Confidence Is The Reward, Not the Fuel

MTYL Memo #2—for those creating more freedom, purpose & possibility.

If you’re waiting around for confidence, it might time to go “get” some. Because here’s the thing: Confidence isn’t the motivator. It’s the reward.

It’s what you receive when you venture or take big and small actions—and find you are up to the challenge.

See that mountain peak? I climbed to the top of it.

That master’s program that felt like such a slog? Finished it.

The cold calls to promote my new business? Yep, made them—multiple times.

That long, brave solo trip? I did it.

Side note: “I did it” has become one of my favorite phrases. It was on repeat as I traipsed through the JFK Airport after an incredible yet intimidating seven-week mostly-solo trip abroad. I couldn’t believe I’d pulled it off, navigated all the unknowns, didn’t get kidnapped or accidentally take a train to Russia, that sort of thing…

What gets you out the door to take actions, though? If confidence is not the fuel, what is? Wanting something different.

Wanting a memorable life more than a comfortable one. Wanting to see and do interesting things, to be around people, to be healthier. To show up for your duty, to help others, to be seen, to make the money you want and need to make.

Bravely wanting gets you out the door. Confidence is what you return home with, sometimes after repeated efforts.

And when confidence hasn’t come yet, or you’re between “doses of confidence,” you get to take really good care of yourself—before, during, and after you do the brave thing.

It’s wild how much venturing you can do and action you can take when you a) don’t expect confidence to drive the bus and b) try hard to have your own back—as is.

Question: What are you doing these days that’s building your confidence?

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Hey there! I send MTYL (More to Your Life) Memos every weekday to help all us big dreamers create more freedom, purpose & possibility. Let’s do this.