4: “For Melanated Women: Lit but Burned Out”

The world requires the leadership of melanated women, but at what cost? This chapter examines the frequent challenges that many, if not most, melanated women face in the demanding role of leadership and how to make a solid pivot. History has shown that melanated women have carried corporations, households and even nations on our backs, to the point of burnout. How does burnout affect the average woman, one might ask? It can cause resentment, poor judgment, depression, failed relationships, hopelessness and lack of productivity and energy. Well, mix those things with the racism and sexism that melanated women face daily and it is a sure receipt for disaster. The Urban Dictionary now refers to the word lit as “of excellence” and I would have to wholeheartedly agree that melanated women are just that—lit! However, while we might be the model of pure excellence, we are surely becoming the textbook definition of “burnout.” Self-care is one critical key element that can assist in combatting the development of burnout. Melanated women deserve to start putting themselves at the forefront of excellence again.