Prior to the pandemic I was really worried about the grind culture we were living amidst. It seemed like happiness was an elusive concept, especially for people of color. It was like we didn’t feel we had the latitude to pursue joy, and we actually celebrated overworking ourselves. I was honestly worried. Mental health and wellness had just started to be prioritized but it had not taken center stage pre-pandemic. Grinding – working ourselves at unhealthy paces and levels – in hopes that our work ethic would counteract the racist tropes about us is exhausting, and unproductive. Lately I have become more hopeful. Let me tell you why.
I hear people of color talking more about pursuing peace more often than grinding themselves into the ground.
I see black and brown people opting out more often, and prioritizing their own well-being as opposed to opting in to other people’s opinions of them.
I see traditionally marginalized people seeking work life balance and centering themselves more than over working and over booking themselves, even if it means shifting jobs or careers.
I see and hear people of Latinx and black diasporas naming joy as a goal more than ever before.
I am definitely celebrating this trend towards wellness, especially for people who look like me. Its refreshing to see us give ourselves permission to center us. Even though we always knew it was important, we are now organizing our lives so that we can connect to self. I see more brown people working out, eating better, and politely declining so they can rest. And I am overjoyed.
I hope that this trend continues and we don’t lose the importance of centering our focus on our own health and wellness. I am glad because it pays dividends for us and it is setting the next generation up nicely.
I see the younger generation naming when they are tired and taking the opportunity to pause, instead of pushing themselves relentlessly.
I see them shrinking their circles to prioritize authentic relationships and being kinder to themselves and investing less in validation from others.
I see them making the connections between their wellness and the wellness of the community.
I see them identifying and avoiding toxic behaviors. It’s refreshing.
This trend of black and brown people prioritizing self-care means we are making space to connect to self and work towards a healthier life. It makes me smile. People say we are our ancestors wildest dreams, I think wellness honors all their sacrifices and takes us one step closer to mental freedom.
