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Etymology

The word “courage” has its origins in the Latin term “cor,” meaning “heart,” and the verb “agere,” which means “to act” or “to do.” The Latin term “coragium” or “coraticum” was used to describe the quality of heart or spirit, particularly in the face of challenging or difficult situations.
Here’s how the word evolved:

• Latin: The Latin word “cor” or “cordis” referred to the heart, both anatomically and metaphorically as the seat of one’s emotions and innermost feelings.
• Old French: In Old French, the word “corage” or “curage” developed. This term preserved the original sense of “heart” but also began to take on the additional connotation of inner strength, spirit, and bravery.
• Middle English: In Middle English, the word “corage” continued to evolve, and it acquired the modern sense of “courage,” meaning the ability to confront fear or pain, or to persevere in the face of difficulties.

So, “courage” in English retains its connection to the heart, but it has come to represent the inner strength that resides within a person, allowing them to face challenges and adversity with a conscious determination.

Don Quijote and the windmills?

Throughout my years of navigating the corporate realm, much like Don Quijote and his legendary battles with the ferocious windmills, I’ve come to realize that office politics is a ubiquitous force that affects nearly every workplace.
It’s a sensitive subject, akin to the challenging giants our chivalrous knight faced, which many find uncomfortable to confront. However, just as Don Quijote valiantly charged at the perceived giants, addressing office politics head-on is essential for maintaining a healthy work environment.

What is Office Politics?

Office politics can be thought of as the complex interplay of power, influence, and maneuvering within an organization. It often involves individuals or groups seeking to gain an advantage, further their own agendas, or protect their interests, even at the expense of others. It’s not inherently negative, but when these dynamics become manipulative, exclusionary, or detrimental to the overall work environment, it becomes a problem.
Several factors contribute to the existence of office politics. These can include:

• competition for limited resources,
• differences in personal and professional goals,
• a lack of open and transparent communication.

In some cases, office politics can be exacerbated by a toxic corporate culture or leadership that tolerates or even encourages these behaviors.

Here is the Courage

Courage is an indispensable quality in the professional world because it enables us to tackle difficulties, embrace risks, and move forward with confidence. It originates from our values and convictions, guiding our actions from within.
Courageous leaders are those who venture to lead by example, making challenging decisions and acting decisively, even when the outcome remains uncertain. They are the individuals willing to take risks, explore new avenues, innovate, and accept the prospect of occasional setbacks.

Even in the face of a toxic work environment and the challenges of office politics, I firmly believe that courage is an internal quality that revolves around self-awareness and our choices in responding to adversity. This internal compass helps us harmonize our actions with our values, ensuring that we stay authentic to ourselves and aligned with the broader good.

Yes, but… Do you feel the fear?

Courageous leadership often comes at a price.
Fear is a formidable adversary for leaders, involving the conquest of consequences, failure, and retribution. When we embrace our inner strength and act courageously, we unleash a power that transcends personal reservations and paves the way for a brighter future. Now, you might be wondering,

Is all this talk of courage really worth it in the professional world?

The answer is a resounding yes. Courage is a quality that not only benefits individuals but also has a profound impact on the organizations they lead. It’s the driving force that propels us through challenges, enabling us to take calculated risks and move forward with unwavering confidence.

In the corporate landscape, courage often means the difference between stagnation and progress.

It’s the bedrock of effective leadership and a catalyst for positive change. Courageous leaders inspire their teams to reach new heights, foster innovation, and create workplaces where individuals can thrive. When leaders embrace courage, they set a precedent for others to follow, encouraging a culture of accountability, responsibility, and moral integrity.

You are not alone

In the journey to navigate office politics and foster a more productive and harmonious work environment, leaders may find that professional guidance is invaluable.

In the same way Don Quijote sought wisdom from his faithful squire, Sancho Panza, who offered him valuable insights and support, leaders can also gain from the guidance of experienced mentors and coaches.

Coaching, in particular, offers a tailored and results-driven approach to addressing office politics and developing leadership skills. Coaches provide a safe space for leaders to discuss challenges, explore effective strategies, and receive constructive feedback. They help leaders enhance their emotional intelligence, conflict resolution abilities, and decision-making skills.

Through coaching, leaders can gain valuable tools and techniques to manage office politics more effectively. They can also strengthen their ability to create a workplace culture that values transparency, open communication, and ethical behavior. Seeking professional guidance is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step toward becoming a more effective and courageous leader.

What’s next?

If you’re ready to take your leadership to the next level, Leadership Boot offers a free discovery call to learn more about how coaching can help you get there!