by Saeeda Ruffin
Queen Latifah laid it out perfectly when she said, “Let your inner queen’s voice come through loud and clear. Be strong, be authentic, be you, and you’ll do her proud.” Now that’s a real word for how to reach a higher level of self-awareness, self-love, and self-appreciation. There is a queen inside you, and while it may take a concerted daily effort to realize your full potential and shine as you should, please know, Sis, that expressing that part of you is totally possible. Here's how you can make it happen and truly live like a queen every day:
MAKE SELF LOVE A PRIORITY
Whether it’s sleeping luxuriously on your Izzy & Liv Satin Pillowcase or sauntering in your Satin Luxe Robe while enjoying your favorite things, queens know that self-care and preserving your happiness are super important. When you love yourself, you have a different perspective on life. A queen who really has that self-love will radiate kindness and peace.
FOCUS ON THE GOOD
Do your best not to let other people’s negative energy or toxic situations keep you from radiating those wonderful positive vibes.
BE BLACK AND PROUD
Your connection to the culture goes deep. Embrace it and let it come through unapologetically. Wear that head wrap like a crown. Rep that dashiki or let that kaftan flow. Express yourself culturally and carry yourself with royal pride.
APPRECIATE YOUR JOURNEY
No one on this planet walks in your shoes. You are unique and your experiences are yours alone. They have helped to create the person you are and will give you the knowledge and confidence to continue striving to be the person you can be.
ACCEPT GRACE AND GIVE GRACE
It is super easy to let a tough time or situation offset your happiness. Life is not perfect, but you can handle the rough moments with grace. Allow others to extend you grace, don’t be too hard on yourself, and extend that same grace to others.
GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO BE FABULOUS WHENEVER YOU WANT
There is a time for humility and a time to bring it. The world will try to dictate what you can and cannot do when it comes to fashion and looks. That ain’t for you, Queen. You create the rules for you!
BUILD YOURSELF UP DAILY AND CELEBRATE YOU
You are the hopes and dreams of your enslaved ancestors. Each day, you stand on the shoulders of those who have come before you. Remind yourself of YOUR GREATNESS and theirs. Queens earn and relish adulation. Always acknowledge the things that make you wholly and uniquely wonderful. Never feel bad about toasting to your accomplishments.
SPEAK AND LIVE YOUR TRUTH
The real you is worthy, strong, and human. You are a true queen, so own it and shine, with your royal self! Holding in your feelings and trying to be someone you are not will only tarnish your crown.
