Inspired by Sam Cowen: The brave things we forget to celebrate in ourselves

I came across a beautifully honest post by Sam Cowen today. I used to love listening to her on radio, with that mix of wit, warmth and just-sharp-enough sarcasm, and I had the chance to meet her briefly at one of the Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summits a few years ago.

Back then, she was stepping away from radio and into a new chapter as a life coach. Today, on her Facebook Live, she shared why she’s been quieter on social media lately and reflected on her year. She spoke about the things she did that made her feel brave, even the small acts she didn’t recognise as bravery at the time.

You can watch her post here:

Her message really hit home for me. It reminded me how often we rush through life without pausing to acknowledge the tough things we’ve survived, the risks we’ve taken, or the courage it took to simply keep going.

So, inspired by Sam, I decided to write down my own list of brave acts from this year. And maybe it will nudge you to think about yours too.

My Brave Acts This Year

• I ran my first Ultra Marathon
The Cape Town Two Oceans, all 56 kilometres of it. It was brutal in moments, but I had incredible support and I crossed that finish line. That was brave.

• I continued my pursuit of love
Dating apps, singles events, and meeting… let’s just say… a colourful collection of unsuitable suitors. Honestly, I could write a short book about these experiences alone. But putting yourself out there again and again takes courage in its own right.

• I survived a really difficult mental health patch
It’s probably fair to call it a mini breakdown. It was dark, overwhelming and humbling. But…

• I reached out for help
From professionals, family and friends, and I got through it. That, without question, was brave.

• I started writing short stories here on SA People
I’m not a trained writer and sharing my ideas felt vulnerable. But I took a chance, spoke up to my company leaders, and now I get to help tell South African stories that I hope uplift, inspire and remind us of the good in this country.

• I entered the Comrades Marathon 2026
Now listen… I’m still not sure if this is brave or just slightly unhinged. Probably both. Let’s be honest.

The “Everyday Bravery” of living in South Africa

And honestly, just living in South Africa sometimes deserves its own bravery medal.

From dodging potholes big enough to swallow a Hyundai i10 to navigating a major intersection where the robots are out again and a street dweller steps forward as an unofficial pointsman. We all politely pretend he’s a fully trained traffic marshal and follow his hand signals with absolute obedience, because sometimes that’s the safest option.

Some days, getting home in one piece feels like an extreme sport.

So if you made it through an average Tuesday in South Africa, trust me, you’ve already shown courage.

Your Turn

So that’s my list, the things that made me feel brave even if I didn’t see it at the time.

Now I’d love to ask you:
When you look back on this year, what did you do that was brave?
What challenge did you overcome? What project did you tackle? Which moment deserves a little more credit?

If you’d like to share your story with me – whether it’s a single sentence or a whole chapter – I’d genuinely love to hear it. You can email me at Nicky@blueskypublications.com.

Take a minute. Think about it.

And maybe, just like Sam reminded me, give yourself some compassion for the things you carried, survived, and conquered this year.