Confidence can be described as what we believe we can do with the skills we have developed. Under a given circumstance, confidence is what we’ll draw on to use these skills. It’s what we use to reassure ourselves that we can do what we plan to do.

Courage, on the other hand, is what we’ll draw upon to act while facing fear that could prevent us from acting. Acting with courage feels like taking a bold, risky action; it’s a willingness we develop to serve a purpose we perceive to be worthy.

Confidence may be a driver to have courage. However, in most cases, focusing on confidence will lead us to prioritize security, seeking a sense of control over our actions. Which is rarely available when courage might be needed, that is, when uncertainty or fear are present.

Focusing on courage provides a different approach. Whenever we draw on courage, we’ll know that there is risk and fear involved. For courage to unfold, we need some sense of measurement that helps us see if having courage might succeed. It’s where an inward look towards our confidence can give us this sense of measurement for our courage and provide us with the necessary calm to act successfully.

Confidence allows us to act when there is no risk involved.

Courage allows us to act when risk is involved. It benefits from access to our confidence.