Theme: Power in Visibility | Week 1 of 12
By Authentically Aries
This is not my first time attempting to read this book.
To my surprise, I was already on Law 11 when I cracked it open again—greeted by a sea of highlighter strokes and inked notes. Words I wanted to define and absorb. Sentences that made me say “Okk!” and helped make past situations click.
Starting this book over reminded me of why I picked it up in the first place—not because one of my favorite rappers read it, but because I wanted to change how I show up for myself. I wanted to regulate my emotions when things get tough. I wanted to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. So, here’s my take on Law 1: Never Outshine the Master.
Initial Reaction: Confusion
Why should I have to dim my light just because someone is my superior or mentor? Isn’t the goal to learn, grow, and eventually level up?
But then that quote came to mind:
“Everyone wants you to do better, just not better than them.”
It’s a sad truth. Sometimes those in power aren’t threatened by your failure—they’re threatened by your potential. Is it fear? Insecurity? Or the realization that someone they once guided might outgrow them?
This law brought me back to my poem Carry What I Carry—the idea that sometimes, just looking like you’re carrying things too well can be a threat.
What I Took From It
To me, this law isn’t about playing small—it’s about playing smart.
It’s not about being less than—it’s about not triggering unnecessary fear.
When you’re “too good,” it forces the master to face where they fall short. And when their back is against the wall, you might become the threat they sacrifice first.
What once made them praise you can become the reason they distance themselves… or worse.
When I Lived This Law
Looking back, I’ve unintentionally used this law to my benefit—but I’ve also seen how it can backfire.
In my first corporate job, I was the new girl from a small Arkansas town, stepping into a big-city role with wide eyes and big energy. I was taken under someone’s wing, exposed to things I probably wasn’t supposed to see or hear—but I soaked it all in.
Then came the shift. A new leader. A new tone. Suddenly, I was the scapegoat. They tried everything to catch me slipping. And when it came down to it? No receipts. Just a “he said, she said” moment that led to my exit. That company? Long gone now.
That moment taught me: never confuse access with immunity.
How I Use This Law Today
These days, this law is always running in the background—at work, in relationships, in life.
It doesn’t make me fake. It makes me aware.
Sometimes, you have to stay mindful. Let the master be your mentor—but keep your personal plans to yourself. Use what they offer, but don’t hand over everything. That way, when the time comes to fly, you can let them think they helped you soar, while knowing deep down… you were always your own wings.
📝 Journal Prompts: Law 1 – Never Outshine the Master
1.
💭 Have you ever dimmed your light—intentionally or not—to protect someone else’s ego?
- What did that moment teach you about visibility, power, or self-worth?
2.
💭 What does “playing smart, not small” look like in your current season of life?
- Are there ways you can protect your peace while still honoring your growth?
3.
💭 Who has served as a “master” or mentor in your life?
- How do you balance gratitude for their guidance with the desire to evolve beyond them?
TheAbundantAries 