Self-Love and Empowerment in the Black Community: A Modern Renaissance
Black women have always been a driving force for change, resilience, and innovation. Yet, despite making up 7.4% of the U.S. population, a presence in executive leadership roles remains shockingly low at just 1.4%.
But we aren’t waiting for seats at the table anymore - a study by GoDaddy (a company that provides online domain names, and virtual tools) shows that Black women are the fastest growing group of small business owners, representing 10% of entrepreneurs in the U.S.
Redefining beauty standards
In terms of representation, the beauty industry is particularly off-balance - Black women spend over $7 billion annually on cosmetic products, yet only 2.5% of beauty brands are owned by Black leaders. This small but growing number of beauty brands are challenging industry norms, redefining beauty standards, and creating products specifically tailored to the needs of Black women.
As an example, check out the Non-Toxic Black Beauty Project, which maintains a database of non-toxic Black-owned beauty products. The project is guided by a diverse advisory group including women leaders of Clean Beauty for Black Girls, and Black Women for Wellness. We can feel better when we use these beauty products in our care regimens, and support small businesses that prioritize our good health.
Practicing Self-Love
Caring for ourselves is an act of love, and strengthens the emotional resilience necessary to motivate and energize us to move toward our goals. It also gives us the energy and enthusiasm to build healthy relationships with others.
Loving and caring for ourselves includes paying attention to what we eat, how we exercise to feel good, and both of these help us to get the sleep we need to build on positivity.
We have different ways of building and maintaining this positivity. Some people reach in with meditation, and self-affirmations, and others reach out to friends and family. It is so important to find space in the world where we can let our guard down, relax, and feel safe. Develop that zone - be it a candle in the corner of the home, a table with supportive friends at a favorite coffee shop, or a phone call with your person.
Remembering to care for ourselves is integral to navigating the world. Remember, you are not alone, I am ready to connect and hold space for you.
Krystal Clear Mind
Krystal Clear Mind (KCM) is a private mental health firm based in San Diego, California, that offers individual, couples, and family therapy for women. Founded by Krystalynn Williams, LMFT, KCM specializes in helping women, particularly Black and non-Black women of color, navigate womanhood and motherhood in all seasons.
Visit krystalclearmind.com to learn more and explore opportunities to improve your healing journey.
