I’m Not Your Superwoman
Photo by Yury Oliveira via pexels
“I’m not your Superwoman”
Growing up, there was a song that had our moms and aunties in a chokehold. For them, it was a declaration demanding more—more time, more respect, everything.
The song “Superwoman” by Karyn White became an anthem for a generation.
I still remember riding with my mom in the backseat of our gray Oldsmobile, listening to the song. As soon as my mom heard the melodies, she’d lean forward and turn the volume up. That was my cue that a concert was coming! As the harmonies began, she’d drift away into a lyrical sea. For those few minutes, our Oldsmobile became a concert hall, and we were the captive audience. She’d take a deep breath and sing along…
🎶 Early in the morning, I put breakfast at your table;
And make sure your coffee has its sugar and cream…🎶
As the song continues, you understand her frustrations and pleas to be seen and to ask for the love she selfishly gives to others. The song builds up to the chorus, and Karyn boldly declares, “ I’M NOT YOUR SUPERWOMAN!!”
What is a superwoman?
“A term first coined in 1984, Superwoman Syndrome occurs when a woman neglects herself because she is seeking to “do it all” to perfection and stretching herself too thin.” [1]
As Superwomen, no is rarely in our vocabulary. We are the first to wake up and often the last to rest. Sound familiar? Eventually, we find ourselves depleted and running on fumes. When we’re running on fumes, we want relief. The problem with being a Superwoman is that we don’t know how to ask for help. We often experience burnout and increased chances of illness.
We must let go of the facade that we can do everything. There’s no prize for being the most overworked and overburdened. Placing your needs on the back burner can eventually manifest into physical symptoms. Those symptoms can include:
Bouts of irritability.
Inability to sleep or excessive sleep.
Memory issues.
Muscle tension.
Anxiety.
General aches and pains. [2]
Self-care is a deliberate and conscious effort to take care of one's own physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Because we’re Superwoman, I’m giving you a homework assignment. Your assignment is to create a self-care plan that focuses on YOU! Your plan needs to be something made by YOU and for YOU.
Step One: Assess your needs. Evaluate different areas of your life to identify where you need the most support.
Step Two: Set Goals. Define clear, achievable goals for each area identified in Step One. Also, consider possible obstacles that could interfere with your plan.
Step Three: Plan Specific Activities. Identify specific activities that will help you achieve your goals.
Step Four: Schedule and Prioritize. Integrate these activities into your daily, weekly, or monthly routine. Prioritize them by scheduling specific times for self-care just as you would for work or other responsibilities.
Step Five: Monitor and Adjust. Make adjustments as necessary to ensure your plan continues to meet your needs.
Even when you don't have time to squeeze in one more thing, make self-care a priority! The love you so freely give to others, it’s time to give to yourself. You’re worthy and you deserve!
[1] “Do You Have Superwoman Syndrome?” https://www.scripps.org/news_items/6221-do-you-have-superwoman-syndrome
[2] “What Is Superwoman Syndrome?”, https://soberlifesd.com/blog/what-is-superwoman-syndrome/
Beverly K. Johnson
Beverly K. Johnson is a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition and Transformation Coach, and the Founder of The EPIC Academy and Genesys Fitness. With a deep passion for health and wellness, Beverly specializes in guiding clients through transformative journeys to achieve their fitness and nutrition goals. Her expertise and dedication have empowered many to lead healthier, more active lives.