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You Don’t Need Permission to Shine: A Reminder on Confidence, Courage & Self-Leadership

May 16, 20252 min read

Have you ever walked into a room and wondered if you belonged there?
Ever doubted your readiness, your voice, or your value - even though you
knew you had something to offer?

You’re not alone.

There was a time in my journey when people tried to reduce me to just a “pretty face.”
Some were uncomfortable with my presence… because I shone brightly, and they weren’t ready to.
Others subtly (or not so subtly) suggested I tone it down, fit in, stay small.

But I chose not to.

Here’s the truth that changed everything for me:

I don’t need permission to shine - and I never apologise for doing so.

I refused to shrink and wait for someone else to validate what God had already put inside me. Instead, I anchored myself in clarity and took action with courage.

That’s how confidence is built.

It’s not just about 'feeling good' or 'being bold' - it’s about knowing who you are and owning it, day by day, choice by choice.


And then there's leadership...

One of the most underrated, yet powerful, leadership skills for women who build, lead and inspire others, is self-leadership.

Not the kind that’s visible on stages or LinkedIn feeds but the kind that shows up when no one’s watching.

The kind that whispers:
“I know you’re tired, but remember your purpose.”
“I know you don’t feel like it - but this matters.”
“I know it’s hard - but you’re stronger than you think.”

I had one of those days recently.
The kind where I didn’t want to show up.
But I paused, prayed, regrouped, and chose to
lead.

That one decision turned an ordinary client session into a breakthrough moment - for her, and for me.

That’s the power of self-leadership.

It’s legacy-building. Life-changing. And it starts with you.


Here’s what I want you to take away tday:

  • Confidence is not a gift some people get. It’s a posture we build through clarity and courage.

  • Leadership isn’t just what we do for others. It’s how we choose to lead ourselves.

  • Our light was meant to shine. And when we do, we give others permission to do the same.

So if you’ve been playing small, doubting your place, or waiting for the 'right time' - this is your invitation to stop waiting.

You don’t need permission to rise. Your voice, brilliance and boldness are needed and the time is now.


Let’s Reflect:

Where have you been dimming your light to make others comfortable?

What would change if you stopped asking for permission and started owning your brilliance?

Where do you need to lead yourself more intentionally?


📌 If this resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
📞 And if you’re ready to activate next-level confidence, clarity, and self-leadership - book your
Made for More Accelerator Call with me [here].

Your next level doesn’t require perfection. It just requires your yes.

You were made for more. Now lead like it.

Angela Tella is a certified coach, strategic mentor and speaker. Known as The Masterpiece Mentor for Life and Business, she has helped numerous aspiring and established female entrepreneurs, business owners and leaders to unlock trapped potential and step into their next level. Her insight, proven strategies and step-by-step system help her clients maximise their success, brilliance and impact from the inside out.

Angela Tella

Angela Tella is a certified coach, strategic mentor and speaker. Known as The Masterpiece Mentor for Life and Business, she has helped numerous aspiring and established female entrepreneurs, business owners and leaders to unlock trapped potential and step into their next level. Her insight, proven strategies and step-by-step system help her clients maximise their success, brilliance and impact from the inside out.

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