Bravery is a curious thing. It’s often romanticised as the fearless pursuit of glory, whether scaling the side of a mountain or launching a business venture. But having spent decades navigating life-threatening adventures and business challenges alike, I’ve realised that bravery isn’t about the absence of fear. It’s about action in spite of it.

In the wilderness, fear is your constant companion. Whether you’re dangling from a rock face or lost in an Arctic whiteout, fear sharpens your senses and keeps you alive. In business, it’s no different. Launching a new project, taking a financial risk, or standing firm in a room of sceptics can be just as daunting as confronting a storm at sea. But the principles that guide us through these challenges are remarkably similar.

Second, adaptability is key. On an expedition, plans often go awry. Weather shifts, equipment fails, and routes become impassable. In business, the market evolves, competitors emerge, and setbacks occur. The brave isn’t those who stubbornly stick to the plan but those who pivot and find a new way forward.

Finally, bravery requires belief, both in yourself and in the vision you’re pursuing. On a solo flight across Africa, there were moments when doubt crept in, whispering that I wouldn’t make it. But conviction carried me through. Similarly, in business, belief in your idea’s fuels perseverance, even when others don’t see the potential yet.

Bravery in adventure and business isn’t about being a hero. It’s about taking calculated risks, embracing uncertainty, and forging ahead. Both arenas test your limits, demand resilience, and offer rewards that extend beyond material success, personal growth, fulfilment, and the thrill of knowing you dared to try.

So, the next time you face a daunting challenge, whether in a boardroom or on a windswept peak, remember bravery is less about conquering fear and more about the courage to act despite it.

Neil Laughton

Entrepreneur, Adventurer & Penny Farthing rider