Success Knows No Color

In light of the picture that’s floating around social media of the lack of race representation of the White House interns, I feel the need to address my concerns. As I was driving to a meeting today, I saw a group of middle-aged White men dressed in business casual attire and standing partially in the road as they worked on a project by a well-known phone company, that shall remain unknown. Nothing was unusual about this encounter; yet, I was bothered because NOTHING was unusual. 

Issues with diversity in the workplace and academic platforms, have been a topic of conversation for many years.  I admit, it speaks to a larger problem that’s not entirely a race problem. No friends, I am not saying that our society does not have a problem with race... I'm simply saying that this particular issue is not just about race.  As I passed by the men this morning, one thing came to my mind..SUCCESS SEES NO COLOR. The lack of diversity, on one hand could be accredited to stereotypical, discriminatory behavior.   On the other hand, it could also be accredited to intimidation and low self-confidence of minority groups.  This post will address the latter. 

As a minority woman, I am guilty of fretting over and even shying away from applying for certain jobs that are predominantly occupied by my Caucasian counterparts. Subconsciously, a part of me for some reason, thought that “they” were somehow, more intelligent, more prepared, more appropriate, more trained, and more.. well, just more suited for life. After some deep, deep, soul searching and re-wiring of my own view of myself, I have come to realize that the labels and limitations that I’d imposed on another group and subconsciously, on myself, where not TRUTH and where indeed, self-imposed.   

I’ve stopped looking for a race or particular group of people to validate my intelligence.  When opportunities present themselves to me, I’ll simply be ok with who I am and choose to pursue or not. My choice will not be out of intimidation or insecurity, but out of my own desire and goals. I’ve embraced the nerdy parts of me that like research and writing. I’ve accepted that I will sometimes be the only Black woman in the room.  I will simply be aware of the view that I've heard about Black successful individuals that someone “let” them be in the room, as if that person did not earn their way at the table like many others. 

In order to become the person that does not allow the views and experiences of others to taint how you choose to live your life, you must take action in these five areas:  

• Begin to recognize and accept yourself.  Ask yourself, "What is it about me that makes me unique?  What are my strengths/weaknesses?  How can I improve or get better in a particular area?  How can I add value to my talents and skills?  
• Choose to overcome survivor's guilt (imposed or self-imposed).  Survivor's guilt occurs when a person experiences mental or emotional stress about overcoming a particular situation that others around them did not.  Each of us are authors in our own stories.  
•  Choose to live life on purpose.  Life is too short to live on another person's terms.  Don't like the job? Change it!  Don't have enough education? Go get it!  The people in your circle are not supportive?  Find YOUR tribe!  
• Stop expecting support from the people you feel should support you.  It's easy to get caught up in seeking external validation.  Reality is, no one is obligated to support you.  If they choose to, great!  If they don't, that's ok too. In fact, you're now at liberty to decide whether or not that person should stay in your life or not.  Despite the lack of support, choose to be ok with possibly being the “first".  For example, I was the first one to complete a doctorate degree in my family.    
• Realize that every step towards success, affords you the opportunity help others.  The great poet Mayou Angelou once noted, " If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you would have succeeded".  After all, what good is any amount of success if you can't reach back and help others?  

As we pursue life as underrepresented women remember that the true definition of success is defined by you.  We are indeed authors in our own stories and utilizing these five points will help you begin creating a story worth the journey and remember,  SUCCESS KNOWS NO COLOR. 

-Dr. Tiffany T