Climbing Mount Everest or serving in combat are obvious acts of courage. But everyday courage is just as vital.

Every day, small acts of courage by honorable leaders shape our lives and organizational culture. Honor rests on three pillars: Character, Courage, and Commitment. These principles form the basis for The Honor Code, specifically Article 7: “Be Courageous. Courage is at the core of all honorable behavior. Without it, doubts and fears will take you out.”

When dishonorable behavior occurs, a lack of courage is almost always the root cause. People usually know the right choice, but they lack the nerve to act on it. As C.S. Lewis noted, “Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.”

While workplace challenges don’t involve physical torture, dishonorable choices still stem from fear. Insecure leaders often avoid three critical actions:

• Confronting poor attitudes and behavior

• Giving positive, encouraging feedback.

• Standing up for what is right when others lay low.

Avoiding these moments undermines accountability and morale. To strengthen your daily courage, apply these three quick tips:

1. Increase Awareness: Reflect on where you are delaying a decision. Identify the underlying fear.
2. Build a Plan: Seek perspective from a trusted teammate to clarify your next steps without emotional baggage.
3. Lean In and Act: Execute your plan step-by-step. You can never go wrong doing right.

Courage disarms insecurity and uncovers the truth. Be courageous—and remember, courage is contagious.

You can also read the entire coaching on this topic entitled “Is Fear Quietly Sabotaging Your Team’s Morale?”

Lead with Unshakable Integrity: Download the Honor Code

In the heat of daily pressure, it’s easy for a leader’s character to be tested by fear, pride, or the desire to “look good.” But true influence isn’t built on image—it’s built on trust. Derived from lessons of resilience and survival, the Honor Code provides seven foundational articles designed to anchor your leadership and unify your team.

Are you ready to set a higher standard for yourself and your organization? Join a community of leaders committed to character, courage, and commitment.

Download Your Free Copy of The Honor Code (this link downloads a PDF document)

SAVE 30% on The Honor Two-Book Combo Package!

Purchase these award-winning books that Lee mentioned in this month’s coaching in one package. Leading with Honor outlines the 14 leadership lessons learned in the POW camps of Vietnam. And, Engage with honor applies many of the original leadership lessons into a practical Courageous Accountability Model.

Purchase on Amazon.com

Purchase in the Leading with Honor Store