by Krystle Barrington on March 22, 2023
With Women’s History Month in full swing, it not only has me thinking about the legacy of black women who have come before me, but how to truly show up for the things I’m passionate about.
I may be biased, but there’s something special about dope black women setting the standard for greatness in rooms where no one else looks like them. Day in and day out black women are creating their history, and that can be the story for you and me as well.
The greatest thing about contributing to our culture and society is that we get to decide what success looks like for us. While we all have a purpose, simply calling ourselves creatives does not guarantee our ideas will become our legacy.
If only it were that simple, right?
No, it takes more than hopeful wishes to bring to fruition. Here are four ways to build your legacy while leaving your mark on this world.
Be prayerful: It’s not enough to have a passion for something. We also need the wisdom to know when to move and how to show up for ourselves. Prayer opens the door for God to reveal the what, the how, and the when. Whatever goals and dreams live in your heart, put some prayers on them and take God along with you on your journey.
Be intentional: God’s word says, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). We can talk about what we’re going to do, but until we put in work, every dream we have will remain just that, a dream. Being more intentional may not look the same for us all. However, we can agree that it requires time management, resilience, and confidence, which are within our reach if we’re willing to do the work.
Be patient: One thing I’ve learned is that perspective is everything. It’s easy to still be in your head while being productive. Some days comparison will have you in a chokehold, and feeling like you’re not moving fast enough. However, be patient with yourself and give yourself the gift of grace as you find your way, switch gears, or find yourself starting yet again.
Be innovative: You don’t have to do something exactly like someone else to leave your mark on this world. Sometimes the best thing we can do is to trust our intuition. Instead of following a trend, create it. Achieving something that has yet to be done can be scary, but trust that God is with you as you enter the unknown.
Real talk, it won’t always be easy. There will be setbacks along the way, but I’ve learned from reading the stories of women who have come before us and those creating their lanes today that history does not exist without remaining resilient.
Establishing a legacy will take continuous prayers, dedication, an immense amount of patience, and remaining authentic to your unique vision.
But, sis, you got this!
So again, don’t just dream about it, be about it.
The world is waiting!