Being brave does not mean you aren’t afraid. The verb, brave is defined by Webster’s Dictionaryas to meet or face courageously, to defy, challenge, or dare or to make splendid. Isn’t this the dream, “to dare and succeed, and to make a splendid life?”

How do you know if you are brave? How does it look and feel to be brave? We can all think of dozens of instances of other peoples bravery. We see it on the news when firefighters run into a burning building, or our military takes down an enemy force. We see bravery in the child who is wrestling with cancer and in the parents and caregivers supporting them. When I think of “living bravely,” the actions are much smaller in scope, but often with tremendous impact.Here are ten examples:

1. Speak up for yourself.
2. Be kind to yourself.
3. Invite feedback.
4. Trust your gut.
5. Risk being wrong.
6. Share your story.
7. Sing out loud, even when others can hear you.
8. Take a nap when you are tired.
9. Try something new.
10. Preach what is in your heart.

If you picked three of these items on the list or came up with three on your own how would your life change? In our world today we see the power of sharing your story as women come forth in the #MeToo Movement. It is influential for both the individual and the collective. Speaking up for yourself doesn’t have to be against a Goliath, it can be as simple as getting the onion rings you ordered when the server gave you french fries by mistake. Try something new, like take a nap when you are tired! That might be a two for one. Most of the women I know are caregivers for children with special needs or aging parents or both. We get caught up in taking care of everyone else’s needs and put ours on the back burner. What would happen if once a week you put your aspirations at the top of the list?

I am currently working on all ten of the above. It is exhilarating and scary as hell. I’m afraid of heights, closed in spaces and roller coasters, and here I am standing at the top of a personal abyss and free falling by writing a blog. What are you going to do to live brave? Share your adopted list with me in the comments section.  Need a little inspiration?  Watch this video of Sara Bareilles song BRAVE.