Why Do We Hold Back? Let Them Judge—And Shine Anyway: Stepping Into Confidence and Inspiring Others to Do the Same

Have you ever hesitated to share a win or celebrate yourself—just because you were worried what others might think? If so, you’re not alone. On a powerful episode of the She Finds Joy podcast, happiness coach and speaker Kim Strobel lays it all out with real talk, personal stories, and a dose of “let them judge—just shine anyway” empowerment. If you (or your team) ever wrestle with self-doubt or the pressure to shrink yourself, Kim’s message is exactly what you need.

Why Do We Hold Back? 

It’s all too common, especially for women: we censor our wins, hide our confidence, and dim our light rather than risk being seen as “arrogant” or “too much.” Kim shares how years of people-pleasing and fear of judgment once kept her small—even when showing up for her business meant being visible on social media. The fear isn’t just hypothetical; it’s personal. Kim recounts being questioned for posting photos, for celebrating progress in health and fitness, and for simply embodying self-confidence. The result? A constant negotiation between authenticity and acceptance.

But ruminating on others’ opinions doesn’t serve us—or those we lead. As Kim puts it:

“The world needs our light. When we shine our light, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same.”

The Let Them Theory: Permission to Be You 

Drawing from Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” theory, Kim introduces a simple but powerful mindset shift: let people have their opinions, their judgments, even their negativity. Your only job? To keep showing up, authentically and unapologetically. Their discomfort is not yours to carry. It’s your responsibility to shine your light, own your achievements, and honor the self-love that fuels real happiness.

As Kim says, “Self-love is the root of so many of our problems. The ability to love yourself makes you so much in this world.” In other words, stepping into your power isn’t just bold—it’s necessary.

Celebrating Success Is Not Bragging—It’s Leadership 

How many times have you squashed a celebration, minimized a milestone, or refrained from sharing progress—just to avoid appearing boastful? Kim’s vulnerability—posting a proud fitness photo at age 50, despite fearing criticism—sparked not backlash, but a viral wave of positivity and connection. The takeaway? Every time we show up as our fullest selves, we not only own our journey—we encourage others to do the same.

Kim sums it up beautifully:

“When we dim our light, that does nothing for the world. There is enough darkness, enough negativity. The world needs our light.”

How Your Team Can Thrive: Professional Development That Elevates Everyone 

Imagine a workplace where every educator, leader, or staff member is empowered to own their story, lead with authenticity, and foster joy (not shame) in themselves and one another. That’s where Strobel Education’s offerings come in:

• Online Courses: Flexible, research-based trainings that help individuals reframe criticism, build resilience, and claim their own light—from anywhere, at their own pace.
• Keynote Speaking: Inspire your audience with actionable, zero-fluff guidance from Kim herself. These keynotes don’t just motivate—they launch lasting mindshifts around happiness, authenticity, and leadership.
• Live Virtual Teacher Workshops: Whether online or in-person, interactive workshops deliver practical tools, open conversation, and a safe space to step into bolder, more joyful leadership—together.

Kim’s approach gives participants the practical strategies to:

• Transform self-doubt and criticism into confidence and growth
• Embrace self-love as a foundation for career and personal happiness
• Celebrate wins—and encourage others to do the same
• Create team cultures where everyone belongs and every light can shine

Why Now Matters Most 

After years of uncertainty and stress, teams crave real connection, honest celebration, and a sense of meaningful contribution. Professional development that focuses on authenticity, wellbeing, and collaborative growth isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s the difference between burnout and brilliance.

As Kim Strobel reminds us:

“Your playing small does not serve the world. As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”

Ready to Elevate Your Team? 

This is your moment to foster a ripple effect—where one person’s courage inspires the next, and together you build a community where happiness and authentic leadership are the norm.

• Explore Online Courses for personal and team growth
• Book Kim Strobel as a Keynote Speaker and energize your next event
• Bring Live Virtual Workshops to your team for actionable, real-world change

Don’t wait to shine. Let them judge. And let your whole team—and your organization—rise together.

Ready to get started? Visit strobeleducation.com or reach out to discover how you can empower every member of your team to step into their light—and help others shine brighter, too.