It is often said that courage is the absence of fear in the face of opposition or uncertainty. However this is a common misconception. Courage is not the absence of fear, it is the triumph over fear.

The presence of fear is what makes an act truly courageous. Today, women face a myriad of challenges that continuously call for courage. In the workplace, it takes courage to negotiate for equal pay, call out micro aggressions or to remain visible and ambitious as mothers. Women must constantly advocate for their own worth.

Beyond professional life, women globally need to display raw courage in the face of threats to their autonomy and safety. From fighting for their rights and bodily integrity to enduring and speaking out against gender based violence…a situation women face worldwide.

While the classical definition of courage focuses on confronting physical danger, the scope of feminine courage is broader and encompasses the following:

Moral courage

Moral courage in women is majorly the inner strength to act ethically, as well as to uphold values despite risks like judgment or backlash, often requiring them to challenge patriarchal norms, speak against injustice (like harassment or abuse), and confront difficult situations in professional spheres (e.g., healthcare, leadership) and personal spheres, a skill developed through practice, discussion, and support systems.

A woman shows moral courage by standing up for principles, even when it means facing fear. When women show courage , they become a powerful force for positive change, having the courage to self-reflect and as well accept being wrong.

Many instances of women demonstrating moral courage involve confronting systemic sexism, racism, inequality, victim-blaming narratives, confronting bullying, and protesting oppressive systems, often requiring confrontation with authority figures or societal norms.

Vulnerability courage

The courage to be vulnerable in women is powerful, it is the bravery to show up authentically, to admit struggles, ask for help, and embrace imperfections. This leading to deeper connections, growth, and authentic leadership in personal and professional spheres, despite societal pressures to follow the crowd.

It’s about having the mind to be soft, fierce, and multifaceted, transforming perceived flaws into strengths for resilience and empowerment. It is acknowledging limitations or setbacks and asking for support to build resilience and allow personal development.

Vulnerable women inspire teams by modeling honesty and openness, creating cultures of curiosity and collaboration. They defy expectations of being solely nurturing or strong by embodying a full spectrum of qualities, look delicate to fierce.

Courage of self-determination

The courage of self-determination in women is the strength and bravery required to define their own lives, make independent choices, and pursue their interests, often in the face of restrictive societal expectations, challenges, cultural norms, and systemic barriers. It involves rejecting the status quo and embracing personal autonomy and authenticity.

Everyday resilience

Everyday resilience is a necessity for women. Each new day comes with its challenge and women, regardless of their age, conditions or status must navigate each day as it comes. Being resilient, having the ability to withstand any situation and bounce back is one of the major indicators of inner strength.

To cultivate inner strength, and courage as a woman, you must be ready to:

Face discomfort

Define your values

Prioritize dreams over fear and

Embrace the unfamiliar

Courage is not a single act but a lifelong commitment to rising above fear, doubt, and limitation. Women of all ages in one way or the other, embody this courage daily, through their choices, their resilience, and their refusal to shrink in the face of pressure. Every woman must continue to embrace moral courage, vulnerability, self-determination, and everyday resilience. This will not only transform our own lives but inspire every woman watching to believe she can, too. The world changes when women choose courage, and that change begins within.

Oluwaponmile Shittu is a passionate advocate for women’s and children’s rights, and social justice in Africa. A leading voice at Women For Liberty Africa and a former African Liberty writing fellow.