feel incredibly hard—and showing up is a huge feat. Pat yourself on the back for this one.
2. Being an active, voting citizen
Exercising your right as a citizen is a small step with enormous impact.
3. Being kind to a stranger
It takes energy to be kind, but doing so can make a small difference in someone’s day.
4. Getting vulnerable in a conversation with someone
It can spark a flame of courage in yourself and others.
5. Setting a goal
Recognizing your potential and committing to it? That's a big deal.
6. Showing someone that you care
Taking the time to love a pet or a partner, or even shooting a text to a friend, is an act of bravery.
7. Accepting what’s out of your control
It’s not easy to accept some things are out of your hands, but it can help you push through your day with a stronger mindset.
8. Saying 'no'
Being honest about what you don’t want is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.
9. Saying 'yes'
Especially when it’s to a new challenge—it takes a lot of faith in yourself.
10. Managing your money
Financial independence? It’s not easy to navigate—but it means you trust yourself to be responsible.
11. Being bad at things
It means breaking out of your comfort zone and expand your horizons.
12. Being alone
Cherishing solo-time in the face of expectations is a defiant act.
13. Owning what makes you happy
Like that television show your friends don’t like or that book you found in the library. Your opinions matter too!
14. Setting boundaries
Hard to do, but it can make all the difference in your day.
15. Turning your energy into art
Whether it’s expressing yourself through a witty tweet, powerful photograph or fresh poem, it’s brave to show all sides of you.
16. Putting yourself out there
Asking questions or being vulnerable in new ways can help you soar.
17. Taking up space
Especially when the world tells you you don’t belong in a certain room? That’s bravery.
18. Accepting your imperfections
Insecurities are sticky—challenging them takes a lot of courage.
19. Having empathy
The news can often be hard to swallow, but taking time to connect with other people and their experience is a brave act of empathy.
20. Accepting your emotions
All of them, including the not-so-fun-ones.
21. Being honest
With yourself, with those around you—it takes guts to do it.
Read next: How to Feel at Home With Yourself (Because Succulents Can Only Do So Much)
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