Build your own council of courageous mentors

You’re staring at the blinking cursor on your laptop, heart pounding so loud it drowns out the café’s jazz playlist. Remember how Maya Angelou rose again, time after time? You grab a napkin and scribble her words: “I shall not be moved.” My heart still flutters recalling the first time I leaned into that line—ten years ago, reading her poems in a musty college classroom. The musty air, the dry chalk dust, my stomach in knots.

Today, whenever doubt stalks me—publishing a new essay or pitching a workshop—I mentally assemble my personal council. I see Maya at my left, J. K. Rowling at my right, a half-smile on both their faces. I hear them urging me to be brave, to push through the fear that says “Who are you to speak?” The café’s coffee steams in a paper cup as I lean forward, imagining their steady gazes.

That day in class, I didn’t know why Angelou’s voice felt like armor. Now I understand: our fears shrink when we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with giants. Science calls it social modeling—when we witness someone else’s courage, our brain mirrors the pattern.

When you summon your council, you hack your own neural pathways, wiring bravery into your brain. Next time your insecurities roar, call their names. Let their courage become yours.

First, list five people whose bravery lights you up. Next, pin their quotes where you’ll see them daily. Then in a shaky moment, close your eyes and see their faces behind you, rooting you on. That mental fetch will remind you you’re not alone in the wilderness—give it a try when self-doubt strikes.