Why Hiding Your Success is So Last Season
Growing up, many of us were taught to make ourselves small to fit in, to blend into the background rather than stand out. We were conditioned to believe that celebrating our achievements was boastful and that sharing our successes was akin to bragging. But why were we taught this? Why were we encouraged to hide our accomplishments and dim our light to avoid being perceived as overbearing?
Reflecting on these societal norms, I can’t help but feel a sense of sadness. How unfortunate it is that the joy of feeling fulfilled and proud of our achievements is often overshadowed by the fear of being told we’re full of ourselves. The idea that we should keep our successes hidden is a narrative that has held many of us back for far too long.
I vividly remember moments from my own life when I instinctively made myself small to avoid drawing attention. Whether it was getting an answer right in class or achieving a personal milestone, I would shrink into myself, hoping no one would notice. I learned to dim my light anytime it shone too brightly, fearing the repercussions of standing out.
As I transitioned into adulthood, these ingrained behaviors made negotiating my worth challenging. Decades of hiding what made me worthy resulted in self-doubt and hesitation. Walking through offices often felt like navigating the halls of middle school—do well, but don’t attract too much attention. Smile, but not too much. Laugh, but not too loudly. Ask questions, but not too often.
Isn’t it ironic that despite these teachings, we all grew up with a deep-seated desire to be seen and acknowledged? We craved recognition and validation, yet we were taught to suppress these desires to conform to societal expectations.
But enough is enough. It’s time to break free from these constraints and embrace our successes with pride. Starting now, I’m turning my brightness all the way up. I’m raising my hand high for all to see, making noise, and celebrating every step of the way without being told to lower my voice. I’m determined to make up for lost time and take up space for every moment I didn’t.
By doing so, I hope to inspire others to do the same. It’s okay to celebrate your achievements without feeling the need to shrink. It’s okay to take up space and be unapologetically proud of who you are and what you’ve accomplished.
If I’m fortunate enough to have a daughter, I want to teach her that self-esteem isn’t self-conceit. Celebrating isn’t boasting, and taking up room isn’t pretentious. I want her to understand that she owes it to the world to show her full potential and to be proud of her accomplishments.
Imagine the impact we could have if we raised a new generation that grows up being seen and celebrated for who they are. A generation that understands the value of their achievements and isn’t afraid to share them with the world. The changes we would see would be profound.
By embracing our successes and encouraging others to do the same, we can create a culture that values authenticity and self-expression. We can foster an environment where individuals feel empowered to pursue their dreams and share their accomplishments without fear of judgment or ridicule.
This shift in mindset begins with us. It’s about recognizing the narratives we’ve been taught and choosing to rewrite them. It’s about celebrating our wins, both big and small, and encouraging those around us to do the same. It’s about creating a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for who they are.
To truly embrace this change, we must start by examining the roots of these limiting beliefs. Often, they stem from societal expectations and cultural norms that prioritize humility over self-promotion. While humility is a valuable trait, it should not come at the expense of acknowledging and celebrating our achievements. We need to find a balance where we can be humble yet proud, modest yet confident.
One way to achieve this balance is by redefining what it means to be successful. Success should not be measured solely by external validation or material accomplishments. Instead, it should encompass personal growth, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges. By broadening our definition of success, we can create a more inclusive and empowering narrative that encourages everyone to celebrate their unique journey.
Moreover, it’s essential to create supportive communities that uplift and celebrate each other’s successes. Whether it’s in the workplace, among friends, or within families, fostering an environment of encouragement and recognition can make a significant difference. When we celebrate others, we create a ripple effect that inspires more people to embrace their achievements and take pride in their accomplishments.
Social media can also play a role in this transformation. While it often highlights curated versions of success, it can also be a powerful tool for sharing authentic stories and celebrating real achievements. By using these platforms to uplift and inspire, we can contribute to a culture that values genuine success and encourages others to do the same.
Additionally, education systems can play a crucial role in shaping how future generations perceive success and self-worth. By incorporating lessons on self-esteem, resilience, and the importance of celebrating achievements into the curriculum, we can equip young people with the tools they need to navigate the world with confidence. Encouraging students to take pride in their accomplishments and to support their peers in doing the same can foster a sense of community and empowerment.
Ultimately, the journey to embracing our successes and taking up space is a personal one. It requires self-reflection, courage, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. But by taking these steps, we can create a world where everyone feels empowered to shine their light and celebrate their unique contributions.
So let’s start today. Let’s turn up our brightness and take up the space we deserve. Let’s celebrate our achievements and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can create a future where success is celebrated, not hidden, and where everyone feels empowered to shine their light for all to see.
In doing so, we not only honor our own journey but also pave the way for future generations to grow up in a world that values authenticity, self-expression, and the celebration of success in all its forms. Let’s embrace the power of taking up space and show the world the incredible potential that lies within each of us.
Be Inspired..!! 
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