curated for Women of color
Living Intintly
Inspire Achieve Lead
Living Intintly
Living Intintly
Intintly Magazine is dedicated to celebrating and empowering women of color by showcasing stories of inspiration, aspiration, and impact. Our mission is to provide a platform that amplifies the voices and experiences of women of color, highlighting their achievements, resilience, and contributions to society. Through thought-provoking content, inclusive representation, and community engagement, we aim to inspire our readers to dream boldly, pursue their passions fearlessly, and positively impact their communities and beyond. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where women of color can thrive, connect, and uplift each other, ultimately driving positive change and creating a more equitable and diverse world.
Subscribe for a chance to win
Join US
Join our vibrant community of empowered women of color! Subscribe to our magazine for monthly inspiration, exclusive content, and impactful stories. Trust us; we value your inbox and promise not to spam you. Our subscribers are automatically entered to win our monthly giveaway featuring exciting prizes. Take the chance to be part of something extraordinary. Subscribe today, and let's embark on this empowering journey together!
Our monthly giveaway is designed to provide our subscribers with a rejuvenating and empowering experience that promotes rest, relaxation, and inspiration. Each month, we curate a selection of carefully chosen items and experiences aimed at nourishing the mind, body, and soul.
daily affirmations for November
"I embrace the gentle power within me, nurturing myself with kindness and compassion as I navigate life's journey." "My melanin is my beauty, and I embrace every shade and curve of my being." "I am deserving of love, respect, and happiness in all aspects of my life." "I am deserving of love, respect, and happiness in all aspects of my life." "I trust in my intuition and inner wisdom to guide me towards success and fulfillment." “My voice matters, and I have the power to create positive change in my community.” " I acknowledge and appreciate the work my ancestors have put in and continue the process." "I celebrate my uniqueness and refuse to conform to society's narrow standards of beauty." "I release all doubts and fears, knowing that I am capable of achieving greatness." "I forgive myself for past mistakes and embrace each new day as an opportunity for growth." "I am a queen, and I carry myself with grace, dignity, and confidence." "I attract abundance into my life by embracing gratitude and practicing self-care." "I am enough just as I am, and I shine brightly in the world." "I surround myself with love, positivity, and supportive relationships." "I embrace my journey and trust that everything is unfolding for my highest good." "I am a trailblazer, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations." "I embody strength, resilience, and grace in the face of adversity." "I am empowered to speak my truth and advocate for myself and others." "I am not defined by society's stereotypes or limitations placed upon me." "I radiate confidence and empower others to do the same." "I am worthy of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation." "I am a masterpiece, crafted with love and purpose by the universe." "I trust in divine timing and surrender to the flow of life." "I honor my heritage and embrace the rich tapestry of my cultural identity." "I am a beacon of light, inspiring others with my authenticity and resilience." "I am unstoppable, and I persevere through any obstacles that come my way." "I am the architect of my destiny, and I create a life filled with joy and abundance." "I am grateful for the journey that has brought me to this moment, and I look forward to the blessings that lie ahead." "I am a goddess, worthy of reverence, love, and admiration." "I am proud of who I am, where I come from, and the limitless potential within me." “I am ready to embrace a new month with gratitude.”The Elephant has been in the room for far too long
For far too long, Black women have carried the weight of the world on their shoulders. When does it end? When do we address the elephant in the room? It is crucial to address the nuanced experiences of black women, who often find themselves continuously carrying more responsibilities and facing distinct challenges than their counterparts.
The elephant in the room includes the systemic discrimination and societal expectations that disproportionately affect black women, leading to disparities in various aspects of life. Black women shoulder heavier burdens, navigate distinct obstacles, and are treated differently in a society that often fails to acknowledge these disparities. Societal pressure comes from various sources, including within their race and culture.
Black women, by their intersecting identities of race and gender, often face unique and compounded challenges. Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, highlights how multiple forms of oppression can intersect and create complex experiences. Black women experience both racial and gender discrimination simultaneously, making their journey through life more strenuous.
Black women's responsibilities often extend to caring for their families, including children, parents, and extended relatives. This burden can be particularly heavy due to systemic inequalities that limit economic opportunities for black communities.
Black women are often confronted with workplace disparities that are rooted in racial and gender bias. Despite their qualifications and competence, they frequently face a pay gap when compared to white men and even black men. According to the American Association of University Women, black women make only 63 cents for every dollar earned by white men. This wage gap affects their current financial well-being and compounds over time, resulting in significant disparities in lifetime earnings.
Additionally, black women can sometimes struggle to advance in their careers due to the glass ceiling, limited access to mentorship, and racial bias. Their unique experiences and perspectives may not be recognized or valued in predominantly white workplaces, hindering their professional growth.
The Weight of Stereotypes
Stereotypes can be a heavy burden to bear, and black women often find themselves facing harmful preconceptions that affect their interactions and opportunities. The "strong black woman" stereotype, for example, expects black women to be resilient and unyielding in the face of adversity. While resilience is a valuable trait, this stereotype can be detrimental when it discourages black women from seeking help or expressing vulnerability when needed.
Moreover, black women may also encounter the "angry black woman" stereotype, which portrays them as aggressive or confrontational. This stereotype can lead to unfair treatment in various contexts, from the workplace to social interactions, and can perpetuate racial bias.
Healthcare Disparities
Healthcare disparities among black women are a glaring issue that often goes unaddressed. Black women are more likely to face maternal mortality and morbidity rates that are significantly higher than those of white women. These disparities result from a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, unequal access to quality healthcare, and systemic racism within the healthcare system.
Additionally, mental health disparities are a pressing concern. The stigma surrounding mental health issues in the black community can prevent black women from seeking the help they need. This, coupled with the unique stressors they face, can lead to higher rates of mental health challenges without adequate support.
Criminal Justice Disparities
The criminal justice system disproportionately impacts black women. They are more likely to be arrested, face harsher sentencing, and be subjected to violence while in custody. Not only does this affect the lives of black women directly, but it can also have lasting consequences for their families and communities.
Education and Educational Disparities
Educational disparities also weigh heavily on black women. The opportunity gap starts early, with inadequate access to quality education in underserved communities, which can limit future opportunities and perpetuate cycles of poverty.
When black women do pursue higher education, they may face challenges such as stereotype threat, unequal access to resources, and biased grading that can hinder their academic success. Black women continue to excel and contribute to their communities and society despite these hurdles.
Starting within our communities by understanding and dismantling the pressure placed on Black women is the first move to create and sustain change.
2025
New Year, New Goals: Strategies for thriving in 2025
As we enter a new year, the air is charged with fresh energy, hope, and a desire to make this the best year yet. For women of color, 2025 presents a unique opportunity to embrace our power, redefine success on our terms, and thrive in every aspect of life. Whether it’s career advancement, personal growth, or cultivating joy, here are actionable strategies to help you achieve your goals and thrive this year.
Reflect on Your Journey
Before setting new goals, take a moment to honor how far you’ve come. Reflection is a powerful tool for growth. Ask yourself:
What were my most significant wins in 2024?
What lessons did I learn from challenges?
What brought me the most joy and fulfillment?
Journaling your reflections can help you clarify what you want to move forward and what you need to leave behind. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and use it as a foundation for the year ahead.
Set Intentional Goals
Goal-setting is more than writing a list of resolutions; it’s about being intentional. Use the SMART framework to ensure your goals are:
Specific: Define what you want to achieve.
Measurable: Set criteria to track your progress.
Achievable: Ensure your goals are realistic within your resources.
Relevant: Align your goals with your values and priorities.
Time-bound: Set deadlines to stay accountable.
For example, instead of saying, “I want to get healthier,” try, “I will attend a yoga class twice a week and prepare three home-cooked meals weekly by March.”
Prioritize Your Well-being
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. As women of color, we often carry the weight of multiple responsibilities. Commit to putting your mental, physical, and emotional health first this year. Here are some ideas:
Mental Health: Schedule regular therapy sessions or practice mindfulness through meditation apps like Calm or Insight Timer.
Physical Health: Find activities you enjoy, whether dancing, hiking, or joining a local gym. Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement a day.
Emotional Health: Set boundaries to protect your energy. Learn to say “no” without guilt and surround yourself with people who uplift you.
Build Financial Confidence
Financial empowerment is a cornerstone of thriving. Make 2025 the year you take control of your money:
Create a Budget: Use tools like Mint or YNAB to track your income and expenses.
Pay Down Debt: Focus on high-interest debts first or consider the snowball method to tackle smaller debts.
Invest in Your Future: Explore investment opportunities, such as stocks, real estate, or starting a retirement fund.
Support Black-Owned Businesses: Commit to circulating wealth within our communities by consciously shopping Black-owned.
Pursue Professional Growth
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, climbing the corporate ladder, or pivoting to a new career, professional growth is key to thriving:
Set Career Goals: Identify what success looks like for you in 2025. It might be earning a promotion, launching a new product, or developing a new skill.
Network Strategically: Attend events, join professional groups, and connect with mentors who can help you grow.
Enhance Your Skills: To stay competitive in your field, take online courses or attend workshops. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera offer excellent resources.
Nurture Your Relationships
Thriving isn’t just about personal success; it’s also about fostering meaningful connections. Strengthen your relationships with these steps:
Family: Plan regular quality time, whether it’s a weekly dinner or a monthly outing.
Friends: Check in on your circle and intentionally maintain close bonds.
Romantic Partners: Communicate openly and prioritize time for each other. Consider scheduling date nights or shared hobbies.
Explore New Horizons
Life is too short to stay in your comfort zone. Make 2025 the year of exploration:
Travel: Visit a new city, country, or cultural destination that’s always been on your list. Look for Black-owned travel groups for unique experiences.
Hobbies: Try something new—painting, pottery, or learning a musical instrument.
Personal Development: Read books by authors of color or attend events that inspire and educate.
Give Back to Your Community
Thriving is also about uplifting others. Look for ways to give back:
Mentor: Share your knowledge and experience with younger women of color.
Volunteer: Dedicate time to causes that matter to you, such as supporting Black businesses or advocating for social justice.
Donate: If you can, contribute financially to organizations and initiatives that empower our communities.
Embrace Rest and Joy
Remember that rest and joy are revolutionary acts in a world that often glorifies hustle culture. Make time to:
Unplug: Take breaks from social media to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
Celebrate Wins: Acknowledge every milestone, big or small.
Find Joy Daily: Whether dancing to your favorite song, laughing with friends, or enjoying a quiet moment with a book, prioritize joy in your everyday life.
Stay Committed and Flexible
Life rarely goes as planned, and that’s okay. Stay committed to your goals, but remain flexible. If something isn’t working, adjust your approach rather than giving up. Remember, progress is more important than perfection.
Final Thoughts
2025 is a blank slate filled with endless possibilities. You can make this year genuinely transformative by setting intentional goals, prioritizing your well-being, and embracing growth. As a woman of color, your journey to thriving uplifts and inspires those around you. Here’s to a year of power, purpose, and prosperity!
Let’s thrive together. What are your goals for 2025?
recent articles
Can We Please Stop the Comparative Analysis?
Vice President
Can We Please Stop the Comparative Analysis?