You have to "push the envelope" gradually to gain confidence in a bike.
I upgraded my brakes from 1970s Weinman calipers to Shimano 105 dual pivots (long drop ones to fit the old frame). They increased my braking power and my control/modulation. I have alot more confidence riding big steep hills now.

I made the change as a result of crash damage. 3 months after the crash I noticed a hairline crack at the pivot of my front brake lever. Just for fun I squeezed it as hard as I could and managed to snap the old lever in half. Since I was replacing levers, I thought I may as well upgrade the calipers. The best upgrade I have made.