Self-Care for Black Women: Thriving in spite of a toxic work place
Navigating a toxic workplace can be overwhelming, especially for Black women who often face additional stressors like microaggressions, bias, and the pressure to overperform. Prioritizing self-care is essential to protecting your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Below, I’m highlighting five key self-care strategies, practical examples, and tools to help you not just survive but thrive!
1. Set Boundaries to Protect Your Energy
One of the most critical self-care practices in a toxic workplace is learning to set and maintain boundaries. A toxic workplace can drain your energy and blur the lines between personal and professional time. What’s not spoken about enough, is the degree to which these effects are amplified for Black women.
Example: If you’re frequently contacted outside of work hours, politely but firmly communicate that you are unavailable after a certain time. Also, set expectations from the beginning by asking questions and making it known that you’re unavailable outside of work. Don’t allow supervisors, etc to intimidate you into accepting this kind of harmful behavior. I address some strategies for how to go about this right here
Solution-Based Tool: Use apps like “Google Calendar“ or “Todoist“ to schedule your work hours and block off time for yourself. Set reminders to help you stick to these boundaries and prevent burnout.
2. Address Microaggressions with Confidence
Microaggressions—subtle, often unintentional discriminatory comments or behaviors—can chip away at your self-esteem over time. Addressing them can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential to stand up for yourself in a way that maintains your peace.
Example: When someone makes a stereotypical remark, calmly respond with, “I know you may not realize it, but that comment can be hurtful. I’d appreciate it if we could avoid these types of generalizations.”
Solution-Based Tool: “The Microaggressions Tracker” is a tool that allows you to log instances of microaggressions, helping you document patterns and responses over time. This can also assist in identifying recurring issues that may need to be escalated to HR.
3. Practice Mindful Stress Management
Mindfulness and stress management techniques are crucial in navigating toxic environments. Practicing mindfulness helps you stay grounded, even in high-pressure situations.
Example: Before entering a tense meeting, take a few moments to breathe deeply, center yourself, and mentally prepare. You can also take short “breath breaks” during your workday to reset.
Solution-Based Tool: Download meditation apps like “Calm” or “Headspace” to guide you through quick mindfulness exercises or breathing techniques. Even a 5-minute daily practice can make a significant difference in managing stress levels.
4. Build a Support System (and vett folks in your circle)
Finding allies in and out of the workplace is critical. Lean on trusted friends, family members, or professional networks of Black women who understand your experience. This community can offer encouragement, perspective, and advice.
Example: Join online support groups, such as “Sister Circle”, where Black women share resources and discuss coping mechanisms for toxic work environments.
Solution-Based Tool: Use platforms like “LinkedIn” to join professional groups like “Black Women Connect” or “Black Career Women’s Network”. These networks provide mentorship opportunities, career advice, and emotional support. Believe it or not, this will go a long way in helping you feel empowered as you navigate these workplace challenges with confidence and more safety.
5. Prioritize Physical and Mental Health
Your well-being should never take a backseat to a toxic job. Whether it’s through regular exercise, therapy, or simply getting enough sleep, maintaining your health is a form of resistance against burnout. For most of my clients, including myself, this can be one of the most challenging aspects of your selfcare journey as a Black woman. This is where strategy and community really come into play.
Example: Set a weekly routine that includes physical activity, even if it’s just a 30-minute walk during your lunch break. Consider speaking with a therapist who specializes in the unique challenges faced by Black women. It’s extremely important to utilize every available resource both in and outside the workplace (i.e. your EAP, etc).
Solution-Based Tool: Use apps like “BetterHelp” for accessible, affordable online therapy sessions, or try “MyFitnessPal” to track your physical activity and nutrition. Both tools can help you stay accountable and prioritize your health, no matter how busy your schedule gets.
Final Thoughts
While navigating a toxic workplace can be challenging, adopting these self-care strategies will help you maintain your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Remember: self-care is not selfish—it’s necessary for survival and success. Whether you’re setting boundaries, addressing microaggressions, or leaning on your community, these tools will empower you to thrive despite workplace toxicity. You can read another helpful post on this topic right here
Something To Think About
Unfortunately, we live in a world that continues to exist under both patriarchy and anti-blackness, but rather than waiting for things to “change” there are strategies, tools, etc that we can use to improve our lives. For Black women, that range is a continuum of selfcare strategies and other tools we can employ to thrive rather than just survive. You deserve to work in an environment where you feel valued and respected. One thing to note? That can also include a literal change of environment and or location. The real question becomes, what’s the best toolkit/ strategy for you. If you need help or guidance with that, click here.
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