Embracing Grief and Questioning Societal Norms
Experiencing grief is universal, yet deeply personal. Losing my grandmother in March 2022 was a profound turning point for me. Her absence made me reassess many aspects of my life, including the societal expectations surrounding productivity and overworking. Our culture often glorifies relentless hustle, particularly for marginalized communities. We are told that our worth is tied to our output, leading many of us to push through our pain, neglecting our emotional well-being.
I began to question these norms, realizing that sitting with and honoring our emotions is not a sign of weakness but a necessity for our well-being. Grieving takes time, and it’s okay to slow down and feel. This realization brought me face-to-face with the challenges of learning to be compassionate with myself and the importance of setting boundaries.
The Vitality of Boundaries and the Power of Saying No
Setting boundaries has never been my strong suit. Over-committing to projects and responsibilities seemed like the norm, but over time, it took a toll on my mental and physical health. Saying no feels uncomfortable, especially when societal pressures push us to always say yes, often at the cost of our well-being.
I reflected on the countless unpaid or low-paid projects I have taken on, particularly as a woman of color in academia. The expectation to do more for less is pervasive, and it’s time we confront and reject it. Fair compensation is not a privilege but a right. Learning to say no is a form of self-respect and an act of resistance against a system that exploits our labor.
Rest as Resistance
In the past year, the concept of rest has taken on a new meaning for me. Rest is revolutionary. It stands in opposition to the toxic productivity that society demands. Particularly for marginalized communities, rest is a powerful act of self-care and resistance. It’s about reclaiming our time and energies for our healing and growth.
The loss of my grandmother accelerated my journey towards understanding the need for rest. Grieving her taught me to slow down and take the time to process my emotions. This has had a profound impact on how I approach life and work now. I only engage in projects and relationships that genuinely resonate with me and align with my values. This selectiveness is not selfish; it’s crucial for my overall well-being.
Honoring Relationships
Reflecting on my grandmother’s passing also led me to reassess my relationships. Her death made me appreciate the people who genuinely support and uplift me. Equally important is recognizing those who drain my energy and stepping away from them.
Not everyone in our lives has our best interests at heart, and that’s okay. What matters is honoring the bonds that are nourishing and letting go of those that aren’t. It’s about creating a supportive environment where we can thrive, not just survive.
Spiritual Growth and Ancestral Healing
Over the past year, my spiritual growth has become a cornerstone of my healing process. Engaging in community and ceremonial practices has provided me with a sense of clarity and connection to my ancestors. Their wisdom and strength have become guiding lights in my journey. Embracing these traditions has offered me solace and a deeper understanding of my place in the world.
Inner Growth and the Messiness of Healing
Personal and professional growth doesn’t come easy. It involves facing our fears and embracing vulnerability. The healing journey is often messy and uncomfortable, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Through this process, I have learned the importance of prioritizing self-care and healing practices. Inner growth is not just about bettering oneself but becoming a better human being for others.
I am immensely grateful for the support I have received along the way. Being part of the podcast community and sharing these reflections has been a source of strength and pride for me. As I continue my journey, I look forward to growing together with all of you who listen and support each other.
Embracing Self-Compassion
Grieving for my grandmother, questioning societal norms, setting boundaries, and recognizing the importance of rest have been pivotal in my journey toward self-compassion. Each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. As we navigate life’s challenges, let us commit to being kinder to ourselves, honoring our emotions, and setting boundaries that protect our well-being. Together, we can create a supportive and nourishing environment for all.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. If you found value in this reflection, please consider leaving a five-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, engage in the comments, and share our episodes. Additionally, I encourage you to check out my other podcast, “Dismantling Diet Culture,” and remember, I offer a free 30-minute coaching session for those who leave a review on Apple Podcasts and follow me on social media.
