Tina Fey

Confidence as Work Ethic Wrapped in Delusion

Tina Fey’s line lands because it sounds like a joke and a confession at once: the part of confidence we praise as “self-belief” is often closer to audacity than evidence. By reducing it to “10% hard work and 90% delusion,” she flips the usual advice—be prepared, be qualified—into something more honest about how people actually act when they take risks. That framing also signals a social reality: confidence is frequently mistaken for competence, so projecting it becomes a tool for entry into rooms where you’re not yet proven. In other words, Fey isn’t dismissing effort; she’s pointing out that effort alone rarely produces the nerve required to step forward. [...]

Stop Overthinking and Take the Plunge

This does not mean thought is useless; rather, it must have a clear endpoint. Planning, gathering information, and weighing options are like climbing the ladder: necessary steps that prepare you for the ride. The problem arises only when you refuse to transition from planning to execution. Decision-making research by Gary Klein on recognition-primed strategies shows that experts often rely on a mix of prior analysis and swift commitment in the moment. In that spirit, Fey’s advice is to do your thinking on the way up, then honor that work by acting. Eventually, wisdom is built not merely from what you considered, but from what you actually dared to do. [...]

Just Keep Moving Forward - Tina Fey

By urging individuals to keep moving forward, Fey reinforces the value of authenticity. Staying true to oneself rather than conforming to societal expectations is essential for genuine happiness. [...]