Confidence and small steps
One thing I’ve been reflecting on is confidence, especially how it’s not always something that just appears, but something that builds over time.
Sometimes I feel unsure of myself or hesitate to take action because I don’t feel ready yet. But I’ve started to realize that waiting to feel fully confident might actually hold me back more. Taking small steps, even when I don’t feel 100% ready, has helped me a bit more than staying stuck.
It also made me think about how being kind to myself plays a role in confidence. When I’m less critical and more patient, things feel a bit easier and more possible.
I’m still figuring this out, but I’d love to hear different perspectives. So here are my questions:
What does confidence mean to you?
and
Do you think confidence comes before action, or after taking action?
@CozyPup1 Do you think confidence comes before action, or after taking action?
@YourCaringConfidant
@CozyPup1
@chialto03
@CozyPup1
Confidence grows from action, not before it. You can second-guess a decision a hundred times, but it’s only once you start that things begin to shift.
@CozyPup1
I think confidence and action influence each other. Sometimes taking small actions first can help build confidence over time, while feeling more confident can also make it easier to take action. Even if someone feels uncertain at first, trying new things and gaining experience can gradually change how they think about themselves and their abilities.
I really related to your reflection. I agree that confidence is something that grows gradually through experience and small actions rather than appearing instantly. Your point about waiting to feel completely ready can sometimes hold us back was especially meaningful.
I also think self-kindness plays a huge role in building confidence. Being patient with ourselves makes it easier to take risks, learn from mistakes, and keep moving forward. Personally, I believe confidence often comes after taking action because each small step helps build trust in our own abilities over time.
@CozyPup1 confidence does come after taking the action
we do build that confidence up, with time and efforts
and by my personal experience confidence is standing for yourself; standing on stage presenting yourself; being comfortable in front of the person you feel is not in your league, either the one making you feel uncomfortable, or make you feel insecure
@CozyPup1
I really relate to what you’ve shared.
For me, confidence starts with belief in oneself—even if it’s small at the beginning. It’s that quiet trust that “I can try, even if I’m not perfect yet.”
But I also feel confidence doesn’t stay without action. Taking action is what actually builds and strengthens it. When we do things despite doubt, we collect experiences, and those experiences slowly turn into confidence.
So I’d say belief starts confidence, but action boosts and proves it over time.
@CozyPup1
Confidence to me is after taking a action and getting results. It keeps me motivated to do more for myself and others around me.