Saying Yes to New Things Starts with One Brave Step

This past weekend, I traveled with my son to visit Louisiana State University, and I left with more than just information about dorms and majors—I walked away with some really important reminders that apply to all of us, especially our girls.

The biggest message I heard again and again:

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you're stepping into something new—whether that’s middle school, high school, college, a new friendship group, or even joining a new club or team. Fear can creep in and convince us it’s safer to hang back. But more often than not, the fear is bigger than the reality.

Transitions are hard. They're supposed to be.
But they also create the space for growth, new relationships, and confidence.

At LSU, students shared that one of the best decisions they made was saying yes to new opportunities—even when they were nervous. But saying yes also meant learning how to speak up, introduce themselves, and start conversations.

Just last week, I worked with one of my girls on exactly this. She told me, “I never know what to say.” So, we practiced a super simple tool:

 Share a thought. Ask an open-ended question.

Here’s what that can sound like in real life:

•  “This class feels like it’s going to be hard. What do you think?” 
• “That assembly was actually kind of fun. What part did you like the most?”  
•  “I love your shoes—they’re so unique. Where did you get them?”
• “I’m really tired today. Did you do anything over the weekend?”

It’s not about having the perfect line.
It’s about opening a door to real conversation—and being willing to step through it.

You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to make a connection. You just have to be brave enough to go first.

Encourage your daughter to:

1. Look for supporters—people who are kind, open, and encouraging.
2. Say yes to new opportunities, even when she’s unsure.
3. Practice curiosity instead of pressure in conversations.
4. Remember that even small steps count.

Being brave doesn’t mean not being scared.It means choosing to show up anyway.  One step. One thought.  One question.That’s how friendships begin.

P.S. If your daughter needs more tools to help her build confidence, navigate transitions, and connect with others, I have several programs and resources designed to support both of you:

 The Brave Girl Tribe – A weekly online group for 5th–8th grade girls to build confidence, friendships, and problem-solving skills. We are meeting tonight at 7:00 pm EST, click here if you would like to be a guest.

 The High School Support Group – A bi-weekly space for high school girls to talk about friendships, stress, goals, and relationships with guidance and support. We are meeting today at 1:00 pm EST, click here if you would like to be a guest.

 Survive and Thrive in Middle School Course – A self-paced course to help rising middle schoolers and their parents feel prepared, confident, and ready for the transition.

  Beyond the Drama Course – A powerful course to help parents support their daughters through friend group dynamics, set healthy boundaries, and handle drama with confidence.

If you would like to schedule a complimentary chat to discuss your daughter and her needs please visit my Calendar.

Warmly,

Laura Hayes
Founder of The Brave Girl Project
Life Coach for Tween & Teen Girls
www.TheBraveGirlProject.com
Laura@TheBraveGirlProject.com
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