My favorite lesson of 2015 is a concept new to me, Shine Theory. The concept is simple: “I don’t shine if you don’t shine”. The idea behind shine theory is to encourage women to revel in the success of other women instead of foster feelings of jealousy and inadequacy.
Most women can understand and relate to the feeling of competition between women. The Beyonce song Flawless eloquently explained the sense of competition instilled in women from a young age. The idea that there are only a few spots available for successful, beautiful women causes an unfortunate chain reaction of women seeking to destroy the next woman in an effort to build herself up. Shine Theory works to turn the feeling of competition into pride and empowerment.
I first heard of Shine Theory while listening to one of my favorite podcasts, Call Your Girlfriend. CYG is pro woman podcast that led by two intelligent and articulate women, Aminatou Sow and Anne Friedmen. The podcast brings thoughtful and often humors commentary on current events and life from the female perspective. The ladies of CYG often promote Shine Theory. If you are looking for a great example of Shine Theory of motion I suggest you listen to Call Your Girlfriend.
Take away for the day: Allow another woman's shine to warm your path! Bask on the shine of all of the great women doing wonderful things around you! Use it as motivation to push forward and carry other women with you!