The idea of “playing small” refers to the tendency of some individuals to hold themselves back. This means not fully operating at their potential. This can manifest in various ways, such as:

• not pursuing one’s passions or goals

• not speaking up in situations where one’s voice could make a difference

• not taking risks that could lead to growth and personal development.

Why do people play small?

There are many reasons someone might “play small,” including fear of failure, self-doubt, lack of confidence, and a belief that one cannot achieve certain things. Unfortunately, these thoughts and ideas can be insidious and deeply entrenched. They can keep us from reaching our full potential and living fulfilling lives.

However, it’s essential to recognize that “playing small” is a choice, and it’s one that we can choose to change. We can all overcome our fears, doubts, and limiting beliefs and step outside our comfort zones to pursue our goals and dreams.

How to “play big”

One way to start “playing big” is to identify the areas in which you might be holding yourself back. Then, take small, incremental steps to overcome these barriers. This might involve:

Setting small, achievable goals

Here are a few key elements:

• Start by identifying the more significant task or objective you want to accomplish.
• Break down the task or objective into smaller, manageable steps. These steps should be specific, measurable, and achievable within a particular timeframe.
• Prioritize the steps and set deadlines for completing each one.
• Take action and work on completing each small goal. Be sure to monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
• Celebrate each small accomplishment along the way, and use those victories to fuel your motivation to continue working toward your larger goal.

Seeking the support and guidance of others

There are several benefits to seeking the support and guidance of others, including:

• Gaining new perspectives and insights: Others can provide fresh perspectives and ideas that you may not have considered, which can be invaluable when working towards a goal or trying to solve a problem.
• Accessing a network of resources: Others can offer access to resources and information that you may not have on your own, such as connections to people, equipment, or materials that can help you achieve your goals.
• Reducing feelings of isolation: Working towards a goal or facing a challenge can be a lonely experience, and seeking the support and guidance of others can help reduce feelings of isolation and give you a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
• Building accountability: Having others to share your progress with, and having others to be accountable to, can help you stay motivated and on track and can also help you make progress more quickly.
• Reducing stress: Having a support system can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Seeking out new experiences and opportunities that challenge and stretch you

Here are a few benefits of seeking out new experiences and opportunities:

• Personal growth: Engaging in new experiences and challenges can help you learn more about yourself, your strengths and weaknesses, and your capabilities.
• Increased confidence: As you take on new challenges and accomplish things you never thought possible, your confidence will grow.
• Improved problem-solving and critical thinking: Facing new and unfamiliar situations can help you develop your problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which can benefit your personal and professional life.
• Increased resilience: Navigating through the challenges of new experiences can build your mental and emotional strength, making you better equipped to handle stress and adversity.
• Greater sense of accomplishment: what you gain from overcoming new challenges can be gratifying.

It’s also important to remember that “playing big” doesn’t necessarily mean taking on massive, daunting challenges right away. It can also mean simply being more present and engaged in your daily life. Like, speaking up when you have something to contribute and actively seeking opportunities to grow and develop.

In conclusion, “playing small” is a mindset that can hold us back and prevent us from reaching our full potential. By recognizing and challenging this tendency, we can begin to “play big” and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.