there is a classic recurring dream in which a person finds himself on stage, unprepared in front of an audience of critics. I guess it is a common dream because we all want to avoid public humiliation.

As we mature, we all learn to cope with the uncertainty of risk in different ways... but most of them have to do with making sure we are prepared. Preparation gives us confidence, and confidence enables us to perform.

Some people acquire confidence through good looks. Others are confident of their various abilities. Some people have confidence because of money or connections.

And some just don't have any confidence at all.

I've noticed that people tend to argue on behalf of whatever strategy gives THEM confidence. In my case, most of those things are not available. I can't acquire the confidence that comes from good looks, money, talent or connections.

My strategy has been to visualize where I want to end up, decide what resources are needed to get there, take stock of which resources I already have... and then I buy off-the-shelf solutions to get the rest

Then, when I have what it takes to succeed, I have the confidence to move forward.

If this was not a workable plan, the vast majority of humans would be stuck in the swamp of mediocrity, unable to accomplish anything.

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ey71h8ep047758h/AAC12jNM0Hz9Q8zsh5iDeqNHa?dl=0