Looking for some resolutions for Latinas? Keep reading for Ana’s tips.
Well, we are again at the beginning of a new year and trying to create a list of goals, resolutions, and expectations that will be asked of us once again. For me, the start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to try to reflect on the good and the bad, the highs and the lows, and see how I can become a better person.
How many times have we done the typical “New Year, New Me!” or “El lunes empiezo la dieta,” “I’ll start the diet on Monday”?
Like many Latinas, I’ve struggled to find ways to navigate cultural traditions, societal expectations, family obligations, and career goals while making space for self-care. We are always divided in so many ways that making that space for self-care is nearly impossible; however, with time and work toward self-love, you can start making that space for yourself.
Here are a few tips I’ve embraced to step into the new year with purpose and harmony.
Set Boundaries at Work
Like many, I grew up with the “échale ganas” mentality, always striving to give my all. For the first time in my professional career, my boss is also a Latina and just having her as my new mentor has given me the inspiration and support to go above and beyond the “échale ganas” mentality. Fascinating enough, this journey has led us to connect in many ways in which we both push each other to continue striving but also remind each other about setting boundaries by admitting when we need a break.
For example, I have been working on my time management to ensure I can make time on my calendar for personal moments, whether it’s time to write my next article or staying up late to catch up on some reality TV shows. Protecting your time helps you show up stronger in all areas of your life.
Make Time for Self-Care
Over these past couple of years, as I have seen my overall health become impacted by stress, negativity, and other bad journeys, I’ve realized that setting boundaries isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a form of self-respect. I am still learning to say “no” to unrealistic expectations and “sí” to putting myself first. It is still a work in progress, but I am getting better at this part.
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s a must! For me, this can mean reading a book by a Latinx author, having a little extrovert moment by attending an event with my fellow collaborators, or simply taking a couple of extra minutes in the shower before starting my day. Make sure this is one of the biggest areas you work on because making time for you will lead to better and bigger things.
Lean on Your Support Network
Latinas are used to carrying the world on their shoulders because that’s what we have always been taught to do. However, we have to admit that we’re stronger when we lean on others. You have to build your village and get those tias, tios, and everyone to be your main supporters. My rides or dies from the PTA, my family, and close friends are my village; they are my pillars of support. Whether it’s a quick call to my mamá or a group text with Kelly and Soraya who understand the juggle, I know I don’t have to do it all alone.
Finding those who are in your corner and embracing those connections can make a difference in your life. What matters is not to lose yourself going above and beyond when you know that others are there to help you reach those same goals while also helping you keep your sanity.
Celebrate the Small Wins
Every win is a win! No matter how small or how big your accomplishment is, don’t stop celebrating it. My biggest celebration was arriving at PTA meetings 5 minutes before starting or finally taking my vitamins for a full week straight.
Celebrating small wins leads to positivity and strength, which gives us the self-love we need. It is important to ensure this upcoming year we celebrate all the good we are doing for ourselves, so the good we do in our jobs, for our families, and in our community can be even better.
Honor Your Journey
The biggest tip I can offer this year and every year is to ALWAYS HONOR YOUR JOURNEY. Never forget the journey you have embraced and the ways you have gone around to find a proper balance and not lose yourself. A journey is just a time that we go through, but it is not our final destination. It’s not about perfection but about doing your best with what you have. Balancing family, work, and self-care isn’t easy, but it is a testimony of the resilience and fuerza that we Latinas have in our blood.
Somos podesoras, somos emprendedoras, y somos mujeres! Let’s start the year with love, patience, and healing because we owe that to ourselves.
