6)         “Audentes Fortuna Iuvat” (Latin: “Fortune Favors the Bold”)

Another translation of this expression is “Fortune Favors the Brave”. Boldness, bravery and courage are the fruitage of accountability. They do not precede accountability, they are a result of accountability. Why do I say this?

There is another expression that I love: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the determination that something else is more important than fear”. Several people are accredited with that quote, but whomever said that, the message stays the same. Courage is the result of a decision. Courage, boldness, bravery, do not happen spontaneously, they are a by-product of a conscious decision that something else is more important than giving in to fear or the possible injury that might be experienced by some action. Making this decision requires that we each make an honest and thorough accounting of ourselves and identify our “one thing” (see “Prince or Pauper – Think like the rich” … Chapter 6). Having identified that “one thing”, all other actions and decisions are simply a reflection of our commitment to ourselves that our “one thing” is more important than all other things … including fear. Having identified our “one thing”, we write a check to ourselves for that “one thing” and every action is a movement towards cashing that check. Our “one thing” holds us accountable. Our “one thing” demands bold moves, courage and decisive action. If our “one thing” is financial independence, freedom, world travel, celebrity, or whatever else is most important to you, the risk of making bold moves is justified by the prospect of success. Identifying that “one thing” and making the conscious decision to pursue it despite any risk also results in supreme self-confidence.

Example:         Alexander the Great was sent out by his father to wage a battle at the age of 19. The opposing forces outnumbered the Macedonian troops by a margin of 3 to 1. Alexander had long before made the decision that his destiny demanded bold and courageous action. As Alexander proceeded to evolve a battle plan, a long-time advisor to his father and accomplished General named Parmenio interrupted his work. Parmenio reviewed the odds with the young and inexperienced Alexander and said “I would not take this risk if I were Alexander”. Alexander replied, “nor would I, were I Parmenio”, in effect saying “you might fail, but you are not me”. Alexander’s single-minded determination demanded bold action to reach his goal. Arrogance? Perhaps, but the results speak for themselves. Alexander became one of the greatest world rulers in history.

If it is your determination to become a Prince or Princess, remember … fortune favors the bold.