Hey Black Girl! Are you tired of feeling like you’re not enough? In this episode of the Hello Black Girl Podcast, Purpose Coach Bailey Orenia shares powerful faith-based encouragement for Black women learning to embrace authenticity, overcome self-doubt, and stop the cycle of comparison.

LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS | LISTEN ON SPOTIFY | LISTEN ON iHeart

If you’ve ever looked at someone else’s success and thought, “I’ll never measure up,” you’re not alone. But let me tell you something with love and truth: God didn’t create you to compete, He created you to be authentic and serve others.

Today, let’s talk about embracing authenticity—especially when you don’t think you’re good enough.

Have you ever noticed how nature works in harmony? Some plants provide shade, others attract pollinators, and some produce fruit. Each has a unique purpose that enhances—not diminishes—the others.

But when we get caught in comparison, we miss our own assignment. We focus so much on someone else’s success that we neglect our own growth. Comparison is a thief. But authenticity? It gives life—not just to you, but to those around you.

🌸 Authenticity Over Comparison

This is the final step in our growth journey. It’s time to embrace your divine originality.

Let me tell you a quick story: A church friend came up to me and said, “Girl, I saw your twin at an event.” And I laughed and said, “I don’t have a twin.” Because truth is, there’s only one me—just like there’s only one you.

Flowers don’t compete with each other. Tulips don’t hustle to outshine roses. They bloom because that’s what they’re created to do. Your gifts are exactly what the world needs.

God’s Word tells us we are His workmanship—created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). That means your life has divine intention.

📖 1. Divine Design

1 Corinthians 12:4–6 says:

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

Even if you don’t feel “that different,” here’s the truth: No one else talks like you, thinks like you, or has your exact life experience. That’s not random. That’s intentional. What’s in you was placed there by God.

🌱 2. The Abundance Mindset

Let’s revisit John 10:10: The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy; but I came so that you may have life, and have it more abundantly.

God’s Kingdom operates on abundance, not scarcity. Think about a healthy ecosystem: the oak tree doesn’t try to grow rose petals, and rosebuds don’t shade the sunflowers. They grow in their lane—and thrive.

Your authenticity creates room for others to be themselves. That’s how abundance works. You being fully you gives others permission to do the same. There is more than enough room for all of us to grow.

🪞 3. You Reflect God’s Image

Genesis 1:27 says: So God created mankind in His own image; in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.

Every flower reflects a different part of God’s beauty. The lotus reflects purity. The oak, strength. The full bloom? His promise. You were created to reflect a unique piece of God’s character.

Your authenticity is not just about you—it’s about making God visible through you.

✍🏽 Three Ways to Embrace Your Originality

1. Perspective: What do you bring that others don’t? Journal your unique qualities and how they might serve God’s plan.
2. Identify Comparison: Be honest about who you compare yourself to. What triggers it? What does it steal from you?
3. Replace Comparison with Contribution: Write down three things you offer that others don’t. Choose one of them to bring into a real-life situation this week.

For example, maybe the person you compare yourself to is more dynamic, but you’re more intentional, more relatable, or better at breaking down complex ideas. That’s your gift. Use it.

🙏 A Prayer for Authenticity

Heavenly Father, thank You for creating each of us with intention and purpose. Help us see ourselves as masterpieces, not mistakes. Give us the courage to be authentic, not competitive. May we use our gifts to glorify You and serve others. Let our lives reflect Your creativity and abundance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

💬 Final Thoughts

Remember: Your assignment isn’t to compete with anyone else—it’s to complement others with your unique expression.

Thank you for joining me. We’ve talked about the difference between being stuck and being still, about how rejection is protection, about boundaries, healing, and growth. And now? We understand that our greatest purpose is to be authentically who God created us to be.

Until next time—bloom where you’re planted. And when someone asks you to do something that doesn’t serve you? Just smile and say: That is not my ministry.

Love you!

A Quick Word for the Woman Feeling Stuck

Alright, Black Girl, let’s pause real quick.

If you’ve been feeling unsure about your next move, stuck in a cycle of “almost” and “not yet,” or just know deep down that there’s more for you…You need my book:

Life Been Lifing: Don’t Be Distracted From Your Purpose

It’s a powerful (and easy!) read with mindset-shifting lessons and exercises to help you uncover your God-given purpose and walk in it boldly. Grab your copy at lifebeendlifing.com. Let this book be your guide to breakthrough.

About Bailey Orenia

With 20+ years as an entrepreneur and communications maverick, Bailey has empowered thousands through her unique blend of wisdom and relatability.

As an former XM Radio Host and BET.com pioneer, Bailey’s insights have been featured in The Washington Post, NBC, VISTAS Magazine, and more.

As author of “Life Been Lifing: Don’t Be Distracted from Your Purpose,” Bailey doesn’t just talk about purpose, she guides you through life’s chaos to find yours. Her no-nonsense approach cuts through the noise, offering clarity when you need it most.

Get Social With This Black Girl:

You May Also Like