What’s More Important for Success: Confidence or Courage?

If you're waiting to feel completely confident before making big career or investment moves, you might be waiting forever. Confidence often comes after we've done something new, not before. It's like looking back and thinking, "I did that, and it worked out." But when you're trying something new, you don't have that past experience to lean on.

This is where courage steps in.

The 4 C’s of Success

Dan Sullivan, in his book The 4 C's Formula, explains a simple process for achieving bigger and better goals.

This process starts with courage, not confidence. Let's break down the 4 C’s:

1. Commitment
   Every big change starts with a decision. You need to commit to your goal and have a strong reason driving you forward. Maybe you want financial freedom to spend more time with your family or pursue your passions. Whatever it is, make it your guiding star.

2. Courage
   Trying something new can be scary—whether it's investing in real estate, starting a business, or changing your career. Courage means taking action even when you're scared. It's about feeling the fear and moving forward anyway.

3. Capability
   When you push through fear and take courageous action, you learn. You gain new skills, insights, and experiences. Over time, these small wins build your capability.

4. Confidence
   This is the reward at the end of the process. Confidence comes when you've put in the work, gained experience, and seen results. It's not the starting point—it's the destination.

Understanding Fear

Feeling fear when facing new challenges is normal. Our brains are wired to protect us from the unknown, which can make us hesitate. But waiting for confidence before acting can keep you stuck. By embracing courage, you train your brain to become more comfortable with uncertainty, leading to personal growth and new opportunities.

Actionable Takeaways

If you want to make progress but feel stuck, here's what to do:

1. Focus on Your "Why"
   What's your bigger purpose? Write it down and put it somewhere you'll see every day. Let this drive your commitment.

2. Break It Down
   Take one small, courageous step today. Whether it's researching an investment, booking a call with a coach, or writing down your financial goals—just start. Action, even small action, creates momentum.

3. Celebrate Small Wins
   Each time you try something new, pause to acknowledge your effort, even if it didn't go perfectly. Progress isn't always a straight line, but it's always worth celebrating.

4. Remember the Process
   If you're feeling uncertain or afraid, remind yourself of the 4 C's. Confidence isn't required to begin, but it will show up if you stay committed and keep moving forward.

Final Thoughts

The path to success isn't about being fearless; it's about taking courageous steps despite fear. Confidence will come, but only if you start. So, stop waiting for the "perfect" moment—it doesn't exist. Commit to your goals, summon your courage, and take that first step.

Your future self—the one looking back in the rearview mirror—will thank you.