You Can Start From the Bottom and Still Overcome Any Obstacle
As March and Women's History Month are drawing to a close I want to reflect on the many obstacles and challenges that women, and Black women in particular, have overcome over the decades. It's incredible to think that despite everything, women somehow find ways to rise above and break barriers every single day.
At the beginning of the month, we find that there's a lot of noise and acknowledgments that transpire, but as the days go on, it's business as usual. I find that the same happens during Black History Month. But that's not to say that we can't celebrate ourselves and encourage ourselves throughout the year. Because if "they" don't want to do it, ain't nobody stopping us from doing it.
And just in case you're wondering why it's important to be reminded of our accomplishments, I know you don't, but for the odd guy that will read this, it's because it strengthens our belief in knowing that we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Exposure gives way to a childlike faith making what may actually be a "longshot" appear so attainable that there's no doubt that achieving our dreams is possible.
Issa Rae’s Big Dream.
An example of such a big and wild dream come true is the recent 8-figure deal that Issa Rae recently signed with Warner Media as covered in Variety Magazine. Yes, that's 8 figures as in a minimum of $10,000,0000! Numbers like these may get thrown around in Hollywood from time to time, but when you consider where Issa Rae started, Sis there's no denying the grandeur of this deal.
From a web series on YouTube to HBO to her own media production company to that production company signing a 5-year deal that is life-changing, to say the least. Literally, "started from the bottom now we're here". But don't get it twisted. Overcoming and/or breaking barriers doesn't always come with glitz and glamour. And that doesn't make the miracle any less worthy.
Sometimes overcoming is graduating college or even high school against all odds. It's making it outta the hood alive and being able to provide your children with a safe and comfortable way of life. It's making it out of an abusive relationship alive and having the courage to love again. Whatever you've overcome, pat yourself on the back and recognize the fire and resilience in you that never gave up.
But if you're reading this and you're thinking to yourself that you haven't overcome the situation you're in, or you haven't overcome the hurdles on your way to pursuing your dream, or you haven't overcome the battle in your mind to believe that you're not only able but worth it; I got you.
Step in the ring.
For starters, the fact that you recognize that there's even something to overcome is huge. Think about it, how many people have died not realizing that their drug addiction was one that they needed to overcome? Entering the ring and facing your obstacle is the first step in any fight.
[Also Related: Feeling Completely Over It? Here’s How the Power of a Decision can Overcome That]
Start Believing.
Next, you have to believe that it's even possible. Watch documentaries, read books, read articles. Equip yourself with so much data and facts to know that if others could do it, you can too. If you want to take it a step further, message the people whose story you identify with. Social media has made "access" to people that were once so elusive, so easy. A DM may or may not be responded to, but I'm sure an email address can be found somewhere on the internet. Share your story, what you're trying to overcome, and why you're reaching out to them, and you just may be surprised. Being coached through your battle certainly helps you believe.
Set Goals.
Lastly, set attainable goals for yourselves which you can incrementally increase in scope and or difficulty. In my Instagram post below I mentioned in the caption that you eat an elephant "one bite at a time". Issa Rae in 2011 wasn't too worried about what her Warner Media deal was going to look like. No, back then producing and making sure her Web series "The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl" was Live on YouTube every month was the challenge that needed to be overcome.
Likewise, start off with a goal that you can reasonably achieve. Getting those wins under your belt will build your confidence to then tackle bigger goals, and so on and so worth. Rome wasn't built in a day. And think about it...Issa's journey is over 10 years in the making.
Conclusion.
In conclusion, we as Black Women are some incredible Bad Mama Jamas and can overcome anything we put our minds to. Throughout history, we see how despite oppression and racism and adversity of all kinds, our cream rises to the top. You're not alone on this journey as you stand on the shoulders of greatness. And just like those that came before, you too can reach your goals and live the life of your dreams.
The journey may be long, the journey may be hard, but the journey will certainly be worth it for you and those that come up behind you. Take a page out of Issa's book, and embrace what may appear to make you awkward, because it's also the very thing that makes you awesome. You got this Sis! ♥