Corporate Girlies Take Care
Most of my career has been spent working as a creative from behind the chair as a makeup and hair artist on set to doing nails in spa’s and salons. Now in my 3rd career pivot I’m in both beauty and wellness as a manger in a corporate environment. I have staff, I make schedules, I interview candidates, I meet with other members of leadership about the in’s and out’s of the business. I love the work I do but ya’ll it can be so exhausting… engaging with people, their personalities, putting out fires, communicating professionally, and advocating to be seen and heard all in one work day takes a lot out of me.
As a black woman it’s even more taxing because I’m the ONLY black woman in leadership in my company and many days I feel isolated. When I talk with my friends, and read stories I’m learning this is something many black women go through and it’s crazy because how are we all in different places but experiencing the same damn things!
Now that I’ve gotten a little older and a lot wiser I’ve come to know that taking care of myself is the priority especially when it comes to work. I’m grateful I get to express myself and and be in purpose but I will not let these people stress me out! I’ve come to discover a few things and here they are below.
Unless it’s an emergency I am unavailable if I am not on the clock.
No more powering through illness or discomfort. If I am not well I will take the time I need to recover.
Cordial and professional are non-negotiable or else don’t talk to me.
No Ego’s allowed! I have great ideas, I know what I’m capable of and I have no problem doing the work or asking questions or for help when I need it.
Cliques are weird are not most of us 30 +? I talk to whoever is kind to me.
Oh I got PTO I’ll be taking that, thank you!
Lastly I bring all my accomplishments to the table and ask for the raise because I deserve it.