In the journey of life, courage is often the unsung hero that propels us toward change and growth. It's the force that challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.

Bonnie Garmus aptly reminds us, "Courage is the root of change - and change is what we're chemically designed to do."

This powerful statement is a call to action, urging us to break free from the constraints of fear and self-doubt and to boldly chart our own course, both personally and financially.

The first step in this journey is recognising that fear is a natural part of the human experience. It's not something to be ashamed of, but rather a signal that we are on the cusp of something significant.

Embracing courage doesn't mean the absence of fear; it means acknowledging our fears and choosing to move forward regardless. In the context of financial planning, this might mean taking calculated risks, such as investing in a new venture, pursuing further education to enhance career prospects, or even making a significant life change like relocation for better opportunities.

Courage also involves challenging societal expectations and stereotypes that often hold us back. This is particularly relevant when it comes to financial independence and empowerment. For too long, many have been constrained by narrow definitions of what they can achieve based on gender, race, economic status, or religion. Embracing courage means rejecting these limitations and believing in our unique abilities and potential. It's about taking control of our financial destiny, whether it's negotiating for a well-deserved raise, starting a business, or managing our investments proactively.

Moreover, courage is about self-discovery and embracing our talents. Each of us has unique skills and passions that, when nurtured, can lead to fulfilling and financially rewarding careers or ventures. It requires the bravery to pursue what truly resonates with us, even if it goes against the conventional wisdom of what is considered a "safe" or "practical" career path.

But courage isn’t just about grand gestures; it's also found in the small, everyday decisions we make. It's in the discipline of saving a portion of our income, the diligence of creating and sticking to a budget, and the perseverance in paying off debt. These actions might seem mundane, but they require a consistent commitment to our long-term financial well-being.

As we look ahead, let's use Garmus' words as a mantra: "Ask yourself what YOU will change. And then get started.” This change could be in how we approach our finances, how we view our capabilities, or how we plan for our future. It's about setting goals that reflect our true aspirations and taking actionable steps to achieve them.

By embracing courage, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities. We become architects of our own destiny, capable of crafting a life that is as financially sound as it is personally fulfilling. Let this be the year we tap into our courage, challenge the status quo, and ignite the change we wish to see in our lives.