The Secret Habits of Courageous People—And How You Can Copy Them

What the bravest people do differently—and how to make their habits your own

What if courage wasn’t a rare gift, but a set of habits anyone could learn? ‘The Courage Habit’ by Kate Swoboda makes a compelling case that the bravest people aren’t fearless—they’re just really good at working with their fear. Swoboda’s research and coaching experience reveal that courageous individuals consistently practice four habits: body awareness, mindful listening, story reframing, and community building.



First, courageous people pay attention to their bodies. They notice when fear shows up as tension or restlessness and use simple rituals—like breathing, stretching, or taking a walk—to ground themselves. This helps them pause before reacting and choose actions that align with their values.

Second, they listen to their inner critic with curiosity, not hostility. Instead of shutting down self-doubt, they acknowledge it, thank it for its concern, and then decide for themselves what to do next. This non-attached listening reduces the critic’s power and frees up energy for bolder choices.

Third, they are skilled at reframing. When faced with setbacks or failures, they look for the lesson instead of the loss. They rewrite their inner stories—shifting from ‘I’m not cut out for this’ to ‘I’m learning and growing.’ This habit of reframing builds resilience and keeps them moving forward.

Finally, courageous people don’t go it alone. They seek out mentors, allies, and communities that encourage risk-taking and celebrate progress. Research shows that being part of a supportive group increases follow-through on big goals and accelerates growth.

‘The Courage Habit’ is packed with stories of people who used these habits to overcome adversity, launch creative projects, and inspire others. Swoboda’s message: you don’t have to be perfect to be brave. Start with one habit, practice it daily, and watch your confidence grow.



If you want to lead with courage—at work, at home, or in your community—these are the habits to cultivate. With patience and practice, you can become the role model you’ve always admired.