Every Day, I'm Hustlin' 💰
#WednesdayWisdom
"Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of someone else." —Judy Garland
Morning Musings
For the first time in my life, I have bags under my eyes. I’d like to think it’s because I’m getting older, but as we all know, #BlackDontCrack. The actual culprit? Too much stress and not enough sleep. Or, to paraphrase the prolific rapper Future (insert sarcasm here), “too much hustle.”
Despite my personal belief in monogamous relationships, I’m definitely polyamorous when it comes to work.
Even when I was a full-time journalist, I had (and still have) a side-hustle as a blogger and freelance writer. Not only does this afford me multiple streams of income (journalism and nonprofits aren’t exactly the most lucrative careers), but blogging and freelancing provide me with the freedom to write about what I want to write about and discuss topics that are passionate to me.
But, alas, it appears as though I may have gone overboard on the hustling (again): staying up late, waking up early, working through lunch breaks all in the name of meeting deadlines, conducting interviews and also getting my regular work done (you know, the one that actually pays the bills). That in addition to regular life, working out, catching up with family and friends, plus quality time with hubs … all within 24 hours. It's too much.
There’s this constant pressure in our society to work harder and do more, but at what cost? My mental, physical and emotional health? Hard pass. Less memories with the people I truly care about? No, thanks. Yes, there are some things we have to do, but ask yourself this: how many of those things do you actually want to do? And would it be the end of the world if you didn’t do them? My guess is probably not … so ditch it.
If it doesn’t bring you joy or happiness, or if it’s not absolutely essential to your success, don’t do it. Less really is more. And starting today, I’m taking back my life and stepping down the hustle. Because the struggle is real, y’all.
Love,
L'Oreal
P.s. If you happen to be in Chicago this weekend, look for me at the Women's March in Grant Park! I'll be the disgruntled Black girl, most likely in purple.
Links I Love
You win some, you lose some. Here's how to let go of toxic friendships.
Work smarter, not harder this year with these tips.
How to professionally cancel plans without burning bridges ... because we've all been there.
Does your resume need an upgrade? Check out these free templates from Canva.
My Latest Obsession
Over the weekend, my sister (who happens to be an engineering major and high school math teacher) and I went to see Hidden Figures. It. Was. EVERYTHING! For those of you who don't know, Hidden Figures is the movie adaptation of the book by the same name about three incredibly intelligent Black women -- Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson -- who worked for NASA during the launch of astronaut John Glenn. Their strength, grit and resilience in the face of blatant racism and sexism is truly inspiring. This movie is full of #BlackGirlMagic and I am all the way here for it because as we all know, #RepresentationMatters.
Now Hiring
Intern for CRWN Magazine
Writers for Bustle
Podcast Producer for Apple
Writing Fellowship for The American Prospect
Social Media Producer for HelloGiggles
Well, that's all folks. I hope you enjoyed this of LT in the City Weekly! Hit me up on the Interwebs below or simply click "reply" to tell me what you think. Thanks a bunches!