Courage to try new ways.
Every week I ask my Brave New Girls podcast guest how they define courage. This week, Hannah Standen defines it as:
“For me, it's about being open to growth and trusting that every choice, no matter how small, helps you move forward. It's about being honest with yourself and recognizing what's not working, but also allowing the space for something better.
Every decision I've made has led me to the next decision and it's been a journey. Sustainability is a journey. Growth is a journey. So I think you just really need to be kind to yourself, but then just be open and try new things.”
Hannah’s definition of courage is a gentle yet powerful reminder that progress isn’t linear, nor is it always monumental. Instead, courage lives in the small, intentional choices we make every day—choices that honor honesty, self-compassion, and a willingness to evolve.
Courage as a Journey
Courage, as Hannah so eloquently explains, isn’t about being fearless or making dramatic leaps. It’s about showing up for yourself, even when the path ahead is unclear. It’s acknowledging when something in your life, your work, or your environment isn’t serving you and having the strength to let it go to make space for something better.
Hannah’s journey, both personal and professional, has been defined by this philosophy. As co-founder of Alterist, she has built a brand rooted in sustainability and innovation, which are themselves acts of courage. Sustainability requires patience and a commitment to a vision that doesn’t always yield instant results. It demands faith in incremental progress, much like courage does.
Hannah’s belief that “every decision leads to the next” beautifully encapsulates the idea that we don’t need to have it all figured out before we take the first step. Courage doesn’t demand a perfect plan. It only asks us to trust that each small step forward is a piece of the bigger picture, even if we can’t yet see it.
Using Courage to Grow
This kind of courage is deeply tied to growth. Growth isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being willing to try, fail, and learn. It’s about accepting that mistakes are part of the process and that each one carries a lesson. Often, we hold ourselves back from trying new things out of fear—fear of failure, judgment, or even uncertainty. But as Hannah says, when we’re kind to ourselves and approach new experiences with openness, we create space for transformation.
Courage also invites honesty. It asks us to take a hard look at what’s not working in our lives—be it relationships, habits, or systems—and confront the discomfort of change. It takes bravery to admit when something is no longer serving us. But in doing so, we open the door to better opportunities, experiences, and outcomes.
In sustainability, this mirrors the shift we’re beginning to see in the fashion industry, where brands like Alterist are bravely questioning the status quo. This shift isn’t easy—it takes courage to reimagine deeply ingrained systems and advocate for a better, more sustainable way. And it starts with small steps, just like personal growth does.
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10 Actionable Steps to Use Courage in Your Own Life
Start Small
Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to begin. Take one small step toward your goals today, even if it feels insignificant.Be Honest with Yourself
Reflect on what’s not working in your life. Acknowledge these truths and be willing to face them head-on.Embrace the Unknown
Trust that the path forward will unfold as you take steps, even if you can’t see the whole picture yet.Allow Space for Growth
Let go of what no longer serves you. Create room in your life—physically, emotionally, or mentally—for better opportunities.Practice Self-Compassion
Treat yourself with kindness when you make mistakes. Recognize that setbacks are part of the process, not the end of it.Try New Things
Push yourself to explore new ideas, habits, or hobbies. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge and celebrate even the tiniest milestones. They are the building blocks of your journey.Seek Support
Courage doesn’t mean doing it all alone. Lean on friends, mentors, or communities that uplift you.Stay Curious
Approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?”Commit to the Journey
Recognize that growth is an ongoing process, not a destination. Be patient with yourself as you navigate it.
Courage in Action
Hannah’s perspective teaches us that courage isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about showing up, being honest, and staying open to new possibilities. Whether you’re embarking on a journey of personal growth, working toward sustainability, or simply trying to make better choices in your daily life, courage is what helps you keep moving forward.
Courage is about being honest with yourself, trusting small steps, and embracing growth. Hannah Standen shares how kindness and openness create space for transformation. As Hannah reminds us, courage is a journey, not a destination. With each decision, no matter how small, we open the door to growth, learning, and a brighter, more sustainable future.
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