Dear BE KNOW DO Community,
Confidence isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you build. Many people believe they need to feel confident before taking action, but the truth is, confidence comes from doing. The more you take action, the more proof you create that you are capable. Today, let’s explore how to stop overthinking and start moving forward using the BE KNOW DO framework
BE – See Yourself as Someone Who Takes Action
"The way to develop self-confidence is to do the thing you fear and get a record of successful experiences behind you." – William Jennings Bryan
Confidence doesn’t start with certainty; it starts with action. Instead of waiting to “feel ready,” shift your mindset:
Be willing to act without knowing every step. You’ll figure things out along the way.
Be open to mistakes. Every misstep is part of the learning process.
Be committed to showing up, even when you don’t feel 100%.
Example: If you’ve been delaying a project because you don’t have all the answers, start anyway. The path becomes clearer as you go.
KNOW – Overthinking Kills Confidence
"You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step." – Martin Luther King Jr.
Overthinking magnifies fears, making even small steps feel overwhelming. The more you think about doing something, the harder it becomes to start. Here’s what to remember:
Know that action reduces fear. The more you do something, the easier it gets.
Know that confidence comes from proof. Every small success builds trust in yourself.
Know that hesitation feeds self-doubt. The longer you wait, the scarier it feels.
Insight: Confidence isn’t built by analyzing—it’s built by experiencing.
DO – Take Small Actions Now
"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." – Arthur Ashe
The best way to build confidence? Start small and take action today. Here’s how:
Identify the smallest possible step. Instead of focusing on the entire goal, focus on what you can do right now.
Use the “do it now” rule. When you catch yourself overthinking, take immediate action—even if it’s tiny.
Let momentum work for you. Small wins lead to bigger ones.
Example: If you want to speak up more, start by sharing one thought in a meeting. If you want to get in shape, commit to just five minutes of exercise. Small actions lead to big changes.
Learn More with Habit Sequencing
If you want to build confidence through small, consistent actions, check out my book, Habit Sequencing. It’s designed to help you create habits that reinforce your confidence and keep you moving forward.
Get your copy here and start taking action with purpose.
Let’s Connect
What’s one small action you can take today to build confidence? Reply to this email—I’d love to hear how you’re stepping forward.
Until next time,
Pierre K. Poteau
Author of Habit Sequencing and 86,400 Seconds a Day
P.S. If you found this newsletter helpful, share it with a friend who could use a confidence boost. Let’s take action together!