In the BAM (Bust A Move) and unBAM of our fast-paced lives, it can be easy to undervalue the significance of cultivating sisterhood relationships. For women, these relationships can serve as powerful allies, mentors, and friends. But here’s the twist: not all these relationships are meant to be lifelong bonds. Some, in fact, are seasonal. Let’s explore the intriguing world of sisterhood relationships, uncover why some are seasonal, and provide three key ways to foster these connections while discussing how to recover when things don’t go as planned.
The Seasonality of Relationships
Imagine your life as a garden, with various people representing different types of flowers. Some relationships are perennial, blooming year after year, while others are seasonal, bringing bursts of color and vibrancy for a specific time. Relationships often fall into the latter category. They might enter your life during a particular phase, providing essential support, guidance, and camaraderie, but eventually, their season in your life may come to an end.
1. Embrace the Essence of Seasonality
Just like seasons change in nature, so do the seasons of our lives. When it comes to relationships, embracing the essence of seasonality is crucial. Recognize that not all connections are meant to last forever, and that’s perfectly fine. I say to women, don’t view relationships like a ‘group hug’ because everyone can not and will not go with you. Some friendships serve as stepping stones, helping you navigate through a specific chapter of your life. Once their purpose is fulfilled, it doesn’t have to be a falling out or fight; it’s ok to let them go gracefully.
2. Foster Growth and Empowerment
While seasonal relationships might not last a lifetime, they can profoundly impact your personal and professional growth. These connections often serve as mirrors, reflecting your strengths and areas for improvement. They can empower you to step out of your comfort zone, offer new perspectives, and provide the support you need during crucial phases of your journey.
3. Cherish the Memories
Just because a relationship has a season doesn’t mean it lacks significance. Cherish the memories, lessons, and experiences shared during that time. These bonds contribute to the tapestry of your life, enriching your story and making you who you are. Remember that even if the relationship fades, its impact on you remains.
3 Strategies for Cultivating Relationships
Now that we’ve unpacked the seasonal nature of relationships, let’s delve into three essential strategies for cultivating and nurturing these connections:
1. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
In today’s hyper-connected and digital world, it’s easy to accumulate a vast network of acquaintances. However, when it comes to real relationships, quality always trumps quantity. I often say my circle is small but it runs deep. Focus on a select few individuals who truly resonate with your values, goals, and aspirations. Invest your time and energy in these relationships, and you’ll find that the depth of connection and support they provide is incomparable. Maven, you don’t need a big circle to make it make sense.
2. Make Time for Meaningful Interactions
As entrepreneurs and executives, our schedules can be jam-packed with meetings, deadlines, and responsibilities. You know, the BAM life. Nevertheless, it’s essential to carve out time for meaningful interactions with your connections. Schedule regular catch-ups, whether they’re in-person, over the phone, or via video call. These moments of connection are the threads that weave strong bonds. My business besties and I have a strong text chain where all kinds of things happen – support, knowledge, encouragement, and most importantly PURE FOOLERY!
3. Support and Celebrate Each Other’s Success
In the world of high-performing women, success can sometimes feel isolating. Sisterhood relationships can be a lifeline during these times. Support and celebrate each other’s achievements, big and small. Whether it’s a new business venture, a promotion, or a personal milestone, being there for one another fosters a sense of solidarity and empowerment.
When Things Go Wrong: How to Recover
Relationships can encounter rough patches or even dissolve. Here’s how to navigate and recover from such situations:
1. Open and Honest Communication
If you sense a strain in the relationship or a misunderstanding has occurred, don’t let it fester. Engage in open and honest communication. Express your feelings, concerns, and intentions, and be prepared to listen. Often, simply addressing the issue can lead to resolution and deeper understanding.
2. Reflect and Learn
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a sisterhood relationship or connection may come to an end. Take this as an opportunity to reflect and learn. What did you gain from the connection? What lessons can you carry forward into future relationships? Use this experience as a stepping stone to personal growth.
3. Seek Closure and Gratitude
When a close connection reaches its natural conclusion, seek closure with gratitude. Express your appreciation for the time spent together and the support received. Closure allows both parties to move forward with a sense of closure and positive memories. It can be done.
Check out this podcast episode with my guest, Dr. Nina, aka BeautifulBrwnBabyDol, as we dive deeper into talking about real relationships and navigating the journey. We always touch on lots of angles on topic and have the most fun doing it. Podcast link
You can also learn how these powerful connections can support you in being more accountable with an accountability partner. Read as Shalyce Tyson shares 5 Reasons Why You Need An Accountability Partner or Group, and I say she is probably already in your rolodex.
In the world of women entrepreneurs and corporate executives, relationships can be a source of immense value, support, and growth. Embrace the seasonality of these connections, cultivate them with care, and know that even if some are meant to be temporary, they can leave an indelible mark on your journey. Cherish the moments, nurture the connections, and let them empower you in your pursuit of creating success with saneness.
In the face of adversity, some individuals crumble, while others rise above the challenges, seemingly unscathed. The key to this remarkable ability lies in resilience—the power to bounce back from setbacks, to adapt, and to grow stronger. Resilience is not a trait exclusive to a fortunate few; it is a skill anyone can cultivate. If you need to work on your resilience muscles, I’m sharing some insight to do so in this blog.
I had the opportunity to share about resilience with high school students in a college-prep program at Duke University this summer through National Student Leadership Conference. During this topic session, I was thrilled to see how engaged students were and the sincere questions that were asked about how to be more resilient.
1. Understanding Resilience
Resilience can be defined as the ability to recover and thrive in the face of adversity. It is not about avoiding difficulties but confronting them head-on with determination and an unwavering spirit. Life is going to deal us all some challenges, obstacles, and failures. Resilient individuals possess a mindset that allows them to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Understand that setbacks are temporary and believe in your ability to overcome them. Resilience is a skill that can be honed through self-awareness, positive thinking, and adopting a growth mindset. Through your failures, you are building your resilience muscles.
2. The Benefits of Resilience
Resilience offers numerous benefits that extend beyond overcoming obstacles. Firstly, it fosters mental and emotional well-being. Resilient individuals are better equipped to manage stress, adapt to change, and maintain a positive outlook, leading to improved overall mental health. Additionally, resilience empowers you to persevere in the pursuit of your goals and dreams. The benefit of not giving up easily only serves to fuel your determination. You will tend to have stronger relationships as you exhibit empathy, problem-solving skills, and the ability to provide support to others during challenging times.
3. Cultivating Resilience
Fortunately, resilience is not an innate quality; it can be developed and strengthened over time. Keep building that muscle. One effective way to cultivate resilience is by building a support network of family, friends, or mentors who provide encouragement and guidance. Seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling, can also be beneficial. Developing effective coping mechanisms, such as practicing mindfulness, engaging in regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can also enhance resilience. Focusing on solutions rather than problems and learning from past experiences are key strategies for building resilience.
4. Real-life Examples
The world is filled with inspiring stories of individuals who have displayed extraordinary resilience. Consider the story of Michelle Obama, the first African American First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama faced intense scrutiny and racial bias. However, she used her platform to advocate for education, health, and equality. Despite the challenges and public scrutiny, My Forever First Lady exhibited grace, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. She shares more resilient stories in her uplifting book, The Light We Carry. I know you have amazing connections in your life displaying resilience in their everyday lives, take notes!
.
Resilience is a potent force that empowers you to rise above challenges, adapt to change, and lead a fulfilling life. It is a skill that can be developed by anyone willing to embrace its transformative power. By cultivating resilience, you can navigate life’s ups and downs with greater ease, maintain a positive outlook, and achieve our goals. Remember, setbacks are not the end; they are merely stepping stones on the path to success. Embrace resilience, unlock your potential to thrive, and do your BAM (Bust A Move) Thang!
Summer is a season that is often associated with fun, relaxation, and adventure. However, amidst all the excitement and outdoor activities, it’s important for women to prioritize their self-care. Self-care is all about taking care of your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. I’m sharing 5 ways to stay intentional about YOU to ensure you are taking care of yourself even in the summer season.
1. Get outside and enjoy nature
Summertime is the perfect season to get outside and soak up some vitamin D. Spending time in nature has been proven to have a positive impact on mental health and it is great for hormone health. Even just a short walk outside can help reduce stress and anxiety. Set the alarm on your phone for a morning (or anytime you can get it in) walk to explore a local park, go for a hike, or spend a day at the beach. Everyone, black women included, make sure to wear sunscreen. Melanin can burn also.
2. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and being aware of your thoughts and feelings. It’s a powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Summer can be a busy time, with lots of social events and activities. It’s important to take a break from the chaos and check in with yourself. Consider practicing mindfulness meditation or simply taking a few deep breaths throughout the day. Mindfulness can help you stay grounded and focused, even during the busiest of days. Rewatch this episode from Dr. Selena sharing the power of mindfulness from the Success with Saneness podcast.
3. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for your physical and mental well-being. During the summer months, it’s especially important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, make you feel hungry (when you are not) and even heat stroke. Make sure to carry a water bottle with you wherever you go and try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. If you’re not a fan of plain water, try infusing it with fresh fruit or herbs for a delicious and refreshing twist. I even drink my water out of a wine glass at times, it tastes ‘fancier’.
4. Take a break from technology
Technology has become a huge part of our daily lives, and it can be difficult to disconnect. However, taking a break from technology can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health. Social media and the constant barrage of notifications can be overwhelming, and it’s important to give your brain a break. Consider taking a day (or even just a few hours) to unplug and disconnect. Use this time to focus on self-care activities like reading, journaling, napping or taking a relaxing bath.
5. Get plenty of rest
Summer can be a busy time, with lots of social events and late nights. However, getting enough rest is crucial for your physical and mental well-being. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and even depression. Make sure to prioritize rest and relaxation, even if that means saying no to some social events (and everyone will be just fine). Aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule.
I’ve been learning more about Chinese Medicine from my Acupuncturist as we work through rebalancing my hormones. You might find this article from The Frank Magazine useful as it shares some additional perspectives on self-care during the summer season. Read here.
By prioritizing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, you can make the most out of this season of fun and adventure. So, get outside, practice mindfulness, stay hydrated, take a break from technology, and get plenty of rest. You deserve it!
Now ease on into summertime WITH self-care. We are not going to abandon our harmony, our balance, just because the sun is out and our arms are out! Lol
Creating balance or work-life harmony is always a work in motion. Life is in motion. We are in motion. A healthy and fulfilled life includes a spiritual well-being that supports your balance. It entails understanding our values, beliefs, and life purpose, as well as connecting with something bigger than ourselves. It is a sense of harmony with oneself and the world around us. Here are some strategies for achieving spiritual well-being and balance in our lives.
1. Meditation and Mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness can help us achieve spiritual well-being and balance. They help us to calm our minds, focus our thoughts, and connect with our inner selves. Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can lead to improved mental clarity, emotional stability, and reduced stress levels.
2. Gratitude: Practicing gratitude is an essential part of achieving spiritual well-being and balance. It is the act of recognizing and appreciating the good things in our lives. It helps us to focus on the positive aspects of life and cultivate a sense of contentment and satisfaction.
3. Connecting with Nature: Nature has a powerful impact on our spiritual well-being. Spending time in nature, whether it’s going for a walk in the park, hiking, or simply sitting outside and enjoying the beauty of the world around us, can be a deeply spiritual experience. It can help us connect with the natural world, which can provide a sense of peace and tranquility.
4. Service to Others: Engaging in service to others is another way to achieve spiritual well-being and balance. It involves giving back to our communities and helping those in need. It can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and help us to connect with something greater than ourselves.
5. Self-Reflection: Taking time for self-reflection is essential for achieving spiritual well-being and balance. It involves looking inward and examining our thoughts, emotions, and actions. It can help us to identify areas of our lives that need improvement and to develop a deeper understanding of our values and beliefs.
6. Mind-Body Practices: Mind-body practices such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong can help us achieve spiritual well-being and balance. These practices combine physical movement with meditation and mindfulness, helping us to connect with our bodies and our inner selves.
7. Creative Expression: Creative expression is another way to achieve spiritual well-being and balance. It involves engaging in creative activities such as painting, writing, or music. It can provide a sense of fulfillment and help us to connect with our inner selves.
8. Spiritual Practices: Engaging in spiritual practices such as prayer, worship, or attending religious services can help us achieve spiritual well-being and balance. These practices provide a sense of community and connection with something greater than ourselves.
9. Cultivate Positive Relationships: Positive relationships can help us achieve spiritual well-being and balance. Surrounding ourselves with people who support and encourage us can provide a sense of love and belonging, which is essential for our overall well-being.
10. Letting Go: Letting go of negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are essential for achieving spiritual well-being and balance. It involves releasing the things that no longer serve us and focusing on the present moment. It can provide a sense of freedom and allow us to connect with our inner selves.
When you achieve spiritual wellness, you have made peace with your life. You look atobstacles as opportunities and know that no matter what happens, it is all a part of the journey. This mindset allows you to be flexible and adaptable, solving problems as they arise. Gain more insight into your spiritual wellness from Tony Robbins in his featured article on Keys to Your Spiritual Wellness.
Maven, achieving spiritual well-being and balance involves connecting with our inner selves, developing a sense of purpose and meaning, and creating a connection with something greater than ourselves. It is essential for our overall well-being and can help us to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. By practicing meditation, mindfulness, gratitude, connecting with nature, engaging in service to others, self-reflection, mind-body practices, creative expression, spiritual practices, cultivating positive relationships, and letting go, we can achieve spiritual well-being and balance in our lives. Keep going.
“The work is not skippable™.” ~ Maven Miara
Check out the video or audio of my episode with Pastor Erick Hoskin, Sr., as he shares insight and his ‘Triple C’ of maintaining your spiritual well-being.
Hi there! I'm Maven’ Miara. I'm a Hope Curator & Confidence Cultivator who works with high-achieving, purpose pursuing baddies to help them move from STUCK to EXECUTION in creating the lifestyle they desire.
Hi there! I'm Maven’ Miara. I'm a Hope Curator & Confidence Cultivator who works with high-achieving, purpose pursuing baddies to help them move from STUCK to EXECUTION in creating the lifestyle they desire.