You deserve a pause, too.
A gentle reminder to make room for rest, release the guilt, and give yourself a little care.
Brittony Wise
10/2/20261 min read
Let’s be honest: sometimes we sit down to rest, and our minds start listing everything we haven’t finished.
The laundry. The messages. That idea we meant to work on. Somebody needs something, and somehow our own needs get pushed to tomorrow.
If that sounds familiar, take a breath with me.
You deserve a pause, too.
There’s room for you on your own list
For Black women who are used to being called “the strong one,” asking for a break can feel uncomfortable. People get used to us figuring it out, showing up, and making things happen. But we deserve care and support along the way.
And whoever you are, if you’ve been carrying a lot lately, there’s room for you in this conversation.
You can love your family, care about your work, and have big goals while still needing a quiet moment.
Start with a pause that fits your day
Maybe you don’t have an entire afternoon to yourself. What could you make room for?
Drink your tea while it’s still warm. Sit outside for a few minutes. Ask someone to take one task off your hands. Let a nonurgent message wait until you have the energy to answer.
Your pause doesn’t have to look impressive. It just needs to give you a little room.
Put some of it on the page
Grab a notebook, open your digital journal, or use whatever paper is nearby. You don’t need pretty handwriting or the perfect words.
Start here:
• What has been asking the most of me lately?
• What do I need that I keep putting off?
• What could wait, and what could I ask someone to help with?
Write what’s true, even if it’s only a sentence. You don’t have to solve everything you write down today.
A little permission for this week
Choose one small way to care for yourself before the week gets away from you. Something you can actually fit into your life.
Let this be your reminder: your needs belong in the plans you make.
With love,
Brittony
