An Injection of Courage
Every time the Winter Olympics approaches, I think back fondly on my days as an ice skater. During my elementary and middle school years, one of the biggest constants in my life was skating.
This year, as I reminisce, I’m reminded of some advice my skating coach gave me that still sticks with me today.
I was in middle school, already significantly taller than most professional skaters, and struggling with learning a new jump. I had the movements down, but just couldn’t get the air I needed to complete the rotations.
And my coach told me, “You need an injection of courage.”
She was right. I was scared to get the momentum and lift I would need to do the jump. I needed to go faster and higher than I ever had before, which terrified me. So rather than work on technique or power, we needed to work on my courage. My willingness to do something I hadn’t done before.
Have you ever faced something similar?
I see this all the time with my coaching clients.
They know what they want to do. They just need the courage to actually do it.
To advocate for themselves with their leadership.
To have the difficult conversation.
To say NO to something they want to do, so they can say YES to something even greater.
To take the leap of faith and step away from what’s not working so they can lean into what they really want.
Easier said than done. We often know what to do, then get in our own way to make it happen.
When you’re looking for the “injection of courage” to do the thing you know you need to do, consider these tips:
Know why
Strong action comes from strong alignment. Do you know WHY you want to do the courageous thing? Remind yourself of why doing the thing is important and keep your eye on the goal.
Start small
Just like a weightlifter starts small and builds up to the heaviest weights, we can often find ways to build up to the big courageous act. What small action can you take now, to help you build the courageous muscle you need?
Make it a game
Sometimes focusing on the scary parts of stepping up in new ways can feel overwhelming. Can you make a game of it, like celebrating every NO on your way to the next YES?
We all need that “injection of courage” from time to time. Leaning into our why, starting small and building, and making it a game can help us move from knowing the thing to do and doing the thing.
What will your “injection of courage” help you do this week?
Send me a message and share yours, and I’ll share what I’m leaning into this week, too.
February 5, 2026
About the author:
Christina Von Stroh is a leadership coach who helps her clients become wildly successful by applying iterative software development practices to achieve their dreams. Want to work with Christina to help you iterate towards the person you’re becoming?
Book your free strategy session.
