Too often, in an effort to combat society’s stereotypes of us and appear as non-threatening as possible we apologize for things like our ambition, our independence, our hair, our body shape, our looks, our opinions — the list goes on. But ladies, enough is enough.
Having an Opinion
The
“angry Black woman” stereotype doesn’t seem like it’s going away so
just do you boo. Speak your mind respectfully and say what you’re
feeling even if others don’t like it.
Being Ambitious
People
will try to tell you that you can only achieve so much as a woman of
color—don't listen to them. Barrel right through that and never say
sorry about working your behind off.
Saying No
Newsflash:
being a Black woman is not synonymous with being a yes man. We pride
ourselves on being helpers and providers for everybody (and their mama),
but it’s completely okay to take a step back and say “No” sometimes.
Your Success
Chances
are you've gotten at least one comment implying that you've only gotten
what you have because of some sort of handout or “system.” But remember
you've gotten to where you are because you worked hard and don't let
people tell you otherwise.
Not Wearing Makeup
You
don’t have to shun cosmetics or fight the urge to get dolled up and
slay, but there is something horribly wrong with believing that you owe
the world an apology every time you don’t look photo-shoot ready.
Your Curves (Or Lack of Curves)
Every size is beautiful! And let’s be completely real, Black women slay regardless of pants size.
Your Sub-Par Cooking Skills
Excuse
me, but we don’t exist just to be Susie homemaker. If you can throw
down in the kitchen snaps to you. If not don’t apologize for ordering
takeout or only volunteering to bake the cornbread at Thanksgiving.
Dating Outside of Your Race
Love is love. Don’t miss your blessing trying to hold on to some outdated love codes.
Going Natural
It's
unfortunate wanting to wear your hair just as it grows out of your head
garners so much scrutiny and unnecessary—and BS—comments about
“unprofessionalism,” but keep rocking that twist out with pride.
Not Wanting to Go Natural
On the flip side, let’s not apologize for proudly rocking a sew-in or a freshly relaxed do either.
Needing Alone Time
It's
understandable and essential to maintaining sanity—not selfish. You
only have one life and the only person that is always going to be there
is yourself. Always make sure that you are happy and okay.
Not Wanting Children
Somewhere,
somehow we got the rep of being baby-crazed, nurturers. Not always
true. When it comes to kids, one size does not fit all and that’s
perfectly fine. Never feel the need to justify your reasons for wanting
to just be the “cool aunt” forever.
Having Feelings
The
world might think we’re cold and abrasive, but we get emotional too.
And hey, it’s natural! Cry. Laugh. Smile. Yell. Whatever you’re feeling,
let it show.
Splurging on Shoes
Or bags. Or jewelry. You see it. You want it. Work hard and grind 'til you own it.
Your Obsession with Male Celebs
So
what if you spend your evenings fantasizing about Idris Elba and
Michael B. Jordan and planning your dream wedding via Pinterest. Doesn’t
everyone?
Watching Reality TV
Sure
they don’t always paint our sistas in the best light, but it can be
hard to avoid all together. Everyone has their guilty pleasures and if
yours is ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ or ‘Love and Hip Hop,’ then so be
it.
Being You. Being Us.
Need we say more?