Quit Playing Small
This very popular quote inspires me deeply. It’s about how we must not limit ourselves to accommodate our own fears and insecurities.
Throughout my life I felt like I’ve permitted myself to not be as bold or loud as I could have been, and it has come at a cost. I haven’t been able to give the world all that I have to offer.
That’s unacceptable, but now since I know better I’m committed to doing better. And I hope the same for you.
The quote I’ve been referencing comes from Marianne Williamson, and it goes as follows:
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“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
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What this quote suggests is how we think that diminishing ourselves serves others because it makes them feel less bad about themselves, but the reality is when we model excellence and full self-expression it inspires others to be better themselves.
And I’ve found that this limiting story is entirely self-sabotage. It’s a convenient rationalization that keeps you in the confines of your comfort zone. It convinces you to not make waves in the world because your success threatens others.
“Your playing small does not serve the world.”
So quit playing small! What does playing big look like? What would you commit to? What would change?
Allow yourself to picture that possibility and if you’re courageous enough, choose it today.
