The Courage-Size Equation: Expand Your Life

The quote, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear” by Franklin D. Roosevelt, is a powerful reminder that we often let fear hold us back from living our best lives. However, with the right mindset and skills, we can expand our courage and overcome our fears. The Courage-Size Equation is a concept that can help us understand how to do just that. In this article, we will explore what the Courage-Size Equation is, how it works, and how you can apply it to your life to expand your courage and live a more fulfilling life.

What is The Courage-Size Equation?

The Courage-Size Equation is a concept developed by David Schnarch, a licensed psychologist and author of the book “Passionate Marriage.” According to Schnarch, the Courage-Size Equation is the relationship between the size of our problems and the level of courage required to face them. In other words, the bigger the problem, the more courage we need to face it.

Schnarch believes that our problems are like weights, and our courage is like a muscle. Just as we need to lift heavier weights to build stronger muscles, we need to face larger problems to build stronger courage. However, just like with weightlifting, if we try to lift weights that are too heavy for us, we risk injury. Similarly, if we try to face problems that are too big for us, we risk emotional and psychological harm.

How Does the Courage-Size Equation Work?

The Courage-Size Equation is a dynamic process that involves assessing the size of a problem, determining the level of courage needed to face it, and developing the necessary skills to overcome it. Here’s how it works:

1. Assess the Size of the Problem: The first step in the Courage-Size Equation is to assess the size of the problem. This involves understanding the scope and magnitude of the problem, how it impacts your life, and the potential consequences of not addressing it.
2. Determine the Level of Courage Required: Once you have assessed the size of the problem, the next step is to determine the level of courage required to face it. This involves understanding the emotional, physical, and psychological challenges that may arise as you try to overcome the problem.
3. Develop Necessary Skills: The final step in the Courage-Size Equation is to develop the necessary skills to overcome the problem. This involves identifying the specific skills, knowledge, and resources needed to confront the problem successfully and developing a plan to acquire them.

By following these three steps, you can build your courage muscle and expand your ability to overcome challenges and face problems head-on.

Why is the Courage-Size Equation Important?

The Courage-Size Equation is important because it provides a framework for understanding how to build courage and overcome fear. Many people let fear hold them back from pursuing their goals, whether it’s starting a business, ending a toxic relationship, or pursuing a new career path. By using the Courage-Size Equation, you can break down your fears and take actionable steps towards conquering them.

The Courage-Size Equation also helps you avoid emotional and psychological harm by acknowledging that some problems are too big to handle alone. By assessing the size of the problem and determining the level of courage required, you can seek out the support and resources you need to overcome the challenge successfully.

How to Apply the Courage-Size Equation to Your Life

Now that you understand what the Courage-Size Equation is and why it’s important, let’s explore how to apply it to your life.

1. Identify Your Problems: The first step in applying the Courage-Size Equation to your life is to identify your problems. This can be anything from personal challenges to professional obstacles. Take some time to reflect on the areas of your life where you feel stuck or overwhelmed.
2. Assess the Size of the Problem: Once you have identified your problems, the next step is to assess their size. Ask yourself the following questions:
   • What is the scope and magnitude of the problem?
   • How does it impact my life?
   • What are the potential consequences of not addressing it?
3. Determine the Level of Courage Required: After assessing the size of the problem, the next step is to determine the level of courage required to face it. Ask yourself the following questions:
   • What emotional, physical, and psychological challenges may arise as I try to overcome this problem?
   • Do I have the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to tackle this problem successfully?
   • What can I do to build my courage muscle and prepare for the challenges ahead?
4. Develop Necessary Skills: The final step in applying the Courage-Size Equation is to develop the necessary skills to overcome the problem. This may involve seeking out support and resources, such as therapy, coaching, or training. It may also involve taking small, incremental steps towards facing the problem head-on.

Benefits of Applying the Courage-Size Equation

By applying the Courage-Size Equation to your life, you can experience several benefits, including:

1. Increased Confidence: Facing your problems head-on can boost your self-esteem and confidence. When you develop the skills and courage to overcome challenges, you feel empowered and more capable of achieving your goals.
2. Improved Resilience: Overcoming challenges and facing your fears can help build resilience. You learn to bounce back from setbacks and recover from failures, making you more equipped to handle future challenges.
3. Greater Productivity: When you’re not bogged down by fear, you can focus on being productive and achieving your goals. You’ll feel more motivated and capable of taking on challenges, leading to greater success in your personal and professional life.

Conclusion

Expanding your courage is essential to living a fulfilling and meaningful life. The Courage-Size Equation provides a framework for developing the skills and mindset needed to face your fears and overcome challenges. By assessing the size of your problems, determining the level of courage required, and developing the necessary skills, you can build your courage muscle and live the life you desire. Remember, courage isn’t about the absence of fear, but rather the willingness to confront it and pursue something greater. So don’t let fear hold you back – apply the Courage-Size Equation to your life and start expanding your courage today.