Exhausted Ain't the Word

"You can't pour from an empty cup—take time to refill."

A serene moment of relaxation as a woman embraces self-care in a comfortable bathrobe, her face glistening with a refreshing facial treatment.

I recently found myself at the doctor’s office, battling what felt like flu-like symptoms and an overwhelming wave of fatigue. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I went through the motions: appointment, tests, and the inevitable waiting for results. To my surprise, I tested negative for everything. But what I didn’t expect was the diagnosis that followed. It wasn’t a flu or any other illness—it was exhaustion. The kind that comes from pushing yourself too hard and neglecting the one thing you can’t afford to overlook: self-care.

For months, I thought I was doing everything right. I started working out, cut back on sugar and processed foods, created content, went to work, and focused on school. From the outside, it all seemed perfect. I was checking all the boxes, convinced that I was finally taking control of my life. But here’s the catch—none of that matters if you’re not taking care of yourself in the process.

This experience isn’t unique to me. It’s a reality many Black women face: juggling multiple roles, trying to be everything to everyone, and leaving our own well-being at the bottom of the priority list. We’re often so busy doing, accomplishing, and holding it all together that we forget to pause and take care of ourselves in every aspect—mind, body, and soul.

Black women and girls, in particular, are tired. Exhausted, even. We carry so much, but at what cost? The weight of our responsibilities, our dreams, and our communities often leaves little room for rest. And while society may not always acknowledge it, the truth is that the exhaustion we feel is real—and it’s time we give ourselves permission to acknowledge it too.

It’s time to change the narrative. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Your health, both physical and mental, should always be a top priority. If you’re constantly running on empty, something will eventually give. So, let’s start taking the time to rest, recharge, and truly listen to our bodies. Because no matter how strong we are, we all need a moment to breathe.