“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

We all know people we consider to be bold. You know the type – vibrant, confident, courageous, determined, spirited, innovative and visionary. They are the individuals who do whatever it takes to get things done, never make excuses, learn from their mistakes and are constantly moving forward without looking back.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines bold as “fearless before danger; showing or requiring a fearless daring spirit”. But, what does it mean for a woman to be fearless?

Fear is a tricky emotion. It can paralyze you and keep you from your life and dreams, but it can also keep you safe and warn you of danger.   In small doses, fear is a good thing while too much can kill you.

Fearlessness is not the absence of fear, but rather the mastery of fear. It is about getting up when you are down and acknowledging that your fear and strength can and do co-exist in one place, in one goal, in one opportunity. Without fear, we cannot have courage. We cannot act courageously unless we have something to protect, prove or commit to. As women, what can we do to become more fearless and be more bold? Here are some big bold ideas:

1. Set big goals and dare to go for them. Whatever your goals are, think through things, make a plan and bring your own unique idea of happiness into fruition. Don’t be afraid to take good, calculated risks and reach beyond your comfort zone. Go after what you want and pair action with knowledge.

2. Be courageous and conquer your fear. Trust and believe in yourself even during the most difficult situations. Get back up when knocked down. Don’t give up. Try, try again.

3. Be authentic, be real and be self-aware. Don’t hide how you feel. Don’t pretend. Face and embrace your fear.

4. Don’t worry about mistakes or failures. Remember to learn from them and make failure matter.

5. Speak up; say what is on your mind. You do not have to be loud or boisterous but voice your opinion.

6. Expect to succeed. Expect the best from yourself and believe it will happen.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to go at things alone.

Dare to be different. Dare to be bold. Stand out in a crowd…Why would anyone want to fit in a mold? Be original. Be amazing. Be YOU! – Amy Lauer