Cultivate Courage for Positive Change

Be Bold and Brave at Your Credit Union

What if I told you that by giving yourself permission to be afraid, you are  also give yourself permission to be courageous? Here’s the truth: courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the decision to act despite it. 

Courage is the fear-overriding response that empowers us to advocate for our members, embrace changes in the workplace, and tackle challenges head-on. It’s undeniably real and instantly transformative. And remember, being courageous doesn't mean being reckless or inconsiderate. It's about facing your fears and acting with integrity.

Think of a time when you were afraid but chose to act anyway. How did it feel? Empowering, right? That’s the power of courage. It turns fear into a driving force for positive change.

In a credit union, courage can manifest in various ways. It could be stepping up to propose a new process that improves member service, speaking up during team meetings to share innovative ideas, or addressing a member's issue with empathy and determination, even when it's challenging.

So, let’s get into three tips for cultivating courage:

Make a List of Things You’ Would Do If You Weren’t Afraid: Take a moment to think about the things you’ would accomplish if fear wasn’t holding you back. Write them down. This list becomes your roadmap to courage. Each item on this list is an opportunity to push past your fears and grow. It could be something as simple as speaking up at a meeting or as significant as proposing a new initiative that could enhance member experience.

Gradual Exposure: Gradually expose yourself to the situations you fear, starting with less intimidating scenarios and progressively working up to more challenging ones. This method can help reduce fear over time. For example, if you’re afraid of public speaking, start by speaking in front of a small group, and gradually increase your audience size as you become more comfortable.

Small, Achievable Goals: Set small goals that lead you toward confronting your fears. Celebrate each success to build momentum and confidence. If you fear making cold calls to members, start by making one call a day and gradually increase the number as you gain confidence. Each small victory is a step toward overcoming your fear.

One of the most courageous acts we do inside our credit unions is to advocate for our members, especially when they face difficulties. Whether it's pushing for a better financial solution or helping them navigate a major challenge in their lives, your courage in standing up for their needs can make a significant difference.

In the financial industry, we know that it is constantly evolving. Embrace changes in the workplace with an open mind. Whether it’s new technology or updated regulations, approach these challenges and changes with the courage to learn and adapt. This mindset not only helps you grow but also sets a positive example for your peers.

So, next time fear knocks on your door, greet it with courage and integrity. Let’s continue to grow and inspire each other. And, remember... Ideas spark changes; actions ignite it.