In the talk titled "Mechanically Confident" at RailsConf 2018, Adam Cuppy discusses the concept of confidence, particularly in the context of software development and performance arts. He challenges the common notion that confidence is simply about believing in oneself, arguing that it is more about establishing effective habits and routines that help mitigate uncertainty. Cuppy shares insights from his experience as both an actor and a senior developer, highlighting that conscious confidence (awareness of one’s abilities) can be developed through subconscious processes related to habits and muscle memory.

Key Points Discussed:
- Conscious vs. Unconscious Confidence:
- Conscious confidence is the aware belief in one's abilities, while unconscious confidence relates to ingrained habits that operate automatically.
- The Role of Routine:
- Cuppy emphasizes that peak performers utilize specific practices and routines to build confidence.
- Routine creates familiarity and reduces anxiety when facing new challenges.
- Real-Life Example:
- Cuppy shares the story of Eugene Pauly, whose brain injury affected his short-term memory, yet he retained the ability to navigate familiar routes based on muscle memory, illustrating the power of routine versus conscious thought.
- Driving Example:
- He compares driving in a new environment—like switching to driving on the left side of the road—with managing changes in the development process, demonstrating how the body can adapt to new circumstances by focusing on familiar patterns while adjusting to the new elements.
- Applying to Software Development:
- He observes that less experienced developers often lack established routines, leading to lower confidence levels.
- By structuring work environments consistently (e.g., always placing terminals or editors in the same location), developers can enhance their confidence and reduce cognitive load.
- Four Steps to Cultivate Confidence:

1. Create a Routine: Establish regular practices that become second nature.
2. Find a Trigger and Reward: Use specific cues to initiate routines, accompanied by celebratory acknowledgment of progress.
3. Follow a Plan: Stick to routines plan diligently over time, similar to rehearsal in acting.
4. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge all successes—big or small—to foster ongoing motivation and reinforce skill development.

Cuppy concludes by encouraging attendees to develop their own routines and share practices that enhance confidence, asserting that mechanical confidence is rooted in habitual action rather than just a belief in oneself.