Black Women Are Exhausted!

Hey there friends,

It’s Yolanda here, and today I want to open up about something that’s been weighing heavily on my mind lately. I’ve been talking to my sisters, my friends, and fellow women of color, and there’s a theme that keeps popping up: exhaustion. Exhaustion from the constant struggle with racism and the never-ending effort to love everyone, even those who don’t seem to return the favor.

Now, don’t get me wrong. Loving others and striving for unity is a beautiful thing. It’s something we all should strive for. But let’s face it, for black women, it often feels like a one-way street. Our shoulders bear the weight of not only our own lives and families but also the societal pressure to be the epitome of grace, strength, and forgiveness.

Racism is not an abstract concept; it’s a daily battle. Microaggressions, stereotypes, unequal opportunities in the workplace, or even just those side-eyed glances that feel like a slap in the face. You know what I’m talking about. It all adds up.

And yet, many black women find themselves feeling the need to be the bigger person, to rise above it all, to be the embodiment of love and understanding. We want to educate others, heal wounds, and build bridges. But, friends, this can be downright exhausting.

I’ve seen the toll it’s taken on some of the most incredible women I know. That constant struggle of trying to make others feel comfortable, even when you’re uncomfortable yourself, can be draining. It’s like you’re always on, always the diplomat, always the mediator. It’s a whole other job that you didn’t sign up for, but one you’re expected to perform flawlessly.

So, what’s the solution? Well, I don’t have all the answers, but I do know that it’s vital to recognize our own needs and to prioritize self-care. This is not selfish; it’s necessary for survival. It’s about setting boundaries, finding support from people who truly understand, and taking time for self-reflection and rejuvenation.

And hey, let’s not forget to celebrate ourselves. We are amazing! Our ability to love and our resilience in the face of adversity are things to be proud of. But let’s also give ourselves permission to say, “Enough. I need a break.” It’s more than okay to step back and take care of ourselves.

To my fellow black women, I see you. I feel your exhaustion, and I stand with you. You’re not alone in this journey, and it’s more than okay to take a pause. You deserve it.

As always, thank you for reading, and feel free to share your thoughts and experiences. Let’s keep this conversation going.

With love, Yolanda