TED Talks Daily The "hot shot rule" to help you become a better leader | Kat Cole (re-release)
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Apr 29, 2026 
Kat Cole, a business leader who rose from waitress to CEO, shares her “hot shot rule” for stepping into stronger leadership. She explores why confidence follows action. She talks about fighting complacency before problems hit. She also reflects on self-coaching, courage from her mother, and using quick decisive moves at work and in life.
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Confidence Comes From Reps Of Action
- Confidence follows action, not the other way around; repeated action builds both self-trust and others' trust in your abilities.
- Kat Cole argues hard times force action anyway, but real growth comes from pushing past complacency when things already feel fine.
Her Mother's Exit Became A Model For Action
- Kat Cole's mother left an alcoholic husband without money, mentors, or a playbook, choosing action over delay.
- At nine, Kat thought, "What took you so long?" and learned that others often wait for someone to finally do the right thing.
Self Coaching Started During Her Fast Rise
- Starting with mall jobs at 15 and restaurant work at 17, Kat Cole reached executive leadership by 26 while lacking outside mentorship.
- She began self-coaching after hearing a consultant suggest imagining someone else in your role to spark better action.