Francine Houston is the author of "Lupus Journey" and she has a number of businesses: Cineik Media, FH DESIGNS , and It Works. Francine is also a graduate of
School of the Bible 2 (2013 ).
Email Francine at [email protected].
SPIRITUALITY AND FAITH
Superwomen do not like to be average (like anyone wants to be average). So she excels at one thing and wants to excel at another (nothing wrong with that). When you don’t reach excellence in an area you are striving for, self-worth is destroyed because we place our worth in what we do and not who Christ has called us to become. Many put their self-worth in their achievements, being productive and not in God.
We were taught to be strong but we are human; if you cut me, I bleed. Black woman are portrayed to be very heroic but at the same time, not allowed to show any signs of weakness. Many black people suffer in silence, in depression to the point of suicide. From the stereotypes of black women in the past, society depicts us in a negative light; however God sees us as His daughters.
Here are some tips to overcome superwoman syndrome:
1. Put yourself first (from the perspective of the superwoman who puts everybody else’s needs first; it’s all about balance.)
2. Set boundaries in your life, period! That means every area of your life.
3. Assertiveness training- learn to express yourself, your thoughts, your feelings, your beliefs, all while respecting the right of others. Assertive behavior can prevent problems that have the potential to create stress.
4. Support system- build your support system and form effective relationships. These people can help and give comfort during times of potential stress.
5. Have a relationship with God- Take time out of your day for prayer and studying God’s Word. God is a good one to talk to in times of trouble and despair.
6. Learn to delegate and ask for help- You really don’t have to do everything.
7. Let go of perfectionism- (It’s really impossible to be perfect all the time.)
8. Make the sacrifice -Try to focus on your needs instead of your wants.
9. Take time out for you-Get your hair done, book a massage, or have a pedicure. Go shopping for a new outfit. Schedule a coffee date with a good friend. The world really will go on while you take a break.
God has given us strength to do some things, but He didn’t call any woman to be a Superwoman. Ask yourself,”Does God want me to use the gift He has given me for this situation?” Pray about it first.
".... He didn’t call any woman to be a Superwoman. "