Summary

In this episode of Your Aha Life, Tonya Harris Cornileus, Ph.D., explores the mindset and psychology behind why individuals often play small and how they can reclaim their confidence and take up space in their lives and leadership roles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-belief, integrity, and resilience, and provides practical steps to overcome psychological barriers that prevent individuals from fully expressing themselves. Through personal anecdotes and reflective exercises, listeners are encouraged to recognize their worth and embrace their authentic selves.

Keywords

confidence, self-belief, personal growth, leadership, authenticity, taking up space, resilience, empowerment, mindset, psychology

Takeaways

• The journey to confidence involves recognizing when we play small.

• Taking up space means being mentally, emotionally, and energetically present.
• Societal conditioning often teaches us to shrink ourselves.
• Past experiences can lead to a fear of being too much or not enough.
• Imposter syndrome can hinder our ability to take up space.
• We often seek approval before expressing ourselves.
• Confidence comes from within, not from external validation.
• Taking up space is about owning your presence and voice.
• Practical steps can help build confidence and reclaim space.
• Reflecting on how to take up space can lead to personal growth.

Sound Bites

"We moderate too darn much sometimes."

"Have you ever dimmed your own light?"

"You don't need approval to be yourself."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Confidence and Taking Up Space

07:15 Understanding the Conditioning to Play Small

17:37 The Meaning of Taking Up Space

22:56 Psychological Reasons for Shrinking

26:49 Practical Steps to Build Confidence

29:36 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action