Can You Succeed Without Confidence?

"How can you not be sure about your own writing?"

Some people feel ashamed or troubled by the lack of 100% confidence in their writing. I used to feel that way too. But these days, I know better than anyone how important it is to move forward even without absolute certainty, so I don't stress over a lack of conviction.

As humans, we can't easily predict the future. In a world where a mistress becomes Queen Camilla, who knows what the future holds? Nevertheless, we must keep moving forward.

Writing isn't about 100% certainty, it's about starting. You must write regardless of whether it's guaranteed to succeed or fail. Even if other writers predict failure, a truly popular piece will find its audience. We should do our best and leave the outcome, which is a matter of luck, to fate. (Jininsa Daecheonmyeong)

These days, I wonder if we shouldn't be wary of people who are overly confident. Someone with a truly strong belief in the future doesn't just talk about it, they act on it. Be cautious of those who express conviction with words but not with actions.

▶ In reality, successful people have started things even without certainty, they have gone through periods of exhaustion and recovery, and they have been pushed around, hurt, and struggled against countless competitors. That's the reality of success. If you want to succeed like them, don't expect good things to happen with a single choice. It's more realistic to be prepared for setbacks. Your life won't magically fall into place with just one good decision.

▶ Instead of spending time looking for a perfect solution that solves all your goals at once, it's better to start with what you already know as soon as possible. Once you start, it'll be easier than you thought, and once you succeed, the hardships will fade from memory.

-Yoon Hong-geun, Mind Stamina

※Jininsa Daecheonmyeong: Do what you can, and leave the rest to fate.