The Hunt

How often have you found yourself holding back, tempering your ideas, or downplaying your achievements, aka “dimming your own light” to make space for someone else? In the fast-paced, competitive world of SaaS, B2B Tech, and B2B Services, a subtle yet pervasive phenomenon exists: the act of “dimming your light” to allow others to shine. While seemingly altruistic, this behavior often stems from a place of people-pleasing and, ultimately, can hinder both individual growth and organizational progress.

True leadership isn’t about one person’s brilliance overshadowing another’s. It’s about cultivating an environment where everyone can operate at their peak, where diverse perspectives are valued, and where individual strengths contribute to a collective, amplified glow.

The Peril of Self-Imposed Shadows

Intentionally dimming your light—suppressing your authentic self, capabilities, or insights—often arises from a fear of standing out, being judged, or inadvertently making others feel insecure. However, this self-imposed restraint carries significant consequences:

• Erosion of Authenticity: When you consistently hold back, you create a disconnect between who you are and how you present yourself. As research published in Harvard Business Review suggests, authentic leadership is crucial for building trust and fostering a strong organizational culture. Suppressing your true self can lead to a sense of unfulfillment and even resentment.
• Missed Opportunities: Your unique insights and contributions are valuable. By not fully expressing them, you might be preventing innovative solutions, strategic breakthroughs, or crucial improvements from coming to fruition. A missed opportunity can have significant ripple effects.
• Stifled Growth: Personal and professional growth thrive on challenge and expression. When you dim your light, you stunt your own potential and limit your ability to reach new heights in your career.

The Power of Authentic Radiance

Shining your light isn’t about arrogance or outshining others. It’s about expressing your authentic self, leveraging your strengths, and inspiring those around you. A study by McKinsey & Company on leadership in the digital age emphasizes the importance of leaders who are adaptable, inclusive, and foster psychological safety—qualities that are deeply intertwined with authenticity. Many refer to this as the “It” Factor”, a Belief in Oneself

When you operate from a place of genuine self-expression, you:

• Inspire Others: Your authenticity can empower your team members and colleagues to embrace their own unique qualities, creating a culture of boldness and innovation.
• Build Stronger Teams: A team where everyone feels safe and encouraged to contribute their best ideas is far more effective than one where individuals feel the need to suppress themselves.
• Drive Better Outcomes: Diverse perspectives and uninhibited contributions lead to more robust discussions, better decision-making, and ultimately, superior business results.

Supporting Others Without Self-Sacrifice

The core of true support lies not in diminishing yourself, but in creating an environment where everyone can thrive. There’s also a fine line of “overselling”. As Forbes Council Member, William Arruda, highlights, “You can be a champion for others without dimming your own light.” It’s about co-creation and collective elevation, not a zero-sum game.

Consider these approaches:

• Celebrate Together: Acknowledge and applaud the successes of your colleagues and team members genuinely. Their wins don’t detract from yours; they often create new opportunities for everyone.
• Mentor and Elevate: Use your experience and position to uplift others. Provide guidance, share knowledge, and advocate for your team, knowing that their growth contributes to the overall strength of your organization.
• Collaborate Authentically: Engage in collaborative efforts where every voice is heard and valued. Encourage open dialogue and constructive debate, allowing all ideas to be explored without fear of overshadowing.

In the dynamic landscapes of SaaS, B2B Tech, and B2B Services, genuine leadership demands that you illuminate your path while also empowering others to ignite theirs. It’s not about one person shining brighter, but about building a constellation of brilliance where every star contributes to a more luminous future.

What steps will you take today to ensure you—and your team—are shining your brightest?

Artemis Consultants is a premier purpose driven executive staffing company, delivering talent worth the hunt for the SaaS, B2B Tech and B2B Services industries. We exist for two reasons: To help companies advance and grow by recruiting highly qualified talent. And to provide people career opportunities that positively impact their lives.