DON’T Let Them See You Sweat!
This had to be the most hot and humid weather I’ve ever experienced. Dallas, TX. Smack in the middle of July. I had signed up for an impromptu OUTDOOR photo shoot, and layered that with my dumb decision to wear this ALL BLACK outfit what was I thinking?!) All I can think of when I see this picture is how I was dripping sweaty, and couldn’t wait to get back to the air conditioned comfort waiting for me in my rental car. I’d learned a few things to help prepare for the heat like deodorant wipes, but I wasn’t prepared for the reality. It was so hot that I forgot to change to the from my travel-friendly jewelry to the accessories I planned…well, except for this beautiful Ankara clutch that my big sis gifted me. 💚🤍💚
So listen… there will be situations/experiences/people (no matter how strong you are) that will make you feel so small, disrespected and demeaned, ... over and over and over again. Sometimes it’s such a toxic experience, you feel like a piece of dirt stuck on the bottom of a giants foot when you got stepped on the first time, but you can’t get off and you’re smushed every step it takes. Sometimes the reality is you can’t stop or change the situation or person’s behavior - or trying to do so wouldn’t even be worth your time or energy. I’ve been there and have considered lashing back/out “professionally” (yes, there’s such a thing!). But instead:
1) Surround yourself with people you can be vulnerable with, who know your worth and your strength, and will remind you of it when you aren’t feeling it, and don’t think you can’t keep pushing through.
2) Keep a playlist of music that helps calms you down/shakes you out of it so you can clear your mind and not be too focused on how the situation is making you feel (my favorite Worship). When you’re able to let go, your mind will be clearer to find wisdom & inspiration on how to move ahead.
3) Pray or Meditate. I have to confess it’s not always my first reaction as it should be, but spilling my heart out to God also helps me sit in my feelings and then shift me away from them.
4) Share your experiences with others. It’s okay not to always be or feel strong. You just might inspire someone who needs to know that in order to push through their challenges.
5) Give others some grace (although some people just don’t deserve it) but at those times, remember this…”When given the choice between being right and being kind, be kind.” Side note: If you’ve not yet seen the movie Wonder, it’s a great one - for the kids and adults alike.
On this one crazy day, held myself over by working outdoors while stuffing my face with a heap of chocolate chip cookies, then took a solo trip to the In N Out drive-thru when I finally finished working right before 11pm (15 hours!)
6) Be good to yourself and give yourself some grace too! If it helps, allow yourself moments to be all up in your feelings, cry if you need to and be vulnerable (you’re only human), but don’t stay there too long. You WILL figure out how to pick yourself back up and keep moving!
Keep your head up, have a restful weekend and a greatest possible remaining of July! 💛