# stand in one's own light

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/stand-in-ones-own-light
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To take a position which is harmful to one's own interests.

## Examples

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.