Born to Shine
I’ve been thinking about and asking myself the following question, “Why are women afraid to shine?” Many, including me, sometimes have a difficult time acknowledging and celebrating our accomplishments. I believe it comes down to fear. Fear of judgement, failure, worthiness and trying not to out-shine others. We’ve either forgotten who we were or we’ve allowed someone or something to get into our head.
Earlier in my life, I had an anticipated opportunity and experience I was excited about taking part in; a year in the waiting. Well, that is until I overheard two people talking about how I wasn’t ready. They decided it wasn’t my time to shine. I was gutted because I felt ready and wouldn’t have the opportunity again. Instead of addressing the situation, I allowed myself to shrink. I sunk into the dark corners to watch others radiate and become who they were expected to be in that moment. In turn, I kept my light dim and became who they thought I’d be. I covered-up the sparkle I had deep in my soul.
Fast forward to now … I want to take the younger me into my arms and tell her how bright her light is. That she is special and can do hard things. That it’s ok to fail and learn valuable lessons from those mistakes. I want her to know she was born to shine and to help others see their own radiance. I want to tell her that I see her and I love her.
Even though I don’t always get it right, I try to be an example for others by shining my light on the path for them to see. I also get inspired and uplifted when others illuminate that same path for me. Helping each other see who we really are is the magic we create for one another. "As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence actually liberates others." - Marianne Williamson
Ways to shine:
Practice confidence: speak up
Show your vulnerability - it connects with others
Embrace relationships with the women you admire
Find a mentor to push you and be your cheerleader
Say yes to something on your “Someday List”
Lift others up and root for them to succeed
What a powerful and uplifting world it can be when we shine the light for others to follow. Grab someone’s hand and help them onto the next step in their journey, and accept a helping hand on your own path. Because you were born to shine; rise up and be her.
xoxox…..Sheryl