In a pivotal scene from the Renaissance movie, Beyoncé, with the wisdom of her 40s, declares liberation from the shackles of seeking approval. Sharing a similar age with the Queen herself, I resonate deeply with this sentiment—a profound awareness of one’s worth and the unapologetic stance on deserving respect and recognition, whether in career pursuits or personal relationships.

As we step into the realm of 2024, I’ve decided to demand the pay, respect, and promotions I undeniably deserve. No longer tethered by the desire to be meek or keep my head down, especially as a black woman navigating the professional landscape. It’s time to abandon the fear of rocking the boat, understanding that in a world where opportunities are as scarce as housing, standing firm on one’s worth becomes an act of self-preservation.

In the eloquent words of a summarized quote, “I am who I am, take me or leave me. It’s a liberating place to be as a woman. I spent too much of my life as a serial people-pleaser. Now, I don’t give a fudge. I have nothing to prove to anyone, and I’m free.”

Navigating a world that often challenges and questions our worth can be daunting, but as we accumulate years of excellence in our respective fields, a newfound freedom emerges. Liberation is found in being your authentic self, unburdened by the need to prove anything to anyone. It’s the ability to bring your whole self to your work, a true celebration of individuality and the culmination of years of hard-earned experience.