Giving Ourselves Flowers: Celebrating Our Worth

I'm inspired to talk about an essential aspect of self-care that we often overlook: giving ourselves flowers. In other words, recognizing our successes and valuing our worth, even when facing challenges.

My journey recently intersected with an incredible CEO and an advisor whose insights I deeply value. We share common ground, not just in our professional pursuits but also as women of color navigating a landscape riddled with self-doubt and the ever-present specter of imposter syndrome. Her wisdom was simple and profound: "You've been planting seeds and growing a garden with all your hard work. It's time to give them to yourself." This advice reminded me to take a moment and celebrate my achievements.

This need for self-recognition was further emphasized when a friend gifted me a bracelet during the holidays, boldly inscribed with: "Remember who the f*ck you are." It's a powerful affirmation of my resilience, significant after a year of professional and personal challenges, and why I should thank myself and acknowledge my accomplishments. I've been wearing the bracelet since I received it.

This realization of self-appreciation became even more significant after recently hearing Niecy Nash's compelling acceptance speech at the Emmy Awards. Her words: "And you know who I want to thank? I want to thank me—for believing in me and doing what they said I could not do. And I want to say to myself in front of all you beautiful people, 'Go on girl with your bad self. You did that,'" resonates with a deep sense of self-acknowledgment.

Her dedication to the award to "every Black and brown woman who has gone unheard, yet overpoliced" struck a particularly personal chord. In my own experiences, I've noticed how, depending on the audience, my opinions and ideas are sometimes dismissed or overlooked. It is a common experience for Black and brown women to have their voices and achievements marginalized or altogether ignored. Despite significant contributions to business, their efforts are often overlooked or devalued due to systemic biases and discrimination. This pattern of exclusion can have a profound impact on women of color, diminishing their sense of self-worth and making it more challenging to achieve their goals.

Nash's speech beautifully captures the essence of self-appreciation. It underscores the importance of acknowledging our achievements, especially amidst the unique adversities and societal challenges we face. It's a reminder that our victories, no matter their size, are worthy of celebration and that it's more than okay to sometimes 'brag' about our achievements. It isn't about arrogance but rightfully claiming our space and the recognition we deserve.

I also found inspiration in Snoop Dogg's speech when he received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also emphasized the importance of acknowledging the work needed as an individual to succeed.

I want to thank myself for having no days off. I want to thank me for never quitting. I want to thank me for always being a giver and trying to give more than I receive.

Watch the 30-second clip below.

Let's take a moment to reflect on our journeys and give ourselves the flowers we so richly deserve. Let's encourage and support others to do the same, fostering an environment where self-recognition is celebrated and shared.

Here's to nurturing our gardens with love, pride, and a healthy dose of self-recognition. We're all growing and flourishing together, one day at a time.

You are deserving of every accolade and every flower. Give them to yourself, and continue to bloom, shine, and let the world see the magnificence of your brilliance!