You know what i’m saying?

It’s that dance you do to adapt your behavior, speech, or appearance to fit into different environments, often to avoid bias or judgment. It can be draining, and honestly, it shouldn’t have to be this way. It’s called code-switching. You know what I’m saying? if you find yourself navigating these waters, here’s some real talk on how to handle it.

1. Don’t be afraid to use professional language or adjust your tone when necessary. But remember, you don’t have to lose your essence to fit in.

2. You can keep your cultural references or slang but tweak them just a bit. For example, instead of saying “lit” in a meeting, you might go for “exciting.” It’s still you, just dressed up for the occasion.

3. If you know your audience, tailor your communication style to resonate with them while still keeping it real. This shows versatility and adaptability, which are key leadership traits.

Code-switching is a complex dance that many women of color navigate in educational settings. Embrace your identity, know when to adapt, and don’t forget that your voice matters.