Self

New Phase, Who Dis? Gen X Edition

16 August

This actually started out as a simple, short, social media post. But the more thought I put into what I had to say, it turned into a full on opinion piece, lol.

I love this phase of my life—it’s the time where I care less and embrace it more.

Gen X put in the work. Yes, we put in the work (and are still working)! And now we are coasting into that time in our lives where we are reflecting on that work, celebrating that work, and recalibrating while preparing for what’s next for us.

I am super proud of the work I have done and the impact I feel that I’ve made doing that work. But I am also owning who I am and that I am a person who is becoming aware of the years behind me versus the years in front of me and taking the steps to do the things that I want to do in life before my time is up. I’ve noticed that in many spaces, as a Black woman you’re expected to be one thing and yet all the things. I love politics, government, news, writing and sharing stories that aren’t being told–I am always going to do that. But there’s more to me than that. I have always loved photography, music, clothes, style, and fashion. I kept this side of myself tucked away, hidden from the public eye. Whether it was fear of judgment or just the idea that these interests didn’t align with how others saw me, I wasn’t comfortable fully embracing or sharing this part of my identity.

Living my life like it’s golden.

Aging like a fine wine and a badass attitude.

Midlife crisis? Nah, just a Gen X glow-up.

But now, in my mid-40s, I’ve reached a point where I’m ready to own all of it. I’ve come to realize that these creative outlets aren’t just hobbies; they’re integral to my self-expression and joy. This is the season of my life where I’m embracing every facet of who I am—unapologetically. No longer holding back, I’m letting the world see the complete me, not just the parts that fit into a certain mold. Because at this stage, I know that authenticity is the most fashionable thing a person can wear, and I’m proudly stepping into that truth.

At this point in my life, I am allowing myself to explore and indulge in the diverse interests that bring me joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s fashion, creativity, or personal growth, I’m committed to nurturing all aspects of my being. However, this journey of self-discovery doesn’t detract from the deep commitment I have to the social justice work that has defined much of my path. On the contrary, it strengthens it. I believe that in embracing all of who I am, I am better equipped to serve the causes I care about with renewed energy, passion, and perspective.

I am seeing more and more of my Gen X fam redefining who they are and stepping into the next era of their lives and I am here for it. I love it! This life is not a dress rehearsal.

Moving forward, I’m going to continue to lift up the issues and causes that are important to me–along with my opinions–because well, that’s always going to be me. But I am also going to talk about life, my life, style, music, my hobbies and other things I care about that make me who I am. My website has all of the political and social justice stuff that is me–but it also has my style file and stor e where I feature the clothes I wear and often get asked about–also very much me.

If there’s one thing being on social media has taught me, it’s the incredible power of vulnerability. When we open up and share our personal stories—our triumphs, defeats, and raw emotions—we create a space where others can find connection and comfort. You never know who might be silently struggling, feeling alone, or in need of a reminder that they’re not the only one navigating life’s challenges. I hear from those people everyday in my DMs and inbox. Our stories have the power to inspire, heal, and provide hope to those who stumble upon them at just the right moment. In a world that often feels disconnected, these shared experiences can be the lifeline someone desperately needs, proving that even in our most personal moments, we have the ability to impact others in profound ways.

And let me just pull over the car for a minute and say that Gen X is going through it. We’re not old but we’re not young either. Many of us are at a crossroads, reexamining our lives and everyone in it (and not in it). For many of us we are the literal definition of everything everywhere all at once. Tread carefully around us. We’ve been through a lot. We care, but we’re at the age where we couldn’t give a f–k and also have bail money.

To those who may only see me as one thing, I want to share that life is a journey of growth, evolution, and self-discovery. I am constantly changing and evolving, striving to become the best version of myself while staying true to who I am at my core. My journey is not about leaving behind what defines me but about expanding and deepening my identity. I hope you can see that my growth is a testament to my authenticity, not a departure from it. I am embracing the full spectrum of who I am, and I invite you to join me on this path of continuous evolution.

Midlife crisis? Nah, just a Gen X glow-up!