Courage to farm differently.
Every week I ask my Brave New Girls podcast guest how they define courage. This is how award-winning author, columnist, and radio presenter Jenny Jefferies thinks of it:
"For me, I think it's to mainly look beyond yourself and to give other people a voice and to have really deep, meaningful conviction in what you do and to believe in yourself more than anything. 'Cause if you don't believe in yourself, no one else is going to. And I think courage comes from having a good heart and good people around you."
It’s the quiet, consistent conviction to stand up for something bigger than ourselves. It’s choosing to speak out when it would be easier to stay silent. It’s believing in your mission even when the odds are stacked against you. Most of all, it’s about connection- drawing strength from others, and using that strength to uplift more voices in return.
Through her books and her activism for regenerative farming and sustainable fishing, Jenny embodies courage in action. She didn’t grow up in this world- she stepped into it, learned its language, and now champions the farmers and fishers who feed us. She uses her platform to shine a light on those working against the tide, cultivating not just crops and catches, but a better future for us all.
So how can we grow this kind of courage in our own lives?
Start by looking outward. Courage begins when we look beyond ourselves. That might mean supporting others, standing up for what’s right, or daring to try something new even if it scares us. Courage is built in community- it doesn’t thrive in isolation.
Braver together.
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Dare to do things differently, for a happier, healthier, impactful life.
Here are practical ways to embrace courage & support a healthier, more sustainable world:
10 Actionable Steps to Build Courage:
Use your voice for others – Speak up for someone who may not be heard, whether in your workplace, community, or online.
Act on your convictions – Don’t just talk about your values—live them, even when it's inconvenient or unpopular.
Believe in yourself – Cultivate self-trust through small wins and consistent actions that align with who you truly are.
Surround yourself with good people – Build a supportive circle of friends, mentors, and allies who reflect the values you hold dear.
Embrace discomfort – Step outside your comfort zone regularly; growth only comes through challenge.
Champion someone else's cause – Amplify a voice or movement you believe in, even if it doesn’t directly affect you.
Be visible – Share your story or your work, even if it makes you feel vulnerable. Visibility inspires others.
Stay informed and compassionate – Courage is grounded in knowledge and empathy. Learn, listen, and respond with kindness.
Take small, brave steps – Courage doesn’t always mean leaping. Sometimes it’s making the call, sending the email, or saying the truth.
Rest and recharge – Courage isn’t sustainable without care. Prioritise your wellbeing so you can keep showing up.
Courage, at its heart, is a ripple effect. When you act with courage, you give others permission to do the same. Jenny Jefferies is a shining example of how personal conviction, paired with empathy and a strong community, can create meaningful change.
True courage is using your voice to uplift others- start small, stay true, and surround yourself with people who help you grow.
PS. As your Wellbeing Coach, I give you the tools to heal, grow & create the life you want.
If you’d like support in growing your inner Brave New Girl for a healthier, happier, impactful life, book in for a free chat and we can take it from there: BOOK A CHAT
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