Courage has been a lifelong lesson for me, one that’s shifted and grown along the way. As a kid, I thought it meant being fearless—standing tall in front of a 4H meeting, giving my reasons in a livestock judging contest, or talking on the microphone during showmanship. But over the years, I’ve come to realize that real courage isn’t about never feeling afraid. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin, taking care of yourself and showing up for others in a way that feels true and sustainable. For me, that meant stepping out of my small town and moving across the country to experience life from a new perspective.
Courage isn’t always about grand, bold actions—it’s often about being authentic, especially when it feels difficult. In Principled Innovation, we emphasize leading with integrity and care and that starts with how we treat ourselves. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. It’s what gives you the strength to be there for others in a meaningful way. Setting boundaries, sticking to your values and showing yourself the same kindness you’d offer a friend—that’s the quiet, powerful kind of courage that makes a difference.
This kind of courage also shapes how we build and nurture our communities. When we create spaces where people can truly be themselves, we invite trust, honesty and deeper connections. Taking care of one another doesn’t always need grand gestures—it’s the little things: listening, checking in, or making room for different perspectives. At its core, being yourself and encouraging others to do the same is one of the most meaningful ways we can help create a community that really thrives.