Day 7_Put Your Brave On

Hello! Welcome to Day 7 of 'Your Triumph'.

We understand that it may take a lot of courage and determination to change the way you think and act.

For instance, how much courage and focus did it take yesterday for you to take a step toward your goal?

Take a brief mental break.

Go to the video icon to watch Sara Bareilles and friends dance to the song, 'Brave'.

Tell us what you thought about the message when you've finished.

Whether you realize it or not if you've gotten this far in life, you've shown extraordinary bravery and determination.

The saying goes that “courage is moving forward in the face of fear”.

Each step you take - even if you're afraid while doing it - is a courageous step toward the life you've always wanted.

Can you feel it?

Take a moment to imagine what your life would be like if you overcame the obstacles currently in the way of you reaching your goals.

What important action are you avoiding because you're afraid of what might happen if you try?

If you can't think of anything that you should be doing that you aren't, then take a look at some examples listed below. See if you feel any of them.

* not following the crowd
* getting out of a bad situation
* trying a new hobby
* entering a contest
* finishing school or returning to school to get your GED or diploma
* enrolling in college
* staying in school even when you think it's hopeless
* starting a job
* learning a new skill
* moving to a different neighborhood to get away from bad influences
* engaging in conversations with people who seem different from you
* saying you're sorry
* finding new friends who bring out your best
* asking for help when you need it through a pastor, mentor or older friend
* continuing these navitents (navigational steps)

Describe how you would be different if you approached what's currently in your way as a challenge - an adventure - rather than an obstacle that's insurmountable.

Remember you've been brave all along. You've overcome a lot to get to this point. That's all the proof you need.

Take a big, deep breath and do the thing you listed in Step 5. As you do it, remember the image you had of "Brave You" in action.

If it's possible to do so, go to a trusted source - a friend or mentor - and tell them what brave action you've chosen, and ask them to hold you accountable in seeing it through.

Will you?

If you haven't already done so, you can post to your peers for more insight and encouragement in the Next Step Campfire (local group of teens and young adults your age), Campsite (national group of youth like you) and Campground (international group of people with similar experiences as you).

Post to Publisher in the last open box on the page, and we can hook you up if you haven't already done so.

See you tomorrow!