Courage vs. Bravery

June 13 2025

🌿 Being Brave vs. Being Courageous: A Gentle Reflection for Women Healing from Trauma

Dear Beautiful Soul,

There’s a subtle but powerful difference between being brave and being courageous — especially when you’ve been through something that changed you.

Bravery often looks loud. It’s charging ahead despite the fear. It’s standing tall in the storm. It can feel like a performance, sometimes demanded by the world before we’re ready. It says: Do it anyway. Don’t let them see you flinch.

Courage, however, is quieter. It’s deeply personal. It says: You’re allowed to feel afraid. And you get to move forward anyway — at your own pace. Courage holds your hand in the dark. It whispers: Even if all you can do today is get out of bed, that’s enough.

For women impacted by trauma, this distinction matters.

We’re often told to "be strong" or "just be brave" — as if our healing should look heroic and fast. But true healing honors your courage: the slow, sacred steps you take to reclaim your voice, your body, and your worth. Courage allows for trembling hands. It embraces the tears. It gives you permission to be both vulnerable and powerful.

💬 So, what does courage look like in everyday healing?

• Saying no without apology

• Going to therapy, even when it’s hard

• Resting, because your body remembers

• Asking for help without shame

• Believing you deserve joy

You don’t have to be fearless to heal. You just need to be willing — willing to show up for yourself, day by day.

Let bravery be the armor when you need it. But let courage be the heartbeat that carries you home.

With you, in strength and softness,
Connie