The Power of Bravery and Curiosity - Lessons from Socrates for Founders and Leaders
How often have you been told: “You’re so lucky” when you make a bold change or decision?
You’re so lucky to be doing what you love.
You're so lucky to be your own boss.
You’re so lucky to have grown so fast.
You’re so lucky to have secured funding.
It's a pattern I've noticed throughout my life from friends who feel stuck in jobs they don't love, or who dream about turning their side hustle into a business. From when I went freelance after my first baby was born 21 years ago, to when I launched a food events business that got regular national media coverage and when I fulfilled a lifelong dream to live to Bristol and moved on last year from one side of the country to the other.
But is it really luck? Or is it something else—bravery, curiosity, tenacity and a willingness to embrace change?
Not one of these transitions in my personal or professional life has been handed to me on a plate. They've not been easy. But something drove me forward . . .
Socrates said:
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”
Every time I’ve faced a crossroads—whether it was moving, starting a business, retraining as a coach - I could have focused on the obstacles and the reasons not to do it. Instead, I focused on what I was creating: a new chapter, new friendships, new experiences, and new opportunities.
What is it that keeps some people moving forward, even in uncertainty?
Luck vs. Leadership
Successful leaders and founders don’t wait for luck to guide them—they take action. They stay curious, ask better questions, and step into uncertainty. Yet, when they make bold decisions, others often see it as luck rather than intentional effort.
Socrates said:
“Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.”
Curiosity is a leadership superpower. The best leaders don’t just accept things as they are; they challenge assumptions, explore new possibilities, and ask: What if? instead of What if it goes wrong?
The Courage to Do Something New
For leaders, especially in startups and scale-ups, this is critical. Growth requires constant adaptation. The best leaders focus on what they can create, not on what's behind them or what's holding them back.
How often do we resist change because we focus on the risks, rather than the opportunities? True leadership isn’t about avoiding fear—it’s about moving forward despite it.
The Courage to Fail
Of course, not everything goes to plan. Sometimes we make the wrong decision, fail at something, or fall flat on our faces. But that’s not failure—staying stuck is. Socrates reminds us:
“Falling down is not a failure. Failure comes when you stay where you’ve fallen.”
True resilience in leadership (and in life) is about getting back up, learning from the experience, and continuing forward. The most successful founders, leaders, and entrepreneurs don’t get everything right; they just refuse to let setbacks define them.
Socrates' wisdom is valuable for leaders:
Know Thyself: Great leadership starts with self-awareness. Examine your mindset, strengths, and blind spots.
Avoid Busyness: Socrates warned: “Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” Founders wear multiple hats, but being constantly busy doesn’t mean being effective.
Lead by Example: “True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing.” Admitting you don’t have all the answers fosters a culture of learning and innovation.
Think for Yourself: “To find yourself, think for yourself.” Challenge industry norms, avoid negative self-talk, and focus on what’s possible.
Set Goals with Reflection: Define a clear vision, take bold steps, and regularly reflect on progress.
Making Your Own Luck as a Leader
So if you feel stuck in a job you don't love, or stuck as a leader in a business facing significant challenges, be curious and brave. Ask yourself:
What if I tried?
What if this changes everything?
Socrates believed that questioning leads to growth and opportunity. Luck isn’t random—it’s about staying curious, asking better questions, and putting yourself in situations where opportunities can arise.
If Socrates was right when he said, “The unexamined life is not worth living,” then the most courageous thing we can do is to keep questioning, keep evolving, and keep stepping into the unknown.
That’s where growth happens. That’s where the so-called 'luck' happens
If you're feeling stuck or want support to be brave and make bold decisions, I’m here to help you discover your courage and curiosity.
Get in touch to chat about how Coaching can support you with your next bold move.
Call Polly 07966 475195 / email polly@pollyrobinson.co.uk
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