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'Tine Zekis | Founder & CEO, Getting Black Women Paid

Reinvention Isn’t Pretty—But Sis, It’s Powerful

Published about 1 month ago • 3 min read

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Hey Reader!

Reinvention sounds glamorous—new beginnings, fresh starts, second chances. But the truth? Reinvention is often messy, uncertain, and uncomfortable. It means shedding identities that no longer fit, grieving what could’ve been, and facing the unknown with courage you didn’t even know you had.

For Black women, reinvention carries extra weight. We’re often the anchors for families, workplaces, and communities. So when we choose to pivot—whether it’s in career, relationships, or identity—it can feel like the whole world is watching, questioning, and sometimes doubting our every move. That pressure makes reinvention feel even riskier—but it also makes it more powerful.

Here’s the thing: reinvention isn’t about being polished—it’s about being honest. It’s about refusing to settle into a version of your life that no longer serves you. And while disruption can be painful, it can also be the very thing that saves you. Reinvention is proof that you’re willing to choose yourself, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Here are three truths to keep close when walking through reinvention:

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1️⃣ It won’t always look “together.” Growth often looks chaotic before it feels aligned. Don’t mistake the mess for failure.
2️⃣ You’re allowed to disrupt. Reinvention isn’t selfish—it’s survival. And it’s also the doorway to joy.
3️⃣ You’re not starting from scratch. Every lesson, every struggle, every win is part of your new foundation.

If you’re in a season of shift, give yourself grace. You don’t need to have it all figured out to move forward. Reinvention doesn’t require perfection—it requires permission. Permission to outgrow, to pivot, to release, and to step boldly into the unknown with the tools you already carry.

Because reinvention isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about finally making space for the truest version of you.

Best,
'Tine

P.S. I got to sit down with Dr. Naeema Olatunji for a raw, truth-telling conversation on what reinvention really looks like in midlife. She doesn’t sugarcoat the process—but she does share how to move through it without losing yourself. This is for every woman standing at a crossroads.

👉🏾 Watch on YouTube | Listen on Buzzsprout​

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In The News

In this article, Black Women In The Workplace Are Facing A Crisis. What Now? by Jasmine Browley, the author examines how Black women are experiencing rising unemployment, economic instability, and structural inequities—even when doing everything “right.” She explores tools for self-advocacy: naming your value, setting boundaries, building community, knowing when to push back or walk away.

As a journalist, I don't have the luxury of tuning out. I don’t get to unplug when the news cycle feels too heavy—especially when the headlines hit home. I have to be aware of what’s happening in the world all the time.

We Want to Hear from You!

The Courage and Cost of Reinvention

From career pivots to lifestyle changes, we want to hear how you’ve reinvented yourself—and what gave you the courage to do it. Share in the poll below.

The Getting Black Women Paid Podcast

Check out this week’s podcast, Reinvention Isn’t Pretty—But It Will Save You (with Dr. Naeema Olatunji). This episode dives into what disruption really looks like—and why it may be the most powerful move you ever make. Dr. Naeema shares her personal journey of transformation and offers insights on navigating change with courage and resilience.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or check it out here.

Prefer video? You can WATCH the podcast on our YouTube channel here.

Claim Yours Tip of the Week

Give Yourself Permission to Pivot

This week, name one area of your life that no longer fits—and one small step you can take toward what feels more aligned. Reinvention starts with honesty, not perfection.

What's Going on with 'Tine?

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'Tine Zekis | Founder & CEO, Getting Black Women Paid

I help Black women professionals advance their careers, dramatically increase their lifetime earning potential, and build generational wealth. Sign up for my newsletter to learn more!

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