Getting Black to Business Pt. I

Getting Black to Business Pt. I

June 4th, 2020

By: Madinah Ashamu


Hi everyone, we are writing today full of mixed emotions. I  knew I wanted to share a post this week but I was unsure how to approach everything going around right now. So as in my nature, I put it off. I put off creating and writing. I put it off because it felt unnatural to continue on, business as usual, while the world was set ablaze. BUT I finally found my voice, so strap in, this will be a little bit of a longer post. But I promise you it is worth the read. You ready?


People across the globe are saying enough. Black people are unifying against injustice. We are saying we want to be recognized. We are demanding to be heard. The passion and unity is magnificent. It is inspiring. We will not stop until lasting change is achieved.


Because of this global outrage, everywhere you turn you are confronted by the many ways in which the system in place falls short. All this information, oftentimes graphic, does become overwhelming. It is especially overwhelming if you experience these injustices firsthand and then are subjected to constant reminders. It can become too much. It makes work even more difficult.


I want to highlight the ways we can take care of ourselves while also making a difference where we can. Especially as businesswomen, as creators and contributors, we have to safeguard our wellness. Take time to get back to the things that give you hope.

Disconnect. & Recharge. 


Allow others to carry the burden of activism, if only for a day. It makes for a better you, which will, in turn, help your business and help us on our road to justice. We need to do our best to make it there together while prioritizing our mental wellbeing, our physical health, and our spirit.


As a businesswoman missing even one day of potential marketing, planning or building can feel like a loss. But it is okay to take a break. Yes, I said it. I am here to tell you to REST. 

Get the support you need to come back stronger.


Here’s how:


  • Seek Mental Wellness Support: Connect with professionals who can directly provide you with support or connect you to resources. Practice mindfulness, explore yoga, and prayer. Find what works for you and hold on to it.

  • Here are some resources to check out:

    Headspace 

    Liberate

    CBT Thought Record Diary

    PTSD Coach

    eMoods


    Stella's Place 


    Taibu Community Health Centre


    Good2talk


    Distress Centers of Greater Toronto


  • Social Media Fast. Unplug for a day or two or a few hours, whatever you can manage.


  • Increase the Good Vibes 

  • Increase your time outside beneath the sun (Get the vitamin D)! Increase your time spent talking with loved ones, dancing, singing, and eating your favourite foods. Focus on getting those endorphins and reward hormones up. Focus on feeling good.



  • Think Long Term:  

  • Contribute in ways that are sustainable. I have a feeling this fight for justice will be a long one. The risk for burnout and compassion fatigue coupled with pandemic fatigue is real! The Canadian Mental Health Association has already reported an increase in the need for support. I will link some great resources below, please use them. Donate what you are comfortable with.


  • Speak UP
  • Now more than ever, we are truly realizing the power in our voices. Use them. Speak up. If you need support, tell somebody. If you found a good resource, share it. If you have an idea, or a perspective on how we can make this world a better place. Use your platform. Speak on it.

    Here are some funds that you can donate to:

     

    The Innocent Project  

    #JusticeForBreonna 

    Run with Maud

    #justiceforRegisKorchinskiPaquet


    #BlackLivesMatter 


    Color of Change 


    There are people who count on us for services and products. If not for them, we need to think about how we are needed in the fight for liberation. None among us are free until all are free, and that's a fact. 


    Until next time all 

    Keep fighting, stay beautiful,


    Madinah



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