Let’s talk about something we often keep tucked away:
You’re not showing up fully and deep down, you know it.
Maybe you dim your light to make others comfortable.
Maybe you silence your brilliance out of fear you’ll come off as “too much.”
Or maybe… just maybe you’re scared that if you gave it your all and it still didn’t work… then what?
But here’s the truth, sis:
Playing small doesn’t protect you. It only delays your power.
What Does “Playing Small” Really Look Like?
- Second-guessing your ideas even when they’re solid
- Letting others take credit so you don’t seem “loud.”
- Waiting to feel ready before applying, posting, or pitching
- Saying “yes” when your whole soul is screaming “no”
- Staying quiet in rooms you fought hard to enter
- Downplaying your accomplishments so others don’t feel insecure
- Minimizing your dreams to make people more comfortable
If any of that feels familiar, you’re not alone. But you don’t have to stay there.
Why Do We Play Small?
Because society taught us to doubt ourselves. Because confident women are often called called “arrogant” or “intimidating”.
Because many of us carry wounds from being told we’re “too much,” or made to feel like we’re not enough.
From an early age, we’re taught to shrink:
- Be agreeable.
- Don’t take up too much space.
- Don’t outshine others.
But here’s the reality:
You are not the imposter. You are the opportunity.
You don’t need permission to take up space- you need courage to claim it.
5 Ways to Start Taking Up Space Today
- Own Your Wins- Out Loud: Celebrate your progress even when no one else notices. Talk about what you’ve achieved. Share your journey. Post your wins. Visibility is not vanity- it’s valid.
- Speak Up, Even When It’s Scary: Raise your hand. Share your idea. Say what you mean. Let them hear your voice. Each time you speak up, your confidence grows. You don’t have to be fearless- just willing.
- Move Before You Feel Ready: You don’t need to have it all figured out. Confidence grows in motion. Send the email. Make the call. Submit the application.
- Set Boundaries Without Guilt: Taking up space also means protecting your peace. Say “no” without apology. Ask for what you need. Honor your time, your energy, your worth. Boundaries don’t make you selfish, they make you sustainable.
- Surround Yourself With Women Who Stretch You: Follow women who are already taking up space. Let their confidence inspire your own. Watch how they show up, and then go do the same.
FOCN women do this daily and so can you.
Join our community of thriving confident women https://t.me/+yOdelx5ODXk4Yzlk
You Were Made for More
There’s a version of you waiting on the other side of fear.
Not perfect. Not fearless.
But bold, authentic, and unstoppable.
You don’t become her by shrinking.
You become her by showing up consistently, intentionally, and unapologetically.
So, We Dare You To:
- Walk into rooms like you belong there- because you do.
- Speak with boldness because your voice matters.
- Set goals like you expect to win because you will.
No more playing small. This is your moment. Take up space.
Join the Movement
You don’t have to do it alone.
Be part of a community of audacious women leading with confidence and grace.
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