As just about everyone’s grandparents said at some stage: “Growing old isn’t for sissies!” Although many of the difficulties you face in old age are fears and mindsets, there are many tangible hurdles to overcome. It takes real courage to endure through trials with grace. This is further complicated by the inevitable comfort zones we descend into over the course of our lives. Maybe you need the courage to face an ailment, or maybe you just need the courage to try something new. Either way, there’s no time like right now to gather up your courage and face life without fear.

1. Start with Awareness

Become aware of what triggers your fears and self doubt. Listen to your internal dialogue and flesh them out. This is how to avoid making the same mistakes again and again and decide what needs to go and what can stay.

2. Courage means being afraid and acting anyway

One of the most challenging aspects of ageing is that it is inescapable. We are confronted by our primal fears that cannot be avoided. In the face of these fears, you will be surprised how quickly they diminish when you decide to live your life with courage. You’ll soon find yourself brushing off those fears as you boldly stride past them.

3. Courage is a habit

Just like your muscles and mind, courage can be worked out every day. The more you flex your courage, the easier it is to find when you need it most. Practice diving head first into situations that worry you, taking on your small fears and comfort zones first. As you get used to overcoming on a daily basis, you’ll find you can go places you never dreamed of.

4. Find courage in numbers

Share your fears with loved ones and friends. Even the most insurmountable odds feel better when you face them with others. Opening up can make you feel vulnerable, but take courage in the outcome being positive.

5. Accept yourself

Accepting who you are right now will give you immense courage to face adversity. It allows you to live in the present and be content with this moment right now. It stops you from putting off living life until you’ve lost weight or had a facelift. Most importantly, it allows you to love who you are.

“When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back.”

— Paulo Coelho