As a Black woman in leadership, it can feel like the weight of representing your entire race (and gender) is on your shoulders. You might feel like you have no room to fail, because any misstep or failure may reflect poorly on Black leaders as a whole.

Michelle Obama said it best in a recent interview with CNN:

“It was no accident that the administration was scandal-free… One small misstep isn’t just a misstep for you, but it’s a misstep for your family, for your community, for your race, for all of humanity because we don’t often get a second chance… 

But that weight is exhausting when you’re carrying that.”

Navigating this pressure as a Black woman in leadership can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you maintain your composure and thrive in your role:

Embrace your strengths and weaknesses.

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of perfection, but the truth is that no one is perfect. Instead of trying to hide your weaknesses or pretend that you don’t have any, embrace them. Recognize that your strengths and weaknesses are what make you unique, and that they can help you excel in your leadership role.

(P.S. Remember that one mark of a great leader is one who is willing to admit when they’ve made a mistake.)

Seek out support.

Navigating the pressure to be perfect can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Seek out support from others, whether it’s through a formal mentorship program or an informal network of colleagues. These women can provide guidance, perspective, and encouragement when you need it most.

Practice self-care.

Taking care of yourself is essential for all leaders, and is especially important for Black women facing this additional pressure. Make sure that you’re getting enough rest, eating well, and exercising regularly. Also, consider incorporating activities that help you relax and recharge, like meditation, yoga, or a hobby that you enjoy.

Set realistic goals.

While it’s important to have high standards for yourself, it’s also important to set realistic goals. Don’t set yourself up for failure by expecting perfection in everything you do. Instead, set achievable goals that push you to grow and improve, but also allow you to celebrate your successes along the way.

Remember why you’re in your leadership role.

When the pressure to be perfect feels overwhelming, it can be helpful to remind yourself why you’re in your leadership role in the first place. What motivates you to do the work that you do? What impact do you hope to have on your community, your organization, or your industry? Keeping these goals in mind can help you stay focused and motivated when the going gets tough.

As a Black woman in leadership, the pressure to be perfect can feel all-consuming. You may feel like you have to work twice as hard as your peers just to prove that you belong in your position. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. You’re also in an incredible position to break the status quo, challenge stereotypes, and inspire other women of color in your organization and beyond.