It’s scary to be seen. To be truly, authentically, seen. To let your light shine so that you can inspire others to let their light shine. But it is so so powerful when you do open up and allow yourself to be seen.

I think this is why a lot of women are fine with the status quo of their current wardrobe. It’s appropriate, it gets the job done, it gets you out the door and you don’t run the risk of being noticed.

No one is going to compliment you on your shoes, your bag, your belt, your dress, etc. Heaven forbid they compliment YOU. You’re safe.

But what happens when you open up to being seen? What happens when you invest in yourself (whether time, money or effort)?

You shine.

You give other women the permission to shine.

You get complimented on your shoes, your hair, your bag, your outfit. People see YOU.

And while they may be complimenting physical things, they are also seeing you at a deeper level because you allowed them. They’re noticing your smile, your kindness, your quick wit and your problem-solving skills.

They see you as a contender. A power player. Someone to watch.

You inspire them.

Yes, your dress and the way you show up has the ability to positively influence people.

They did a study on how people’s dress affected how they were perceived as well as how they perceived themselves. They called the results enclothed cognition.

The results showed that if you wore a lab coat not only did others perceive you as more intelligent, but you also showed up and acted more intelligent. Our clothes do influence our behavior.

So if you’re going for that promotion, building your business and wanting to land that big speaking engagement, you better start showing up. You better let yourself be seen.

Add the accessory, a pop of color, show your shape. It can start that simply. I want you to be seen. I want you to shine. I want you to know you got this.

You are beautiful. Own it. And do the good work you’re meant to do. Now. Be seen so you can get your message out. So you can affect the lives you’re meant to change. So you can create the life of your dreams.