Episode 130: Learning to Be Seen & The Courage to Take Up Space
his episode has been sitting on my heart for the past week, and I’ve finally gathered the words to bring it to you. My hope is that this episode meets you where you are and inspires you to claim space in your life, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Self-Discovery Through Color
This episode starts with a dinner with a friend and a conversation about intentionality, specifically around wardrobe. What unfolded next was something much deeper than I ever expected. A color analysis session turned into a powerful moment of self-realization. I walked in hoping I’d be labeled as “autumn” (hello, brand colors!) but what I got was “winter.” The bold, dramatic tones were so outside my comfort zone, yet I couldn’t deny how they brought out my features. That moment made me realize how much I’ve been dressing, and maybe even living, to not be seen.
The Fear of Being Seen
The color analysis revealed more than hues that suit me, it pulled back the curtain on the beliefs I carry around visibility and worth. I found myself wrestling with the discomfort of being seen, of standing out, of taking up space in a world that often teaches us to shrink. It brought up old memories, like the time I wore a bright emerald jumpsuit while giving a presentation at Immersion Live called “You Have Permission to Take Up Space.” Funny how I was literally talking about that while wearing something that made me feel vulnerable and exposed. This episode dives deep into that contrast, how we long to make an impact, but fear the visibility it requires.
Expanding Into Who You Already Are
I talk about what it means to “take up space”, not just physically, but emotionally and creatively. It’s about allowing yourself to fully show up, voice and all. I challenge you (and myself) to reflect on the ways we might be shrinking back, and what it would look like to truly expand. Whether it’s sharing your work online, pitching a dream client, or simply choosing to wear the color that makes you feel powerful, this episode is your gentle nudge to step into that space. Because the truth is, the space you take up is made by you.
If this episode speaks to something stirring inside of you, I hope you’ll lean in. Let this be your reminder that you're not too much, you're not alone, and it’s more than okay to be seen. I’ll be here all summer, showing up alongside you, even in the messiness. Make sure you're on my email list at thetillagepodcast.com so you never miss an episode. And as always, I’m cheering you on as you grow into the fullness of who you are.
Key Takeaways:
Taking up space starts with honesty. My color analysis wasn’t just about lipstick or seasons, it revealed how much I’ve been hiding in plain sight, even in my wardrobe choices. As creatives, it’s easy to downplay our presence without realizing it.
Your visibility shapes your creative path. When you shrink, so does your impact. But when you allow yourself to be seen, even just a little, you start attracting opportunities, connections, and the clarity you’ve been craving.
Small shifts lead to big change. Easing into bolder colors helped me ease into being seen more fully. The same goes for your creativity. Sharing one post, speaking up in one meeting, or pitching one idea can open doors.
Being seen isn’t about being loud. It’s about being clear. And clarity comes from knowing who you are, what matters to you, and being willing to show up in alignment with that even when it’s uncomfortable.
Your courage gives others permission. When you claim your space, you create ripples. Other creatives watching you are reminded that they can step into their own space and be seen too.
Forgiveness Statements:
for comparing myself to others
for dimming my light
for not stewarding my gifts well
for not acting sooner
for being driven by fear
for not being open to abundance
for stunting my growth
for overthinking
for giving up
for not making space to dream
