Don’t Dim It, Damn It – Why Playing Small Isn’t Good

How many times have you held back in a meeting, skipped sharing your win, or toned yourself down so others wouldn’t feel uncomfortable? In this episode of Bounce Back Better, Hilary Saxton calls time on playing small - because it doesn’t just hurt you, it keeps everyone in the dark.

Inspired by a five-year-old named Billy, who strutted into a movie theatre in full Sonic the Hedgehog gear without a care in the world, Hilary explores what it really means to show up unapologetically. From the “spotlight effect” (spoiler: people aren’t noticing you as much as you think) to tall poppy syndrome and imposter syndrome, this episode is a deep dive into why we dim our brilliance - and how to stop.

You’ll discover:

• ✅ Why worrying about being “too much” is making you forgettable

• ✅ How dimming your light doesn’t help others shine - it just keeps everyone in the dark

• ✅ The real reason confidence grows when you put your hand up

• ✅ Why visibility is an act of service

• ✅ How to fire the fake audience in your head

This week’s challenge: Turn the dial up one notch brighter. Post the win. Speak up. Wear the bold lipstick. Apply for the thing. Stop shrinking to fit into rooms you’ve already outgrown. You weren’t born to be beige - you were born to be unforgettable.

🔗 More tools and resources: www.hilarysaxton.com
📕 Grab your copy of 3 Wines In: hilarysaxton.com/product/3-wines-in
🎥 Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/TYzE3RkRpvg

✉️ Lightbulb moment? Email Hilary: [email protected]

 

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