Welcome To Friday! 📆

Seems like we’re still waiting to exhale…….

The good women over at the Exhale app ( who are doing the Lord’s work) recently surveyed over “1005 Black Women nationwide and 53% of them said they don’t believe their current work environment provides supportive resources for them.” -Exhale App

We’re not surprised, just still processing that nobody is coming to save us yet again.

Personally, I didn’t even know what psychological safety was nor that I needed it until about three years ago. That was when I first heard the term. As a Black woman, have you ever felt your stomach churn before speaking up in a meeting or sharing an idea with your colleagues? It’s a sign that you lacked psychological safety at that moment in that enviornment. You're not alone. Far too many Black women experience a lack of psychological safety in their work environments, which not only hinders their well-being but also limits the potential of their teams and organizations.

“Psychological safety is the belief that one can speak up, take risks, and be vulnerable without fear of negative consequences. When Black women don't feel safe at work, they are less likely to share their ideas, challenge the status quo, or bring their full selves to their roles. This lack of safety leads to toxic cultures, disengagement, and reduced innovation.”

The journey begins with Acceptance. Black women need to feel accepted for who they are, without having to conform to stereotypes or suppress their authentic selves. This means creating spaces where they can share their experiences, perspectives, and concerns without fear of judgment or retribution. Building on acceptance, organizations must cultivate Belonging. We should feel like they are an integral part of their teams, with equal opportunities for growth, development, and advancement. This requires intentional efforts to address systemic barriers, provide mentorship and sponsorship, and celebrate the contributions of Black women.

Compassion is another critical component of psychological safety. When colleagues and leaders show empathy, understanding, and support for the unique challenges faced by Black women, it fosters a sense of trust and belonging.

Empowerment is the final piece of the puzzle. We should feel empowered to take risks, challenge the status quo, and drive change within their organizations. This means providing them with the resources, support, and autonomy they need to succeed, while also amplifying their voices and ideas.

Creating psychologically safe workplaces for Black women is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey. It requires a sustained commitment from individuals, teams, and organizations to prioritize the well-being and success of Black women. Our workspaces should be human spaces, where every act of kindness, moment of understanding, and gesture of inclusivity contributes to a culture where Black women can thrive.

The benefits of psychological safety go far beyond individual well-being. When Black women feel safe to bring their full selves to work, they are more engaged, productive, and innovative. Everybody wins! They are more likely to stay with their organizations, refer other talented individuals, and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

So what can be done? For Black women, rest is revolutionary and self-care is the ultimate form of self-preservation.

The report "The State of Self-Care for Black Women" by EXHALE highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by Black women in the United States. The survey, which included 1,005 Black women from various age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds, found that racial trauma, stereotypes, and discrimination are significant contributors to Black women's stress in both their professional and personal lives.

The report emphasizes the need for more well-being tools and resources tailored specifically to support Black women's mental health and emotional well-being, with 77% of respondents expressing this sentiment. The survey also reveals that Black women prioritize mental self-care 21 percentage points more than physical self-care, underlining the importance of reducing stress among this demographic.

Furthermore, the survey found that 66% of Black women overexert themselves to excel in the workplace and manage personal responsibilities. The report also reveals that one in two Black women believe that today's work environments do not provide safe spaces for them to share their feelings and discuss their stresses.

So back to what we should do… To thrive in their working environments, Black women can consider the following strategies:

💎Seek out mentors and sponsors: Identify and connect with experienced professionals, particularly other Black women, who can provide guidance, support, and advocacy for career growth and advancement.

💎 Build a strong support network: Cultivate relationships with colleagues, friends, and family members who can offer emotional support, advice, and encouragement.

💎 Practice self-care: Prioritize mental and physical well-being by engaging in activities that reduce stress, such as meditation, exercise, therapy, and hobbies.

💎 Set boundaries: Clearly communicate expectations and limits in the workplace to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout.

💎 Continuously develop skills: Invest in personal and professional development through training, workshops, and educational opportunities to enhance expertise and maintain a competitive edge.

💎 Celebrate and share your wins: Acknowledge and celebrate personal and professional accomplishments to maintain motivation and inspire others. Document and save all receipts.

💎 Develop a side hustle or entrepreneurial venture: Consider starting a business or freelance project aligned with your passions and skills. This can provide an additional source of income, as well as a sense of control and fulfillment outside of the traditional workplace.

💎 Prioritize mental health through alternative therapies: Explore non-traditional mental health practices, such as art therapy, music therapy, or mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. These approaches can complement conventional therapy and provide unique outlets for processing stress and trauma.

💎Create or join a mastermind group: Form or participate in a group of like-minded Black women professionals who meet regularly to share ideas, provide accountability, and offer mutual support in achieving personal and professional goals.

 💎Develop a strong personal brand: Cultivate a unique personal brand that showcases your strengths, values, and expertise outside of where you work. This can be achieved through consistent messaging across social media platforms, personal websites and portfolio building, and networking events. A strong personal brand can lead to new opportunities, expanded possibilities, and increased recognition within your industry.

💎 Prioritize financial wellness: Engage in financial education and planning to ensure long-term stability and independence. This may include working with a financial advisor, creating a budget, investing in assets, and developing multiple streams of income. Financial security can provide a greater sense of control and flexibility in navigating career decisions.

The report also found that a lot of Black women don’t know the resources and tools available to them, so we wanted to share a list with you. These are just a few examples of the many valuable tools and resources created by and for Black women. It's essential to explore and find the resources that best resonate with your individual self-care needs and goals.

1. Therapy for Black Girls: Founded by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, this online platform offers a directory of licensed mental health professionals who specialize in working with Black women, as well as a podcast discussing various mental health topics.

2. The Loveland Foundation: Created by activist Rachel Cargle, this organization provides financial assistance to Black women and girls seeking therapy and promotes mental health education and awareness.

3. Black Girl In Om: Founded by Lauren Ash, this platform offers meditation and wellness resources designed for Black women, including a podcast, blog, and online community.

4. My Founder Story: This online community, founded by Melissa Butler, connects and supports Black women entrepreneurs through resources, events, and networking opportunities.

5. The Memo: Founded by Minda Harts, this career development platform provides resources, training, and tools to help women of color advance in their careers and navigate workplace challenges.

6. GirlTrek: This nonprofit organization, founded by T. Morgan Dixon and Vanessa Garrison, encourages Black women to prioritize their health through walking campaigns, community events, and health education.

7. Black Women's Health Imperative: This national nonprofit organization, led by President and CEO Linda Goler Blount, focuses on advancing health equity for Black women through policy, advocacy, education, and research.

8. The Safe Place: This mental health app, created by Jasmin Pierre, provides a safe space for the Black community to discuss mental health issues and access resources.

9. The Colored Girl: Founded by Victory Jones and Tori Elizabeth, this lifestyle brand and online community celebrates and empowers Black women through content, events, and products.

10. Black Female Founders: This organization, co-founded by Erin Horne McKinney and Melissa Bradley, supports Black women entrepreneurs through resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

As you can see we have a lot to say and a deep reverence for rest and revolution for Black women to do less and yet still get more. We believe self-care and wellness to so important for our lives. It’s basically a lifeline. Do you have the self-care tools and resources that you need? I know you’re a top performer and high achiever, but whats your rest ethic like?

#ICYMI

For us by us! A few words from Black women in tech to encourage, inspire, and empower you.

Where are Black women outperforming everyone else financially? According to MSNBC, these are the top 25 cities where Black women ti win and be financially successful, and here are the 25 worst.

Since when was DEIB such a dirty word? - When they took affirmation action, that gave them full license to strip “diversity” from everything. Check out what Bloomberg thinks in the YouTube video about how diversity became a dirty word in Corporate America.

6 tips to get your next raise - Wanna get paid more? You don’t necessarily have to do more. You need to be more strategic and increase your visibility. Check out these tips to help you get a bigger bag.

Prioritizing self-care after a layoff - Here are a few tips and resources to help you take care of your whole self after a layoff. 1) Practice self-compassion 2) Quitting an interview when it doesn’t align 3)Define your own definition of happiness

Need help negotiating - Listen you get what you ask for. Here are some proven strategies, specifically for women of color within a fifty-page resource to help you negotiate your next brand deal or your next salary.

The pros and cons of side hustling - Whether it’s a side business or a side job the business of having something on the side while working is really booming. This 21Ninety article outlines the good, the bad, and the ugly about getting to another bag.

What if you could unlock your full potential and start thriving in your life and career? Well, you can with our first career journal designed for us and by us! Are you ready to take charge of your professional and personal growth journey? Introducing The Climb Career Journal ©, meticulously designed to empower women like you to soar to new heights in both your personal and professional journey! Get Yours Today

#FTW

Here’s a list of Bloomology-approved companies with remote jobs that are hiring this week #techistillhiring 🏢

Write is looking for a Strategic Sales Leader

Jama Software is looking for a Community Manager

Circle needs to hire a Technical Writer

Bixal is looking for a Product Management Lead

Appen is looking for a Product Marketing Manager

Microsoft is looking for a Creative Strategist

#BTW

Today is always a great day to level up or upskill in work or in life 👩🏾‍💻

Black Women Talk Tech is hosting a free, empowering networking event InnovateHER X Workday in Atlanta

Miss EmpowHer Still I Rise: Women Supporting Women Event is on Thursday, March 28th at Shopify NY in Soho 🎉

Master AI for free next year with these Generative AI courses

#IYKYK

These are some of our very best Bloom Report issues. Check out some of the most read Bloomletters and let us know what you think….

💅🏾 The Bloom Report 23 - [Love, Bloomology] - The Jordan Issue #23, How To Ask Better Interview Questions, Understanding Self Worth, Salary Negotiation Tips, Scripts For DM'ing Recruiters, More Remote Jobs, AND So Much More

💅🏾 The Bloom Report 10 - [Bloomology] Leaderships L's & Lessons From Lizzo's Lawsuit, Talk Nice To Me And To You, Job Search Tips & Resources, How Answers For Common Interview Questions, Who's Still Hiring In Tech, Networking Tips, Upskilling Resources, So Much More

💅🏾The Bloom Report 11 - [Bloomology] Were You In The Girl Boss Era?, Tips To Get Your Next $20K Plus Raise, Job Search Strategies, BaddieCon Recap, Tips For A LinkedIn Level Up, Who's Still Hiring In Tech? , So Much More

💅🏾The Bloom Report 6 - [Bloomology] When Was Your Last OOO, How To Stop Doubting Your Skills Today, What Black Women Can Do About Salary Transparency, How To Create Your Next Signature-Convo Starting Look, And So Much More

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