Chasing the Bag Without Losing Yourself: A Guide for Business Success

Overworking yourself in the name of success can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion.

.A self-assured black woman is beaming with a smile while holding a laptop.

The allure of "chasing the bag"—securing financial success and achieving your business goals—is undeniable. For many of us, especially Black women navigating entrepreneurial spaces, it’s a pursuit tied to freedom, legacy, and empowerment.

But while chasing the bag can be fulfilling, it can also lead to burnout, a loss of identity, and the unsettling feeling that you’ve left pieces of yourself behind in the process. The key is finding a balance between ambition and authenticity so that your success doesn’t come at the expense of your well-being.

The Risks of Chasing the Bag

1. Burnout

Overworking yourself in the name of success can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. Constantly hustling without rest puts your health and relationships at risk.

2. Loss of Identity

When the drive for financial gain becomes all-consuming, you may lose sight of who you are outside of your business. Your values, passions, and relationships may take a back seat to the grind.

3. Compromising Your Values

The pressure to succeed can sometimes lead to decisions that conflict with your ethics or personal beliefs. Inauthenticity in business can create internal conflict and long-term dissatisfaction.

4. Neglecting Self-Care

In the race to achieve more, it’s easy to neglect your mental, physical, and emotional health. Self-care often becomes an afterthought when the focus is solely on the next big milestone.

How to Chase the Bag Without Losing Yourself

1. Define Success on Your Terms

Success looks different for everyone. Take the time to reflect on what it means for you:

• Is it financial stability?

• Is it creating a legacy for your family?

• Is it building a business that aligns with your passions?

When your definition of success aligns with your values, you’re less likely to feel lost or disconnected as you grow.

2. Stay Grounded in Your “Why”

Your “why” is the purpose behind your hustle. It’s the reason you wake up every day and put in the work. Revisit your “why” regularly to ensure your actions align with your purpose.

• Ask yourself: Am I building something that fulfills me, or am I chasing what others expect of me?

3. Set Boundaries Around Work

Chasing the bag doesn’t mean sacrificing all your time and energy. Set boundaries to protect yourself:

• Establish clear work hours to maintain balance.

• Learn to say no to opportunities that don’t align with your goals.

• Delegate tasks so you’re not trying to do everything yourself.

4. Prioritize Self-Care

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine:

• Get enough sleep to recharge.

• Practice mindfulness or meditation to manage stress.

• Schedule time for activities that bring you joy outside of work.

5. Build a Support System

No one succeeds alone. Surround yourself with people who uplift, inspire, and keep you accountable. This could include mentors, friends, family, or a network of like-minded entrepreneurs.

• Share your struggles and victories with people who understand your journey.

• Lean on your community for advice and encouragement.

6. Celebrate Small Wins

Success isn’t just about big milestones. Take time to acknowledge and celebrate the smaller accomplishments along the way. This helps you stay motivated and connected to your progress.

7. Check in with Yourself Regularly

Schedule regular self-reflection to ensure you’re staying true to yourself. Ask:

• Am I still passionate about what I’m building?

• Am I taking care of my mental and physical health?

• Does my work still align with my values?

If the answer to any of these is no, consider making adjustments to realign with what matters most to you.

The Power of Authentic Success

Chasing the bag doesn’t mean sacrificing yourself. True success comes when you can build a thriving business while staying connected to your purpose, values, and well-being.

For Black women in business, this is especially important. The pressure to overperform in spaces where you may not always feel seen or supported can lead to exhaustion.

But when you stay rooted in authenticity, you build not just wealth, but a legacy that reflects who you truly are.

Your Turn

Take a moment to reflect: Are you chasing the bag in a way that honors your full self?

Success doesn’t have to come at the expense of your identity, health, or joy. By defining success on your terms, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, you can achieve your goals while staying true to yourself.

P.S. Need an extra dose of inspiration and empowerment? Tune into the Space for Sistas® Podcast at www.spaceforsistas.com/podcast.