“I don’t see color,” a statement we have all heard far too often. Or when facing a heated discussion, hearing the brief but jarring “you people” can raise a red flag. Or perhaps when shopping around, seeing an all-too familiar face of a store employee, who is now restocking shelves in every aisle you visit.
These are all examples of microaggressions, comments and/or behaviors that subtly demonstrate bias or prejudice towards a marginalized group or person, which also often cause harm in a multitude of ways, ways that can directly impact our sense of self and overall well-being.
Whether it’s in a social, professional or academic setting, microaggressions have the power to make us second guess key aspects of what makes us unique, ultimately causing significant harm.
Here are 4 ways you can maintain your self-esteem while navigating microaggressions:
Practice Daily Affirmations
Affirming yourself through written or verbal statements can allow you to feel the empowerment and confidence needed to navigate challenges, enhance self-worth, and foster a positive mindset. Repeat after this: “I am enough just as I am, I do not let others determine my worth.”
2. Set Clear Boundaries
Setting clear boundaries with others helps reduce the likelihood of encountering microaggressions once one has occurred. Therefore, fostering respect and healthier interactions, which can also create an environment where mutual understanding and personal esteem are maintained.
3. Engage in Self-Care
Whether it’s listening to music or taking a scenic walk, self-care allows us to mitigate challenges created by microaggressions and the stresses of everyday life. By prioritizing activities that nurture our well-being, we empower ourselves to face adversity with confidence and grace.
4. Redirect Negative Thoughts
By redirecting negative thoughts that are influenced by microaggressions through cultivating a mindset of positivity and resilience, we can transform our internal dialogue. This not only helps maintain mental and emotional balance but also strengthens our ability to respond to microaggressions calmly and constructively.
Final Thoughts on Dealing With A Microaggression
A microaggression may be subtle but is powerful, and can often leave us feeling less than. When our identity is under attack and we don’t know how to properly bounce back from the impact being left, it can hinder our growth and diminish our confidence. Are you currently feeling the impact of microaggressions on your self-esteem? Know that you are not alone!
Wellness Tree Counseling is here to serve and support you in your mental health. Visit our website to learn more about our services and book your free intake screening call to explore if we might be a good fit for you and your mental health needs. Contact us today to book your intake screening call!
About Wellness Tree Counseling...
Our mission at Wellness Tree Counseling is to promote wellness through a culturally sensitive lens so that individuals, families and communities are encouraged to rise to their full potential and engage life in meaningful ways.
Our vision is to provide the BIPOC community with comprehensive holistic care that empowers and equips them with skills to work toward improved mental health and well-being. We take great pride in treating the whole-person.
At Wellness Tree Counseling, we value treating our clients and community with C.A.R.E. (Compassion, Affirming, Respect, & Empathy).
To learn more about our services, please visit www.wellnesstreecounseling.com
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