
βThe courageous endure death in war most nobly, facing the greatest terror.ββ
β Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book III, Chapter 6
(Translated by W.D. Ross)
Big Idea
Modern courage is like a firefighter’s gear π:
- Reckless = Charge into flames without training β Harm yourself & others.
- Timid = Freeze outside burning building β Lives lost.
- True Valor = Strategically rescue with equipment β Save families & survive.
βReal-Life Scenarios
π₯ ER Night Shift
β Noble: Treat violent patient despite risk β Contract COVID but save life.
β Fearful: Avoid contagious cases β Patient dies, license revoked.
π‘ Domestic Crisis
β Valor: Intervene in neighbor’s abuse β Broken nose but stop tragedy.
β Passive: “Not my business” call β Child protective services case.
πΌ Corporate Whistleblowing
β Courage: Expose accounting fraud β Career over but prevent bankruptcy.
β Silent: Hide evidence β Company collapses, jail time.
βWhat You Can Do
- βThe “Helmet Test”
Before acting brave, ask:- “Am I wearing metaphorical βhelmet (preparation) and βoxygen tank (support)?”
- βCourage Calculator
Weigh risks using this formula:
β**(Good Outcome x 2) – (Bad Outcome x 1)**
β Score >50 β Act
β Score <30 β Re-strategize - βEveryday Valor Journal
Track weekly micro-braveries:
Week 1: Reported leaking gas line β
Week 3: Drove coworker to detox center β