I looked up and surprisingly, two months had passed since my last blog post. [Face palm] This season of my life has been extremely busy with taking on new responsibilities at work, leading a small group, taking classes, preparing for my next book release, and the list goes on. Instead of publishing material that is rushed or not genuine, I’d rather create something meaningful and lasting. So, today’s blog post is inspired by the idea of taking up space.

If you ask any of my close friends, they will tell you that a few years ago, it was normal for me to show up super early for a social event. In college, I arrived 30 minutes before the start of class. The same goes for any other gathering where there would be a large attendance. I absolutely loathed walking into huge crowds. At the time, I would have preferred to shrink in a corner, unnoticed. But as time went on and my confidence grew, my habit of showing up small slowly began to cease.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
Matthew 5:15 NIV

I once paid a friend to create a piece of artwork for me. That same friend visited my home and asked where the drawing was. It was tucked away in the same envelope I’d received it in. Needless to say, my friend was hurt. No one wants their masterpiece to be hidden. When God created us, He didn’t intend for us to shrink in fear, to not pursue our dreams, or to be anything less than amazing. We were created to show up big, to take up space.

My dad once told me to never downplay my accomplishments or hide who I am out of fear that it will make other people uncomfortable. Taking up space isn’t about being boastful or proud. It’s about being purposeful, incomparable and unapologetic. I used to be hesitant to speak up for myself. I used to stand with my shoulders slightly slumped when I was nervous. I used to shy away from new opportunities because I was afraid. Showing up big looks different for everyone. It’s definitely not something I’ve perfected. Sometimes, my fears still get in the way. However, it’s something I get to work on every single day.

Remember, shyness is not of God, and smallness doesn’t accomplish purpose. So, speak up. Voice your opinions. Stand up straight. Be confident. Be respectful. Be kind. Be yourself. Pursue your interests and ideas. And whether you’re late or on time, take up space.

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”
Matthew 5:14

What does taking up space look like for you? I’d love to know in the comments below 🙂