You are not too much. You are not too loud. You are not a burden for showing up as your whole self.

We live in a world that teaches us to shrink. To apologize before we even speak. To quiet our joy, dull our pain, and soften our truths so that we can be more “palatable.” For too long, we’ve learned to fold ourselves into corners, hoping to be accepted.

But here’s the truth:

Taking up space is not arrogance

It’s “permission.”

The Weight of Shrinking

Many of us were raised on survival. We learned to read rooms before we read books.
We made ourselves smaller; emotionally, physically, spiritually just to avoid rejection.
We apologized for crying, or even for laughing too hard, for asking questions, or for the simple need of getting rest

Sitting over time, we forgot what it felt like to simply exist without shame.

But you were never meant to be a fragment.
You were made to be full.

What Taking Up Space Really Means

Taking up space doesn’t mean dominating others. It means honoring your presence. It’s choosing to:

• Speak even if your voice shakes
• Say “no” without needing an explanation
• Express your emotions without guilt
• Wear what feels good on your skin
• Walk into a room without trying to disappear in it

It means recognizing that your voice matters

Not just because it is perfect, but because it is yours.

The Power of Being Seen

When you start taking up space, you’re not just freeing yourself

You are showcasing to others what’s possible. You become a mirror for those still hiding, still unsure.
Your visibility becomes a quiet revolution.

And no, not everyone will be ready for it.

Some may call it “too much.”

But maybe “too much” is exactly what this world needs.

A Gentle Reminder

You don’t have to earn your place in the room.

You don’t have to explain why you deserve to be here.

You already do.

So take a deep breath, and take up your space.

Loudly. Softly. Fiercely. Tenderly.

However when you show up,

Just don’t make yourself smaller to fit anyone’s comfort.