Stop Running From Yourself
Can we be honest for a minute? Being a Black woman often means existing in a world full of expectations and stereotypes. We've been navigating this space for so long that we've almost accepted the status quo as our "normal." But because of this, how many of us are running from our true selves? 🙋🏾♀️ (It was me for sure!)
We spend so much time trying to keep everybody happy – our families, our communities, society – and we lose ourselves in the process. We're out here chasing dreams, relationships, and lifestyle goals that aren't even ours, molding ourselves to fit into a narrative that wasn't meant for us.
It's time to STOP that shit right now. 🛑 It's time to ask ourselves: Who am I? What do I WANT for my life?
First, let's address the elephant in the room: What are you running from?
As a former track star in these denial streets, I ran from more than I care to admit. It all boiled down to fear. Chile, the way I had to admit I was living in a state of fear ALL the time! 😨 Fear of being seen, fear of not being good enough, fear of people finding out I was different because of the way my mind worked. I was running from the pressure to be the "perfect good girl" so men would see my value and choose me. I was running from the mistakes in my past, running from pain... hell, I was running from the idea of being happy!
Do you see a pattern here? I spent the first 44 years of my life running from myself. All that running did was keep me in a constant state of exhaustion because of the war between the woman the world told me to be and the authentic version of me that was fighting for her existence.
When I finally decided to face my fears and address the "why," I was able to reclaim my narrative.
The world will always try to dim our light because it's easier to control us if we're continuously trying to fit into boxes we never asked to be put in. There's so much power in owning our narratives, but we've been conditioned to give that power away.
Think I'm lying? Just pause long enough to pay attention to what happens when women take ownership over our bodies and sexuality, or when we use our voices to shut shit down, when we implement boundaries and standards, when we demand to be seen and valued. We're villainized, our femininity is attacked, and we're dragged to the pits of hell. There's a reason for that, and it's because of the power in controlling our narratives. Creating cycles of self-doubt keeps us manageable, confused, and quiet.
But it's time we embrace being the badasses we were born to be and stand tall in our dopeness. Let's stop living in a state of confusion and come for what is ours. It's time we break free from those limitations and create a world where Black women can be their full, authentic selves, unapologetically.
Embracing our authenticity? That's a revolutionary act.
When we embrace our authenticity, we challenge the status quo. We show the world that Black women are uniquely made; our strength lies in our vulnerability, our beauty is in our experiences, our dopeness is in our existence, and we are capable of ANYTHING.
We become a beacon for other Black women, especially the younger generation, showing them that it's okay to celebrate their stories, their culture, their individuality. We pave the way for future generations to live their truths without apology. #fightthepower #imablackwomanandimproud (Okay, I may have gone a little too far, but I was on a roll! 😂)
Ready to step into your power?
I get it, though. Generations of masking and conforming are in our DNA. We've been conditioned to make ourselves smaller for the comfort of others, and many of us have no idea where to start. But I got you! Ain't no way I'm gonna serve you all this revolutionary talk and then leave you hanging.
This week, let's commit to taking the first step to embracing our dopeness. We're going to start with some simple journaling, and I'm going to give you some prompts to guide you on this journey of self-discovery.
This week's journal prompts:
Unmasking Myself: If I could shed all the labels and expectations placed upon me by family, society, and culture, who would I be at my core?
Inherited Identities: List the identities you've inherited or adopted from your family, community, and cultural background. Which of these feel authentic to you, and which ones feel like they don't quite fit?
Mirror, Mirror: If you could have an honest conversation with your reflection, what would you say?
Fear Factor: What fears are holding you back from living authentically?
Dream Weaver: Describe your ideal life without any limitations or external pressures.
Boundary Setting: What boundaries do you need to set in your personal and professional life to protect your energy and prioritize your well-being?
Authenticity Affirmations: Write five affirmations that resonate with you and reflect your commitment to embracing your authentic self.
This week’s Affirmations:
I am radiant because my inner light shines brightly.
I am worthy because I exist.
I am powerful because I have overcome challenges.
I am loved because I am deserving of love.
I am capable because I possess the skills and talents to achieve my goals.
I am free because I choose to liberate myself from limiting beliefs.
I am enough because I am perfectly imperfect.
Sis, it's time to stop running from ourselves and lean into our authenticity. Create a sacred space to explore who you truly are—free from judgment, expectations, and fear. Engage with other Black women; share your stories, laughter, and struggles. Remember, embracing your authentic self isn't just a personal journey; it's a revolutionary act. When we stand in our truths, we don't just transform our lives, we inspire those around us to do the same. Let's commit to a path of exploration, acceptance, and empowerment—because in knowing and embracing ourselves, we can truly shine. ✨
