Naming Your Non-Negotiables Early

When you’re just starting out, every opportunity can feel urgent.

Internships. Projects. Free resources. New spaces. It can feel like you have to say yes to everything just to get your foot in the door.

But here’s the truth:

Not every open door is meant to be walked through at the cost of yourself.

In this episode of Black-Liberation.Tech, Dr. Renée explores what it means to identify your non-negotiables early—especially for women, and girls navigating academic, digital, and professional spaces.

Through real experiences from her doctoral journey, she breaks down the difference between flexibility and self-erasure, and shares the values you must protect as you grow:

Protecting your cultural identity and voice
Taking up space and asking questions with confidence
Setting boundaries around time, energy, and privacy
Staying connected to community while advancing

This episode also expands the conversation on boundaries in real, everyday ways:

Knowing when to ask for extensions instead of burning out
Prioritizing quality over perfection
Understanding that “free” opportunities can still come with hidden costs
Learning when to say no—even when something looks prestigious

Because success is not just about getting in the room.

It’s about remaining whole once you get there.

Liberation Lens Reminder:

The goal is not just access. The goal is alignment, dignity, and sustainability.

Reflect Mode:

Before your next opportunity, ask yourself:

What is one boundary, value, or part of your identity that I will not negotiate—no matter how “good” the opportunity looks?

This episode is for anyone who is:

building while tired
navigating new spaces
carrying family dreams
learning in real time
trying to grow without losing themselves

You are allowed to rise with your identity intact.

Continue this reflection inside the Black-Liberation.Tech OER with our workbook prompts and AI-supported reflection tools.

Don’t Lose Yourself on the Way Up