When you’re striving to do your best work or be your best self then you’re also more susceptible to pain. The pain of not meeting expectations, of being misunderstood or discovering weaknesses. As Seth Godin said:
“The easiest way to avoid the pain is to lull it to sleep by finding a job that numbs you.”
But being susceptible to pain also means you're susceptible to possibility. The possibility of earning the endless rewards that come with shining your light instead of hiding it.