What does knowing when to act and when not to have to do with courage? Typically, courage is often seen as boldness—the willingness to take risks and confront challenges head-on. But for leadership development expert Tammy Dowley-Blackman, founder of Tammy Dowley-Blackman Group, LLC, courage has a deeper, more nuanced meaning. It’s about the duality of knowing not only what you can do but also whether you should do it. This thoughtful approach to courage shapes decisions from childhood through adulthood, influencing both personal growth and professional leadership.
To listen to Doris’ interview with Tammy, click here.
Courage at 10: Trusting What You Can Do
Tammy Dowley-Blackman, a trailblazer in leadership and organizational development, has built her career around helping others realize their potential. From leading nonprofit organizations to being the founding director of the Proteus Fund Diversity Fellowship, her work has driven systemic change across multiple sectors. Her journey, however, was shaped early in life, beginning with a unique experience at just 10 years old that redefined her understanding of independence and courage.
Growing up in a family deeply committed to education, Tammy frequently traveled between New Jersey and the South, where her parents lived separately to provide her with the best schooling options. At 10, an unexpected situation forced Tammy to travel back to New Jersey alone by bus, with a layover in Washington, D.C. Armed only with her mother’s instructions, she successfully navigated the journey, discovering the first part of her definition of courage: “I can figure things out. I can do this.” This experience cemented her belief in her ability to handle challenges, a conviction that has fueled her personal and professional life ever since.
Courage at 30: Knowing When to Refrain
At 30, Tammy faced a new kind of challenge. She was offered a prestigious job with significant financial and career growth potential. However, despite the obvious benefits, Tammy felt uneasy. Accepting the role would have required sacrificing personal balance and values she held dear.
Despite the pressure to accept, Tammy made the courageous decision to say no, trusting her instincts and choosing long-term fulfillment over short-term gain. This decision became a cornerstone of her leadership philosophy: Not every opportunity, no matter how enticing, is worth taking if it means compromising your values.
Evolving Definition of Courage
Through these defining moments, Tammy’s understanding of courage has evolved into a two-part framework: First, recognize what you’re capable of. Second, make thoughtful, value-driven decisions on whether or not you should act. This perspective continues to guide her leadership, mentorship, and visionary work in the philanthropic sector and beyond.
The dual definition of courage: understanding what you can do and deciding whether you should do it.
Journal Prompts: Exploring the Duality of Courage
- Reflect on a childhood experience that taught you about your capabilities. How has this shaped your understanding of courage?
- Think of a time when you chose to act—or refrain—from taking an opportunity. What factors influenced your decision, and how did it impact your life?
- How do you determine when to act and when not to? What internal and external factors guide your decisions?
- What does courage look like in your life today? Identify a current challenge where you’re navigating between action and restraint.
Tammy Dowley-Blackman’s dual definition of courage— understanding what you can do and deciding whether you should do it—is a powerful guide for leaders and individuals alike. Real courage is not just about bold action; it’s about aligning decisions with values, and as Tammy’s journey shows, the most courageous choices often lead to lasting fulfillment and success.
Align Your Actions with Your Values
For support in making courageous, value-driven decisions, feel free to contact me. Explore more reflections on courage by reading my other posts like Courage is a Mindset, Fueled by Love: Unexpectedly Finding Your Courage and Courage During Uncertainty: A Journey of Resilience and Transformation, Courage as a Catalyst for Personal and Professional Change.
