I learned today that 2010 is the year of the tiger (according to the Chinese zodiac). I’m planning on embodying at least one of the traits of the tiger this year, according to Chinese culture and folklore: fearlessness.

As some of you know, within the past month, I’ve announced that I’m getting divorced (again) and that I accepted a new position in an entirely new career field–sales–with a fabulous software reseller/technology company. In addition, I’ll probably be relisting my house, hoping to downsize to one that’s more affordable and easier to maintain.

If there were a time for fearlessness, it is now.

I had lunch with a friend today, and over some spring rolls and Jasmine tea, she told me that she considers me a courageous person because I’m willing to admit when things aren’t working and to take action and do things differently. 

I’ve never considered myself a very courageous person. Ever since I broke my leg in 7th grade, I’ve been somewhat of a weenie when it comes to doing anything physically dangerous or risky. I order the same dishes at the same restaurants and drive the same routes to and from familiar places. I’ve never even gambled. The idea of anyone considering me courageous came as a bit of a surprise, honestly.

I remember in college taking a class on Plato as part of my religion/philosophy minor. One of the dialogues discusses courage… what does it mean? how is it best defined? is it something demonstrated by acts or embodied in the spirit?

I’ve decided that, for me, for today, and for the year of the tiger, courage is stepping out of fear and into faith. It’s taking the steps necessary to ensure my peace of mind, joy, and spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s taking those steps even when others don’t want to walk beside me, hold my hand as I put one foot in front of the other, or applaud in approval as I face the unknown. It’s being willing to take action on what I believe is right, regardless of whether others agree. It’s moving ahead with a smile on my face and gratitude in my heart instead of looking back with regret.

So I’m going to embrace my friend’s compliment, embrace my own definition of courage, and embody the tiger this year. I’m going to live fearlessly.