From early in our careers, many women are told to “tone it down”—don’t be too smart, too bold, or too ambitious. But hiding your brilliance to fit in or avoid criticism doesn’t protect you. It diminishes you—and it diminishes everyone around you.
Linda Cureton’s story of her colleagues who tried to extinguish her light—the “Judases”—reminds us that dimming our brilliance never works. The solution isn’t to shine less—it’s to shine authentically and help others do the same.
Challenge 1: The Temptation to Dim Your Light
Fear of backlash or stereotyping (“angry Black woman,” “too ambitious”) pushes many women to downplay their strengths.
The Reframe:
Hiding your brilliance doesn’t shield you from criticism.
Your light is meant to inspire others, not be hidden under a basket.
Influence comes from authenticity, not conformity.
Challenge 2: How Dimming Weakens Everyone
When leaders hide their gifts, organizations lose innovation, creativity, and confidence.
The Reframe:
One dimmed light reduces collective visibility.
Shining fully invites others to shine too.
Courage is contagious—use it to spark others.
Challenge 3: The Power of Authentic Brilliance
Standing tall in your brilliance sets a new cultural standard for leadership.
The Reframe:
Use your gifts unapologetically.
Reframe brilliance as service, not ego.
Transform criticism into proof you’re disrupting the status quo.
Challenge 4: Uplifting Others Through Your Light
Leadership isn’t just about shining for yourself—it’s about helping others shine.
The Reframe:
Mentor, sponsor, and advocate for women who feel unseen.
Celebrate differences and authenticity.
Share your light—because leadership is amplified in community.
Conclusion
Dimming your brilliance never works. It doesn’t protect you—it weakens you. Leaders who shine authentically strengthen themselves, their teams, and the women who follow them.
Call to Action: This week, commit to one act of shining your light—whether by speaking boldly, mentoring generously, or celebrating another woman’s success. Your brilliance isn’t a liability—it’s a gift.