As harsh as it may sound, there is indeed no substitute for confidence and courage. There may be variations of confidence and courage. For example, the traits may be executed quietly, softly, charismatically, methodically and so on. The common denominator in the styles is confidence and courage.

The absence of confidence and courage in corporate leadership and management does more harm than good to individuals and the organization at large. Conversely, their presence promotes clarity, authenticity, candor and quality of delivery.

I must confess that my focus on this subject in the past has been largely inclined to encouraging acquisition of the traits. An encounter with someone made me see things from an additional perspective. She spoke about how some actors who lack confidence attempt to atone for it with other channels of energy and in most cases have failed miserably. Here are my awakening points from that discussion:

1.  Confidence and courage can be taught but it is up to the student to internalize and exhibit it. That is an effort that can only be initiated and executed by the individual. YOU are the only person that can move from learning to being confident and courageous. Knowing that confidence and courage exist is one thing and responding to the call to action is another.

2. Those that choose that they will not pursue confidence and courage but still desire their positive and beneficial results, tend to pursue what they term “easier” ways out. The seemingly easier ways may be unethical and even motivated by malice.

3. Most triangulators lack confidence and courage, hence their heavy dependence on uninspiring methods of achieving their objectives. They are most inclined to adopt methods associated with cowardice. The more a triangulator becomes personally aware of their cowardice, the higher the chance that they might consider change for the better.

4. Leadership should actively invite value to the table by deliberately creating an environment for free exhibition of confidence and courage. Opportunity is something leadership can give and therefore, leaders are strategically placed to give it to as many people as possible.

5. Sometimes, courage is met with difficulty, hence the adage, “courage under fire”! Having the attribute of courage doesn’t mean that it will always be easy. There may be factors such as the need to respect authority, the need to be empathetic and be objective, adversity that will confront confidence and courage. Strive to conquer that!

6. Sometimes, one’s confidence may earn the name “smartie pants” and may unintentionally invite scorn. Embracing confidence also entails packaging it in an emotionally and ethically intelligent manner for best results!

 The opposites of confidence and courage are cowardice timidity and even laziness. Which ones are we?