As a seasoned professional in corporate America, I’ve achieved what many would consider the pinnacle of success: multiple promotions, a multi-six-figure salary, and significant leadership opportunities. Yet, despite these accomplishments, I find myself grappling with an insidious challenge that many women, especially black women, face in the workplace—imposter syndrome and isolation.
The Burden of Being Heard
Being the only black woman in my role at this level brings a unique set of pressures. Every time I speak up in a meeting, I am acutely aware of the weight of my words. There’s an expectation that my perspective must be flawless, representative, and groundbreaking. This pressure can create an unnecessary burden and sometimes lead to resentment. The fear of being overshadowed or dismissed is ever-present, making it a delicate balance between ensuring my voice is heard and not dominating the conversation to the point of alienation.
The Dilemma of Authenticity
Revealing too much of my authentic self has, in the past, led to retaliation. I can vividly recall asking for a raise that I rightfully deserved and being told, to my face, "Who the fuck do you think you are?" The sting of those words has never left me; they are with me as much today as they were in 2016. Those words led to this constant need to balance being confident but not arrogant, strong-willed but appearing coachable, and intentional without appearing narrow-minded, all of which have created a mental gymnastics routine that is exhausting. It’s an overwhelming and isolating experience that many women at work can relate to. The struggle to maintain this balance while remaining true to oneself is a daily challenge.
The Emotional Dumping Ground
Another layer to this struggle is becoming the emotional dumping ground for colleagues. I don't know if it's intentional, subconscious, or psychological, but black women notoriously become a source of refuge. Sidebar: I was watching a podcast clip discussing Ben Carson, a neurosurgeon who discussed the impact of carrying the trauma of 15 generations. His academia focused on studying the enduring effects of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism that have been passed down through generations. This concept encapsulates the idea that the experiences and traumas of ancestors can profoundly affect the mental, emotional, and social well-being of their descendants. This clip got me thinking: what if white people carry a similar trauma? What if, just like during slavery, when black women were relied upon to provide nurture and sometimes nurse their children, subconsciously, we continue to refuge? What if that trauma has never left?
Navigating turbulent waters with a level head often makes me the go-to person for others needing to vent. While it’s flattering to be seen as a source of strength, it can quickly become overwhelming. The weight of others’ struggles adds to my own, and finding a place to unload my professional burdens becomes increasingly difficult.
Finding Solace in Solitude
In the face of these challenges, I’ve learned the importance of taking a step back. Working from home has become a necessary reprieve. It’s an opportunity to avoid the daily pressures of being “that person” in the office. It’s okay to sit silently in meetings without feeling pressured to speak. Silence doesn’t equate to disengagement or anger; sometimes, it’s a form of self-preservation.
The Power of Saying No
One of the most liberating lessons I’ve learned is the power of saying no with intention. Not every opportunity is a real opportunity—sometimes, it’s just more work. Understanding and embracing this has allowed me to prioritize my mental health and well-being over the never-ending quest for professional advancement.
A Message of Encouragement
To all the women who find themselves in similar shoes, I want you to feel my compassion and understanding. Your experiences are valid, and your feelings are real. It’s okay to take a step back and protect your mental and emotional well-being. Work from home when you need to. Sit silently in meetings if that’s what it takes to maintain your peace. Say no without guilt or explanation. Your worth is not measured by how much you take on but by the quality of the work you do and the authenticity you bring to it.
We’re in this together, navigating a corporate landscape that wasn’t built with us in mind but which we continue to shape with our presence and perseverance. Trust in yourself and your journey. You are not alone, and you are enough.
In solidarity,
Amirah
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