The Cowardly Lion in the Wizard of Oz is known for his lack of courage, despite his imposing appearance as a lion. In the story, he joins Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man, hoping to receive the gift of courage from the Wizard. He believes that it will help him overcome his fears and become a true king of the beasts. Throughout the journey, the Cowardly Lion displays moments of bravery and loyalty, even though he frequently doubts his own courage.
As the story progresses, the companions encounter various challenges and obstacles, and the Cowardly Lion’s journey involves facing his fears and doubts head-on. Ultimately, when they reach the Emerald City and meet the Wizard, they discover that the qualities they sought were already present within themselves. The Wizard provides symbols of these qualities, which serve as a reminder of their inner strengths.
Importantly, the character of the Cowardly Lion represents the idea that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to face one’s fears in spite of them. His transformation highlights themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the realisation that inner strength is often more powerful than external appearances.
Courage in the Workplace
In the workplace, courage is a quality that often separates the ordinary from the extraordinary. It can be the driving force that helps people have those difficult conversations, come through conflict situations and drive cultural change. So, at work, courage is not only a virtue but also a powerful tool. But like any tool, courage must be used wisely. Whilst there are times when displaying courage is essential, there may be instances where ‘blind courage’ would not be the best idea and caution is needed.
Let’s look at where courage counts in the workplace:
Embracing Innovation
Innovation is crucial for survival. Those who dare to challenge the status quo and bring fresh ideas often lead the way. It takes courage to step out of your comfort zone and propose unconventional solutions, but that’s what can lead to big breakthroughs.
Speaking Up
Courageous employees aren’t afraid to voice their opinions, even when they go against the majority. Constructive challenge can lead to more well-rounded discussions and ultimately better decisions. When an employee points out potential flaws in a project or strategy, they demonstrate courage that benefits the entire team. Courage can also mean standing up for colleagues in the face of challenges or injustices. It could involve advocating for equal treatment, fairness, or inclusivity.
Taking Calculated Risks
Every successful venture involves an element of risk. People with the courage to take well-considered risks often end up achieving remarkable outcomes. This could lead to increased responsibilities, career growth, or financial gains.
Championing Change
Change can be daunting but it’s essential for growth. People who show courage when faced with changes in processes, technology, or culture, can be valuable agents of change.
Addressing Conflicts
Courageous individuals are willing to address conflicts or issues in the workplace. They do so constructively, aiming to resolve conflicts rather than allowing them to fester and harm team dynamics.
Admitting Mistakes
Showing vulnerability by admitting our mistakes takes courage. Such openness helps to build a culture of learning and growth within the team.
Pushing Boundaries
Stepping out of our comfort zone and taking on tasks or responsibilities that might be beyond our usual area of expertise also demonstrates courage. It shows a willingness to learn and expand skill sets.
Standing Against Injustice
Taking a stand against unethical behaviour or practices, especially if it involves confronting those in authority, can take a huge amount of courage. Organisational, cultural, and social change would simply not be possible without people being courageous enough to stand up to injustices.
Be Brave
Like the Cowardly Lion, finding your own courage at work can sometimes be a winding path. Sometimes, we’ll feel brave, and sometimes, we’ll be full of doubt and uncertainty. But as the Wizard of Oz revealed, all we really have to do to act with courage is to remember that courage is already within us.
Building Courage in Your Workplace
If you’re looking to build a more courageous workplace culture where open and honest conversations flourish, Savvy Conversations can help. Our approach integrates the key elements of culture, communication, and conflict resolution to create Savvy Spaces where courage thrives.
My book, Savvy Conversations: A practical framework for effective workplace relationships, provides valuable insights and practical strategies for helping you and your team communicate with confidence and courage.
For those seeking more personalised guidance, I offer executive coaching and team workshops designed to help unlock your potential and create a culture of courage and open communication in your organisation.
Don’t let fear hold you or your team back. Reach out to learn how Savvy Conversations can help you build a more courageous, communicative, and successful workplace.
Want to know more?
Sarah Harvey is Founding Director of Savvy Conversations Ltd and author of the highly acclaimed book Savvy Conversations: A practical framework for effective workplace relationships.
Website: https://savvyconversations.co.uk
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/savvysarah
Instagram: savvysarah
