There’s nothing quite like the strength, power, and beauty that just radiates off of Black women. Some call it Black girl magic, and it starts with embracing yourself as you are and empowering yourself to be your very best version.
In a world where the odds can sometimes seem stacked against you, taking the initiative to build up your own strength and confidence can help give you an edge for whatever life throws your way.
Here are seven ways that, as a Black woman, you can empower yourself and fill yourself with self-confidence.
1. Believe You’re Worth the Investment
One of the best ways to empower yourself is to invest in yourself. Education is an investment in yourself and your future. When you learn, you are opening up possibilities, and your knowledge becomes a valuable asset to you and your future endeavors.
Your professional career trajectory might require specific educational requirements, but don’t limit your learning just to collegiate pursuits. You can invest your time into learning a new talent, skill, or hobby. Learning, no matter its form, is always empowering.
2. Gain Financial Independence
If you are financially literate, you are setting yourself up for success. When you understand your budget and your cash flow, you can set realistic goals and create a reasonable lifestyle without sacrificing your peace of mind.
Building up your own wealth and becoming a self-made woman is incredibly empowering. Knowing you have saved enough for a rainy day can help you build confidence.
3. Celebrate Your Culture
Whatever your roots, celebrate them. They made you who you are. Honor the traditions that continue to serve you, and create new ones as you forge your own path.
Support Black artists, musicians, writers, and creators. As you celebrate Black life in America, you will feel a kinship with those who are living a shared experience. There’s a lot to be grateful for and find joy in.
4. Prioritize Your Health
When you are healthy, both physically and mentally, you feel better. Make sure that your health gets your full focus. Take the time to eat the nutrients you need and get your body moving.
Do what is needed to keep yourself in a good mental headspace, whether that’s taking time to meditate, going on a daily walk, or scheduling time with your bestie. Nothing is more empowering than taking control of your well-being.
If you are unable to get to a healthy mental state on your own, please consult with a doctor or therapist. Reaching for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a show of strength. You are a necessary force in this world, Sis. We need you in it.
5. Support Your Sisters
It might feel counterintuitive, but you can feel empowered when you help others out. If you provide service or support to your sorority sisters, you will both walk away better off. Show up to their businesses. Collaborate with them on their projects or goals. Celebrate their achievements.
When you show up to support them sporting your Delta Sigma Theta bomber jacket, you are strengthening your sisterhood and empowering yourself.
Just being a member of one of the elite Divine Nine sororities is an accomplishment in itself. Remember how hard you have worked, the good you have done, and the skills you have cultivated just to get to this point. You are a member of a prestigious organization that many women never get the chance to join.
6. Advocate for Others
Work to promote and advocate for diversity in all areas of life, including the workspace, educational institutions, and public leadership. Champion equality, diversity, and representation. Fight for and celebrate what would have made a difference to you as a child, whether that’s seeing a Black woman as a teacher, main movie character, CEO, or president.
7. Reflect on Yourself
Take some time to ponder your personal strengths. Think of the struggles and challenges you have overcome. Looking at how far you have come can help you feel empowered.
After you’ve looked at what you have accomplished, set some more goals. Think about what you hope to accomplish in the future, and set plans into motion to get yourself there.
Take the time to do the things that will leave you feeling empowered and strengthened. The world can always do with a little more Black girl magic.
And remember to love yourself and where you are right now. Empowerment starts with self-love, and you’ve got a whole lot about yourself to love.