“Fear is a very real emotion that can render us powerless. Much of our power is to be found in the choices we make and the actions we take, with every choice either leading us down the same familiar path or propelling us toward a new future. Without warning, fear can take over.

There is so much turmoil in our hearts and in our heads that it is easy to lose sight of what’s truly important to us. We are influenced by the myriad events in our lives—both the joyous and grace-filled events and those that blindside us and leave us hurt, angry, sad, or grief ridden.

Every day we make choices and are confronted with different possibilities that shape our future. We often treat these choices as if they mean nothing, as if there will be no consequences, or if there are, we will deal with them later—tomorrow, next week, or whenever.

But these day-to-day choices either whittle away at our self-esteem and confidence or add to our character, making us feel stronger and more alive. Our ability to cut through fear and to act with courage is determined by whether our “choices are made from thoughtfulness and planning or while we are on automatic pilot (a n”

Excerpt From: Debbie Ford & Wayne W. Dyer. “Courage.”