True fortitude I take to be the quiet possession of a man’s self, and an undisturbed doing his duty, whatever evil besets or danger lies in his way.

Courage does not look like force. It shows up as staying in possession of yourself while something frightening is going on, and continuing to do the ordinary thing you were going to do anyway. Most of the bravery a life requires is unphotographed: keeping your word, holding a steady tone, finishing the task while the situation is unresolved. The quiet version is harder than the dramatic one and much more useful.

In the situation you are currently anxious about, pick the next plain duty and do it on time. Let steadiness be the response rather than waiting to feel bold.