Common Myths That Hold Black Women Back in the Workplace

For so many Black women, navigating the workplace feels like trying to win a game where the rules were never made for us. I’ve been there—pouring everything into my job, delivering my best work, and still feeling invisible.

It wasn’t until my late 40s that I had a real “aha” moment. I remember someone telling me, “Your brilliance intimidates people.” At first, it stung. But I realized it wasn’t about me—it was about how the workplace was built. The systems, the biases, and the assumptions? They weren’t designed for Black women to thrive. But here’s the good news: once I learned to spot the myths I was believing and started moving differently, everything changed.

And it can change for you, too.

Let’s break down these myths together and start building the career you’ve worked so hard for.

The Myths That Keep Us Stuck

1. Myth #1: You just need to work harder.
   We’ve all heard it before—“You have to be twice as good to get half as much.” And while hard work is part of success, it’s not the whole answer. Working harder won’t fix bias or get you noticed if you’re not advocating for yourself strategically.

2. Myth #2: Staying quiet keeps you safe.
   Keeping your head down and hoping someone notices your work? That’s not going to get you promoted. Staying silent allows others to control the narrative about you. Sis, speak up—share your wins, your ideas, and your value.

3. Myth #3: Bias is always obvious.
   Bias can be sneaky. It shows up in microaggressions, being excluded from opportunities, or being underestimated. Recognizing these “small” slights is key to calling them out—professionally and with confidence.

4. Myth #4: Asking for help means you’re weak.
   We often think we have to do it all on our own. But building a network of mentors, sponsors, and allies is how we rise. There is power in connection, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Here’s the truth: the traditional “work harder, stay quiet” advice doesn’t work for us. That’s why I’ve created a step-by-step process specifically for Black women who are done being overlooked and are ready to claim their power.

The Process: Steps to Reclaim Your Career

Here’s the exact process I used to stop feeling invisible and start showing up like the leader I am:

1. Spot the Bias Traps. Pay attention to patterns—where are you being overlooked? Journal those moments and recognize what’s happening so you can respond intentionally.

2. Reclaim Your Story. Don’t let anyone else define your value. Practice talking about your accomplishments—weekly, monthly, whenever you can. If you don’t tell your story, someone else will.

3. Build Your Tribe. Stop trying to do it alone. Connect with mentors, professional networks, and allies who see your potential and will advocate for you.

4. Advocate Strategically. Be intentional about how you frame your ideas and wins. Connect your contributions to the goals of the company and make your voice hard to ignore.

5. Commit to Growth. Never let anyone underestimate your potential. Keep learning, stretching, and stepping into new opportunities—whether it’s a course, a project, or a promotion.

Overcoming Roadblocks

Let’s keep it real: there will be challenges.

• Self-Doubt: Imposter syndrome is real, but so are your achievements. Keep a “win journal” where you write down everything you’ve accomplished, big or small. Reflect on it whenever doubt creeps in.
• Pushback from Others: Not everyone will cheer for you. That’s okay—stay focused on your goals and remind yourself why you’re doing this.
• Fatigue: This work is exhausting. Take care of yourself. Sleep well, set boundaries, and lean on your support system to refuel.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Sis, it’s time to stop shrinking yourself to fit spaces that weren’t built for you. You’ve got the talent, the skills, and the brilliance to lead. You just need the tools to navigate the system that’s working against you.

That’s why I created the $7 eBook: Navigating Workplace Bias and Thriving—a practical guide that breaks down the five fatal mistakes holding Black women back and gives you the step-by-step strategies to overcome them.

✨ Grab your copy here → $7 eBook

You deserve to be seen. You deserve to lead. And the world is waiting for your brilliance.

Let’s get to work. 🚀

Tag your sisters who need to see this and let’s rise together. #BlackWomenInLeadership #WorkplaceBias #ProfessionalGrowth