Beyond Success: Finding Happiness through Courage

Last week we talked about the importance of Gratitude in finding happiness and success.  This week we’ll focus on the second pillar of finding happiness : Courage. Our ability to try new things, face challenges head on and learn from both our mistakes and successes are what bring us happiness. Courage is the key character trait that allows us to face and try things we do not always want to do and in the process of having the courage to try we find happiness.

Teaching Children to Find True Happiness Through Courage

At Beyond Education we believe that Courage is the second pillar and an important aspect of discovering happiness in your life. In our lives there are often reflection or decision points that our responses have great bearing on our future. It is during these moments that having courage is important to move forward and find happiness. How can one be happy if they never try? Never know if they can do something or not?  If you try and fail at least you know and if you have a sense of gratitude as we mentioned before you will still be happy. Therefore courage is that second part of the happiness puzzle. The part that allows us to grow and learn which is an integral part of being happy. So finding ways to teach and talk about this with our children is a very important factor to raising happy, curious children.

Building a Character Trait of Courage:

Building a courageous character trait in your child is not easy but very possible. It takes time but the benefits will not only help them in their academic quest but pay dividends well into their future career and lives. 

Courage in College and Beyond

Courage is a vital trait that extends beyond childhood, shaping success and happiness throughout college and life. In college, courage helps students step out of their comfort zones—whether it’s joining a new club, speaking up in class, or pursuing a passion despite challenges. It’s about navigating failures, building meaningful connections, and taking initiative to shape their own journey. Beyond college, courage empowers individuals to embrace risks, adapt to change, and continue growing. By fostering courage early, we equip students to thrive in college and lead fulfilling, impactful lives.

Conclusion: What’s Next?

Next week we will look at the third pillar of happiness which is connection or having relationships with others and the world around you. How do we teach and help our children become connected, willing to think, tolerate and respond to all sorts of different people and environments?  Connectedness is what brings us purpose and meaning in our lives and is crucial for happiness. If we have the courage to try, and the gratitude to accept them with connectedness we bring meaning and purpose to our lives.