Shining Bright in a World That Fears Your Light

There’s an unspoken rule for people like me: Don’t shine too brightly.??

I learned that lesson early. Whether it was the subtle ways people sidestepped my presence or the overt attempts to diminish my voice, the message was clear: my light wasn’t welcome. It was threatening. It was “too much.”??

But here’s the thing about light: it doesn’t exist to make people comfortable. It exists to illuminate, to reveal, to empower.??

Over the years, I’ve found ways to keep my light shining, even in spaces that tried to dim it. For those who’ve felt the weight of the world’s discomfort with your brilliance, here’s how I’ve learned to thrive:??

1. Redefine Success on Your Own Terms??

The corporate world loves to define success in narrow, often exclusionary ways. Early in my career, I felt like I had to fit their mold to succeed—soften my tone, shrink my ideas, and avoid standing out too much. But that path wasn’t sustainable.??

I started asking myself: What does success mean to me???

For me, success isn’t just about promotions or accolades. It’s about creating work that feels authentic and impactful, building relationships where I don’t have to explain or justify my worth, and walking into a room with my head held high—unapologetically.??

By redefining success on my terms, I freed myself from chasing validation from people who didn’t see me in the first place.??

2. Build a Support System That Celebrates You??

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: you can’t thrive in isolation.??

I intentionally sought out mentors, colleagues, and friends who not only accepted me for who I am but celebrated it. These are the people who see my light and say, “Shine brighter.”??

Your support system doesn’t have to be large, but it does have to be authentic. Find people who remind you of your worth when the world tries to make you forget.??

3. Master the Art of Self-Preservation??

Let’s be real: shining in a world that fears your light can be exhausting.??

I’ve learned to prioritize rest, joy, and boundaries. Some days, this means stepping away from spaces that feel toxic. Other days, it’s about taking time to pour into myself—whether through journaling, a favorite hobby, or just sitting in silence and reclaiming my energy.??

Shining your light doesn’t mean burning yourself out. Protect your flame, because the world needs it to keep burning.??

4. Create Spaces Where Your Light Can Thrive??

Sometimes, the best way to shine is to build your own space.??

I’ve leaned into opportunities to create and contribute to environments where I feel valued. Whether that’s leading a team, starting a community initiative, or mentoring others, these spaces become sanctuaries where my light isn’t just tolerated—it’s celebrated.??

When you can’t find a seat at the table, build your own table. And invite others who’ve been told to dim their lights to join you.??

5. Remember Your "Why"??

On the hardest days, I remind myself why I do this.??

My light isn’t just for me—it’s for the people who come after me. It’s for the young Black woman sitting in a meeting, wondering if she’ll ever be seen for her brilliance. It’s for anyone who’s been told they’re “too much” when, in reality, they’ve always been exactly enough.??

When you remember your "why," it becomes easier to keep shining, even when the world makes it hard.??

The World May Fear Your Light, but It Needs It??

If you’ve ever been told to dim your light, I want you to know this: your brilliance isn’t the problem. The discomfort it causes isn’t a reflection of you—it’s a reflection of a world that isn’t used to seeing people like you shine.??

But change doesn’t come from dimming our lights. It comes from illuminating what’s possible.??

So, let your light blaze unapologetically. Fill the spaces around you with your warmth, your energy, and your presence. And remember, you are not alone.??

There are others like you, shining their lights in defiance of the darkness. Together, we can create a world where no one has to dim themselves to fit in.??

Follow my profile for more reflections on owning your light and thriving in spaces that weren’t built for you.??