Your wellbeing matters, sis: a Black woman's survival guide for navigating and overcoming toxic work environments

Lately, I've been reflecting on the journey and experiences of Black women in the workplace. The immense amount of hate that Angel Reese has experienced touched a nerve in me. It highlights the challenges Black women often encounter in professional environments - for Reese, basketball isn't just a game; it's her livelihood and career. Black women are out here doing our thing and excelling at it. Yet too often, people try to dim our light.?Reese's situation mirrored the experiences of my own bonus daughter, who battled mistreatment throughout her college basketball career.

Unfortunately, the phenomenon isn't exclusive to the sports industry; it's a widespread reality across the entire workforce. Navigating these environments as a Black woman can take a toll on our wellbeing.

The heartbreaking story of Antoinette "Bonnie" Candia-Bailey, who took her own life after enduring relentless torment from her boss, particularly shakes me. I've heard that story before.

Let's be clear, this is not a one-off issue. Women of color, especially Black women, facing oppression and abuse in the workplace is a systemic issue and it is making us unwell. Sadly, it's a reality that doesn't escape Black and POC-led spaces, or those that seemingly fight for social justice (which can cause it's own kind of pain).

As an Audacity & Vision Coach , I've seen too many talented and passionate women, propelled by a deep sense of purpose, encounter unhealthy environments that risk overshadowing their light.

If this is you, you're not alone. And you're not hopeless. I've helped many women confidently advocate for themselves, successfully establish boundaries, and devise even exit plans to move on to bigger and better things. Existing in an environment that persistently undermines your worth can attack your sense of self and send you spiraling. So whether the situation calls for you to audaciously claim your space or leave a toxic environment, finding ways to remain in tune with your inner voice and vision is a vital part of the journey.

Below are some strategies to stay centered and/or find your way back to yourself as you maneuver through tough situations at work.?

1. Seek spaces that affirm you

If you find yourself in a work environment that doesn't fully appreciate or reflect your identity, make a conscious effort to find communities outside of work that celebrate who you are. Embrace spaces that not only recognize but also uplift your identity, talents, and perspectives. For those navigating predominantly white workspaces, seek out the company of other people of color. Support minority-owned businesses, whether it's grabbing a coffee or doing some yoga, and check out spots that vibe with your interests. Actively seek out groups of people who share your quirks, interests, and world views. And dive into the arts scene whenever you can – hit up open mic nights, shows, or cultural events. Places like these can really validate and feed your soul.

2. Surround yourself with anchors

Keep supportive friends and family close. Do. Not. Isolate. Having a trusted confidant you can share with who can also bear witness to your situation can be an essential sounding board. They can remind you who TF you are and reassure you that your feelings and thoughts are completely valid. These connections help keep your feet on the ground, stopping you from falling into a warped view that chips away at your self-worth and taking it as the real deal.

3. Spend time thinking about your vision

Zoom out and get clear about what you want your life to look like. Carve out some time to really dive into what your heart desires. Then ask, is this job or situation in alignment with the vision I have for myself? How can I create more alignment in this situation, or find one that is better for me? (Download my free alignment checklist for help ). Your dreams are valid, they're just waiting for you to catch up.

4. Practice affirmations

Constant exposure to negativity?can make you forget who you are.

Remind yourself that you are that BOSS!?

Pinpoint and write out the negative narratives you are internalizing. Then, create specific affirmations that directly address and flip them.?

Go further and support these affirmations by making a lists of your recent wins, things you're proud of, and traits you like about yourself.?

5. Go to therapy

Being mistreated in a professional setting (just like any other setting) can deeply impact your mental health. Therapy can help you unpack and validate what you're experiencing, while also helping you come up with ways to set boundaries and more.

6. Take some time off

Sometimes you need to get away to truly clear your head, address with your mental health, and figure out a long-term plan. Simone Biles practiced all the audacity when she temporarily stepped away from gymnastics to prioritize her mental well-being, brushing off her critics. Making a move like this embodies strength and commitment to oneself; it is a powerful act of self-love.

Learn more about FMLA and your employer's policies to explore options for an extended and protected time off.

7. Keep the receipts

If you're dealing with something sketchy at work, make sure you keep all the emails, texts, etc. (you can forward them to your personal account in case you lose access to your work email later). Mark down the dates when things happen so you've got a clear timeline. Then, make a formal complaint and/or report. Even if it feels like it's not helpful right away, or no immediate action is taken, formal reports are important to show a history and pattern of certain behavior. This could help someone else down the line, or finally bring the person or place causing trouble to account.

Quick tip: if you've made formal complaints and nothing's been done, that's actually more proof of bad behavior. It's more fuel you that can use to make your case later. I coached a young Black women through being unfairly treated and terminated. She kept track of everything, including formal requests to rectify the situation that went unanswered or denied. Now, she's in mediation with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and looks set to get some financial compensation.

Just a heads-up - if you're speaking your truth about an unhealthy work environment and it falls on deaf ears (or worse, gets you in trouble), that's a red flag, sis. Spoiler alert: it's time to plan an exit.

Remember, you deserve a space that uplifts and supports you.?

8. Leave

Let's be real. If you're dealing with constant negativity or feeling undervalued, that space isn't serving you. I personally have a bias towards creating, uplifting, and flocking to organizations and other spaces that already reflect our values over trying to fix ones that don't, especially when it comes to protecting our well-being.

So whether it's now or later down the line, if the circumstances don't shift, the time might come to make a move (check out my podcast mini series for signs it's time to make a big move ). You deserve to be in places where your light can truly shine and where being your authentic self is celebrated.

If you're stressing about leaving behind work that truly matters to you, know this - there are countless ways to fulfill your purpose and make the mark you're destined to. But one thing you're absolutely not meant to do? Sacrifice your mental well-being for your mission. The two can and should be in alignment.

Worried about money? Start the job hunt now.?Abusers will have you believe that you can’t leave. You can.

Truth be told, these spaces were not created for us. The concept of work as we know it was defined without us at the table, and we're not the only ones it isn't working for.

Chances are, you're not hitting roadblocks because you are falling short, but because you are excelling and pushing back in an environment that wasn't made for you to do so - which is nothing short of revolutionary.

Black women aren't here to fit into the mold; we're here to break it and redefine it. We are at the forefront of this beautiful, audacious movement to transform the way we work, and create spaces where everyone is welcome, valued, and set up to thrive. And it's about time!

But let's not forget, while we're busy changing the game, we've got to keep ourselves in check too. Prioritizing our health and well-being isn't just crucial; it's non-negotiable. Because what's the point of reaching new heights if we're not well enough to enjoy the view?

Special note: While I wrote this from my perspective as a Black woman and pulled from experiences of other Black women, I know that my sisters of color can relate. We're in this together!

--

Found this article helpful/inspiring/affirming?

Leave a tip here .

Share to your page and/or directly with others.

Join my mailing list for more content delivered straight to you.

Make sure we're connected! Send me a connect request.

About the author

Hi ????. My name is Jessica Wernli and I’m an Audacity + Vision Coach. I help changemaking bosses step into their next season with clarity, alignment, & audacity.

Whether you're facing a forced change like losing your job, aiming for a major shift like running for office or starting a business, or seeking to enhance your life by setting boundaries and inviting peace, my visioning process equips you with essential tools. I integrate my process into my 1:1 coaching and group sessions that are perfect for standalone events, conferences, retreats, or leadership programs.

Interested in 1:1 coaching or hosting a session for your team? Contact me .

Check out shehadtheaudacity.com for more.