First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens! Though it is technically the second week of the year, this might feel like the first time you’re getting back into the swing of things after the holidays. Everyone is “circling back” in the new year, and we are back to normal again, but hopefully with a new outlook and some new intentions!
As we kick off the year, we welcome our first special guest of the year, Tanesha Halstead, founder of Virtually Centered Solutions. Tanesha discusses intentionality, self-care, and avoiding burnout with us. Her story is one of resilience and passion. As a first-generation entrepreneur, she built her business from the ground up, specializing in supporting small businesses through retreats, workshops, and tailored solutions.
Tanesha Halstead
Tanesha puts a lot of emphasis on intentionality, which is something we are focusing on a lot this month. She shares her thoughts on multitasking and provides some great insight on how to handle it all. She shares that that grouping related tasks can often help maintain focus without falling into the trap of constant mental switching. However, she has also learned the importance of slowing down and recognizing when multitasking takes away from mindfulness. For example, she might choose to listen to music during her workouts instead of podcasts, using that time as a moment of clarity and personal recharge, instead of putting the focus on the content of the podcasts.
She also shares with us her thoughtful approach to self-care. Tanesha stresses the importance of choosing self-care practices that best fit your own needs. Whether it’s spending a day at a Korean bathhouse, watering plants, or enjoying a solo dinner, Tanesha finds joy in both simple and intentional acts. Her message to us is pretty clear: self-care doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money on a fancy vacation, it’s about finding those little moments that bring us peace and happiness.
First Gen Forward: Intention Setting for the New Year
In this episode, we also discuss some of the implications of intentionality for mental health. During our Social Work with Sara segment, we talk a lot about the importance of conversations around emotional wellness. Tanesha and I stress how important it is to be mindful and set boundaries to maintain mental health. Burnout is real, and setting boundaries, even simple ones, can make a big difference.
As we wrapped up, Tanesha offers some advice for starting the year strong. She encourages us to keep it simple and stay true to what matters most to us. Don’t compare yourself to others, so focus on what your intentions are and what aligns with your values. Embrace your journey, celebrate small steps, and approach the new year with clarity and purpose.
For those that wish to connect with Tanesha, you can find her at www.
The First Gen Madrina/The Social Work Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to your needs.
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
Also, in case you have missed it, I recently announced a new branch of The First Gen Madrina called The Social Work Madrina. The Social Work Madrina will bring intentional support to social workers and more programming on mental health. Within TSWM, you will find The Madrina Network: A Community for Social Workers!
The community will be kicking off in March, just in time for National Social Work Month! Our community deserves more support, guidance and resources.
Soooooo are you ready? Here are some highlights of the community!
Monthly zoom calls to discuss the successes, challenges and needs of the social work community.
Opportunity to network with fellow social workers from all over the U.S!
Monthly workshops with different social work-related themes.
Optional coaching time with me for additional support!
Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for more information! Check out thefirstgenmadrina.com for more information soon!
¡Hasta pronto!
