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What to Do When You’re Called to Lead but Tired of Building Alone.


By Dr. Dori B. Cook | NACR3: Strength. Resilience. Sparkle.

There is a particular ache that comes with being a visionary—a weight that builds when you’re the strategist, creator, motivator, accountant, and social media manager, often being the only one who truly sees the full vision.

Especially as a Black woman entrepreneur, you are not just building a business; you are carrying a legacy, rewriting narratives, and creating safe spaces where none existed before. The truth is, it gets heavy.

There are days you may wonder, “Why does it feel like I’m the only one who sees this?” 
Or worse: “Am I wrong for wanting more support?”

Let me offer this truth: You are not wrong. You are not weak. 
You are tired, and that’s honest. 
But you are also still chosen, and that is sacred.

The Lonely Burden of Vision

Being called to lead means you are wired to think differently and see solutions others haven’t imagined. However, being the “first” or the “only” often means no blueprint and no built-in support system.

This loneliness in leadership isn’t talked about enough, especially when:

  • You’re the first in your family to launch a business.

  • Your network applauds you but doesn’t buy from you.

  • You serve others better than you serve yourself.

It can leave you feeling like the calling is clear, but the community is quiet.

Strategy: The "Circle of Three" Alignment Check

When you're tired but still deeply called, it’s time to check in with your Circle of Three:

1. The Mission – Is what I’m building still aligned with what I believe?

Refocus on your why. Has it shifted? Are you forcing a version of your business that no longer matches your purpose?

2. The Method – Is how I’m building this sustainable?

Look at your systems. Are they built to protect your time, joy, and rest, or are they built on panic and people-pleasing?

3. The Mirror – Am I leading from exhaustion or inspiration?

This is the moment to pause and ask: Is it time to delegate, delay, or delete? The answer might be all three—and that's okay.

You Were Never Meant to Carry It All

NACR3 teaches that leadership isn’t just about outcomes; it’s about embodied strength, authentic resilience, and the sparkle that shows up when you’re finally supported.

If you're reading this and you feel on edge, this is your reminder: You’re not being asked to quit the mission; you’re being asked to let it evolve so you can carry it with care, not with collapse.

💭 Reflection Prompt:

Where have I convinced myself that needing help makes me less of a leader?

🌟 Affirmation:

I was never meant to build alone. I am supported. I am seen. I am strong.

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