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Many people are familiar with fear of failure: the fear of failing, of not being good enough. But have you ever heard of fear of shining? This is the fear of being successful, of standing in the spotlight, or of showing what you are truly capable of. And yes, it really exists.
Fear of shining is a deep-seated fear of being seen in your full potential. This can manifest in avoiding opportunities, deliberately keeping yourself small, or sabotaging your own success. People with this fear may unconsciously create situations where they do not have to excel because it makes them uncomfortable. Scientifically, fear of shining is related to ‘imposter syndrome,’ where people feel they do not deserve their successes. However, while imposter syndrome stems from the fear of being exposed as a fraud, fear of shining is specifically the fear of recognition and the responsibilities that come with success.
There are various causes of fear of shining. Social conditioning often plays a role. We learn early on that modesty is a virtue. Those who stand out too much may face criticism or be perceived as arrogant. This can lead to a deep-seated fear of being ‘too much.’ Additionally, success brings expectations. Once you do something well, you must continue to meet that standard, and that prospect can be paralyzing.
The fear of jealousy or rejection also plays a part. When you shine, you may make others feel inferior. This can create tension in relationships, and some people avoid success to maintain harmony. Finally, a negative self-image can make success feel uncomfortable. If you have grown up believing you are not good enough, it can be difficult to accept recognition.
Pattern
Overcoming fear of shining starts with recognizing the pattern. Notice when you reject opportunities or keep yourself small, and ask yourself whether it is truly because something is not right for you, or if you are afraid of standing out. Shift your mindset by realizing that success does not mean you have to be perfect. You are allowed to grow, learn, and make mistakes.
Surround yourself with people who encourage your growth and are not afraid of success. This helps to let go of the fear of shining. Practice being visible by starting small, for example, by sharing your ideas, speaking up in a meeting, or showcasing your talent without setting the bar impossibly high.
Fear of shining is a hidden obstacle that holds back many talented people. But the world needs your talent. You deserve to be seen. You deserve to be successful. Do you recognize this in yourself? Take a moment to reflect: what would happen if you embraced your full potential? Share your thoughts below or send me a message. Together, we will discover how you can shine.
