stand in one's own light
To take a position which is harmful to one's own interests.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“You stand in your own light by refusing this great job offer.”
“He is a talented musician, but by constantly missing rehearsals, he is really standing in his own light.”
“By rejecting the advice of his most loyal mentors, the young executive stood in his own light and ensured his eventual professional downfall.”
- 01
abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
- 07
air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026