Prudence
Etymology
From Latin prudentia, "foresight, discernment," which is a contracted form of providentia, "foreseeing," from providere ("pro-," ahead, plus "videre," to see). Prudence is thus literally the habit of looking ahead. Classical philosophy ranked it first among the cardinal virtues, since it is the practical wisdom that guides all the others.
noun · /PROO-duns/
Practical wisdom in managing affairs — the ability to judge sensibly and act with foresight.
What it names
The virtue of seeing consequences before they arrive and choosing accordingly, not out of timidity but out of good judgment.
Example
Prudence, not fear, led her to keep six months of savings before quitting to start the business.
Related idea
Caution is mere wariness, a reluctance to risk. Prudence is fuller: it weighs risks and rewards and knows when boldness is the wise course.