At some point, many of us have been told we’re too something. Too intense. Too emotional. Too loud. Too ambitious. It’s as if the very traits that fuel our success become liabilities the moment they make others uncomfortable.
For years, I tried to soften myself to fit in. I toned things down, stayed agreeable and worried that being passionate about my work would come across as overbearing. Spoiler alert: it never felt authentic — and it certainly didn’t serve my goals.
Now, I embrace the “too much” label as a badge of honor.
As a woman in a leadership role in the events and hospitality industry, I’ve come to learn that the passion, energy and high standards I bring to the table are actually my greatest strengths. When I get excited about a new partnership, a creative menu or a unique experience for a client — it’s not “too much.” It’s the reason people trust me to bring their visions to life. These qualities are not flaws to be managed, but assets to be celebrated.
And I know I’m not alone. Salt Lake is full of incredible women who bring bold energy to everything they do. They’re running businesses, leading teams, raising families, mentoring others and driving change in our community. They’re not asking for permission to take up space — they’re claiming it. Every time I connect with another woman who is boldly and authentically herself, I leave feeling more grounded, more inspired, and more unapologetically motivated to keep showing up as my full self.
One of the most powerful parts of my journey has been finding a community of women who truly get it. We don’t pretend everything runs smoothly all the time — we talk openly about the real stuff. The imposter syndrome. The tightrope of work-life balance. The moments where advocating for ourselves feels more exhausting than empowering. Whether over coffee, in professional circles or during local events, these conversations are reminders that none of us are navigating this alone.
The truth is, when women support each other in professional spaces, we amplify everything — from our confidence to our creativity. And that’s not just feel-good fluff — it’s good business. When we lead with authenticity, we build stronger relationships with clients, partners and teams. We make more thoughtful decisions. We innovate more fearlessly. That energy? It’s contagious — in the best way.
So here’s what I want to say to anyone who’s ever been told to dial it down: Don’t.
Don’t shrink to fit a mold that was never made for you. Don’t apologize for your ambition, your voice or your enthusiasm. Don’t trade your spark for someone else’s comfort. Those traits you’ve been told to quiet? They’re likely the very things that will carry you to the next level.
You’re not too much. You’re just enough.
And the more we show up fully — leading with fire in our bellies and purpose in our hearts — the more we give others permission to do the same.
Let’s keep raising the bar, lifting each other up and redefining what leadership looks like in Salt Lake City and beyond.
About Isabelle Caiozzo, Catering & Events Designer, Cuisine Unlimited Catering & Special Events
Isabell Caiozzo is in love with all things food. When she’s not designing catered events for others, you’ll find her in her kitchen cooking. Outside of the office, she’s traveling, exploring the outdoors and hot air ballooning – she’s a certified crew member and licensed student pilot! She puts her whole heart into everything she does!
*Any reference obtained from this blog to a specific initiative, issue or topic does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the Salt Lake Chamber. The views and opinions expressed in this blog do not necessarily reflect those of the Salt Lake Chamber.
