Face the Dragon – The Virtue of Courage
From ancient stories like Beowulf to modern journeys of personal growth, the image of a dragon guarding treasure has symbolized the fears and challenges we must face to achieve something truly valuable.
When my son Dominic was young, he confronted one of his dragons. While riding a chairlift for the first time, he turned to me and said, “Dad, I’m scared, but I’m facing my fears.” He didn’t just make it down the mountain—he conquered his inner dragon, and won his treasure.
The Science Behind Facing Your Fears
Modern research supports this age-old wisdom. Exposure therapy, a core component of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), demonstrates that directly facing fears—step by step—can transform anxiety into empowerment. Whether it’s climbing a mountain, forgiving someone, or learning a new skill, confronting our dragons helps us grow stronger.
Studies like the use of Virtual Reality-Based CBT for treating paranoia show that technology and modern methods can help us safely and effectively take on these challenges. (Learn more about the study here)
2025: A year to Face the Dragon
This year, I encourage you to face your dragons and discover the treasure that awaits. It doesn’t have to be monumental—it just has to move you forward. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Health: Take on weight loss of fitness goals
- Personal Growth: Learn a new instrument, try cooking a challenging dish, or take up public speaking
- Relationships: Forgive someone or reach out to mend a broken relationship
- Adventure: Visit a place you’ve never been or try to something outside your comfort zone
- Kindness: Compliment a stranger or spread positivity
Treasure Awaits You
Facing your dragon might seem daunting, but every step you take toward it reveals a hidden strength within you. And the treasure? It’s not just what you gain but who you become in the process.
If you need help starting your journey, know that you don’t have to face your dragon alone. Counseling with a skilled cognitive-behavioral therapist can provide valuable support. Solidarity HealthShare offers access to exceptional counselors, ensuring that you have the resources you need to grow, heal, and thrive.
So what’s your dragon this year? And what treasure is waiting for you?

