Leading with Confidence: Overcoming the Fear of Being “Too Much”

Leading with Confidence: Overcoming the Fear of Being “Too Much”


As women, we’ve been told time and time again to tone it down—to be quieter, softer, more agreeable. But here’s the truth: Your power lies in embracing your entire self unapologetically!

I know what it’s like to feel like you're “too much.” As a single mother working my way through law school with torn clothes and no money for food, I constantly felt like I didn’t belong. I was told to play small, to keep my head down, and not rock the boat. And yet, despite everything, I finished in the top 1% on the bar exam.

But after I graduated, I found myself struggling. No one celebrated my achievements. My self-esteem was low, and I was still trying to fit into a box that was never meant for me.

It took years of overcoming personal trauma and societal pressures to realize that the only way to truly succeed was to lead my way and my life?unapologetically and?embrace my style without holding back or making myself smaller to fit in.

The question is: Why we as Women Are Afraid of Being “Too Much”:

So many women, particularly those in leadership, feel like they need to hide parts of themselves to be accepted, not criticized or pointed out. Whether it’s toning down their ambitions, softening their voice, or downplaying their intelligence, we’ve been conditioned to believe that “too much” is bad.

Here’s why that mindset needs to change urgently:

  1. Dimmed Authenticity Hurts Your Leadership: When you shrink yourself to fit in, you’re not leading from your true self. Authenticity is what builds trust and respect—both in life and in business.
  2. Fear Limits Your Potential: Fear of judgment or rejection holds you back from taking bold action. When you lead from fear, you’re always second-guessing your decisions.
  3. Society Benefits from Confident Women: The world needs more bold, unapologetic women. Your confidence inspires others to rise, and that’s how true leadership legacies are built.

Start Leading with Confidence, Unapologetically:

  1. Embrace Your Full Self: Stop filtering yourself to fit others’ expectations. Whether it’s in meetings, at home, or in your personal goals, start owning your power and ambition.
  2. Set Boundaries that Serve You: Confident leaders set clear boundaries. It’s not about being selfish—it’s about protecting your energy and only saying yes to things that align with your goals.
  3. Break Free from External Validation: Many women seek validation from others before taking bold action. It’s time to trust yourself and your vision. Your leadership doesn’t need to be validated by anyone but you.

My Personal Journey to Unapologetic Leadership:

After graduating from law school, I still tried to fit into boxes, second-guessing every move and always searching for external approval. I went through mobbing, harassment, and trauma, all of which made me question my worth and power and even my place.

But once I learned to embrace the truth that my leadership was enough, exactly as it was, everything changed. I no longer sought to blend in—I wanted to stand out, be bold, and lead without fear.

And that’s what I do now—I help women become unapologetic leaders. I work with women who are tired of being “too much” but are ready to fully own their space in the world.

“Are you tired of holding back? Ready to own your leadership and step into your full potential? Let’s connect. Start lead unapologetically.”

Dale Young

Sharing the balanced life with influencers

2 个月

“External validation” is a problem for many of us Raquel Nú?ez-Alicea, Esq.

James E. Mayer, Jr., CRPS, C(k)P

We Help YOU Retire with Confidence! | Executive Director, Branch Manager at Huffman Mayer Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors

2 个月

Great article, thanks for sharing Raquel Nú?ez-Alicea, Esq.

Rob Kamranpoor P.Eng, MBA, LL.M ?

Utility Leader | Transforming Your Mindset to Help Lead Others | Helping Develop Tomorrow's Leaders | Host of the RK Leadership Podcast

2 个月

This is a great topic for leaders to read. Thanks for sharing!

Marlies Hazelaar

The Self Leadership Coach for Corporate Professionals | ICF ACC | I Help You Get Unstuck and Elevate Your Life to More Joy, Energy, Impact, Meaning, Confidence and Fulfillment | Life Coach

2 个月

It is a healing journey to make no excuse for who you are and how you full out and all-in. I very much relate to your story Raquel Nú?ez-Alicea, Esq.

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