Confidence vs Courage: You’re Focused on the Wrong One
[Mic Drop]: Confidence is not the foundation of leadership, but its outcome. Neuroscience and behavioral research show it grows incrementally as you repeatedly act with courage, proving to yourself and others that you can navigate fear and uncertainty.
We often celebrate leaders who radiate confidence. Those who stride into the room, speak without hesitation, and project certainty. However, when you examine closely leaders who truly transform organizations and inspire people for the long term, a distinct quality emerges: courage.
The Myth of Confidence
Confidence is widely seen as a prerequisite for effective leadership. Yet most great leaders don't start from a place of unwavering self-belief. They act precisely because they doubt themselves and move forward anyway.
While many wait until they feel “ready,” hesitation often holds us back more than any external obstacle. Confidence isn't something you think your way into; it emerges as a byproduct of action. It is earned through taking risks, facing discomfort, and proving step by shaky step that you can handle more than you imagined.
Courage: The True Differentiator
Courage is not about being fearless. It's about how you act in the face of fear and uncertainty. The most impactful leaders demonstrate vulnerability, admit when they don't have the answers, and prioritize principles over popularity. They lead to do what is right, even when it costs them.
Courage is accessible to everyone. It is a skill that can be strengthened, a muscle built through repeated acts of boldness, large and small. When viewed this way, you see it's available to all of us, regardless of personality, situation, or past.
Acting Yourself Into Courage
The biggest misconception is that you must “feel confident” before you act. In reality, the only way to build real confidence is through courageous action. Micro-acts of courage, small and deliberate steps beyond your comfort zone, compound over time. Whether it's speaking up in a meeting, asking for tough feedback, or taking on a role that scares you, each act strengthens your courage muscle.
Through these experiences, you build proof that you can handle discomfort and uncertainty. Confidence then becomes the natural echo of these courageous steps, not their prerequisite.
Practical Experiments to Build Courage
To cultivate more courage, don't wait for inspiration to strike. Start experimenting:
Daily discomfort challenge: Do one thing each day that feels uncomfortable. Speak up, say no, ask the hard question.
Courage journal: Write down each act of courage, how it felt, and what you learned. This builds self-trust and momentum.
Values-first decisions: Make at least one decision this week that prioritizes your values over comfort or popularity.
Expand your arena: Practice courage outside of work. Try a new hobby, volunteer, or step into a new environment.
Invite feedback publicly: Create opportunities to solicit honest feedback openly from your team and model learning in real-time.
Courage as the Bedrock of Your Leadership
As Brené Brown wrote, “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” The same is true for leadership.
Stop waiting to feel “ready.” Act despite the fear, show up fully, and let courage create the confidence you've been seeking all along.
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