The Confidence Code: Simple secrets worth knowing

Confidence is what turns intentions into actions. It means having enough self-belief to try, to take a chance. And the more action you commit to, the closer you get to your end goal.

Anger, intelligence, and creativity can all play a factor in our decision making. But it’s confidence that gets the ball rolling. It processes our self-judgments and gives us the green light to act.

Thinking too much saps confidence. When we get caught up in negative thoughts, we stop living in the moment and our instincts become dulled. A sense of spontaneity is a vital part of confidence. 

There’s a sharp contrast between being perceived as talented and just being seen as capable. The reality is that we typically equate success with confidence levels, not competence levels.

As catchy as it sounds, “fake it ’til you make it” is pop-psychology nonsense. Confidence isn’t about acting; it’s about having a genuine sense of who you are and what you’re capable of.

Pretend swagger can backfire by actually raising anxiety and making you feel like an imposter. Treating it as a performance also broadcasts mixed signals that others may pick up on.

Instead of using false confidence as a mask or a crutch, take one small step of courage as the real you. The next step will be so much easier, and you’ll start to build natural momentum.

If you still feel hesitant, ask yourself: “Would failure really be worse than not doing anything at all? How many times might I have succeeded in the past if I’d just given it a shot?”

Confidence is contagious and comes from repeated effort. It builds enough forward momentum to take you outside of your comfort zone: embracing what’s happening with an open mind.

Bottom line: confidence is action liberated from doubt. It’s what separates those who dream from those who do. So think less, act more, and be genuine. You have to be in it to win it.