First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens!
We hope you are enjoying the last little bits of summer and remembering to take time for self-care. Remember the importance of setting those boundaries for yourself and that you come first!
This week, we continue talking about this month’s theme, Boundaries as a First Gen, by welcoming our guest, Valeria Garcia. Valeria is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion in higher education. She explores the often-overlooked topic of boundaries, particularly within the first-generation experience. Valeria, a 1.5 first-gen immigrant from Mexico, shares with us her insights on how boundaries are not just a luxury but a necessity for living a balanced, purposeful life.
Valeria Garcia
Valeria’s journey is one many first-gens can relate to. Coming from a background where she was expected to always be available for her family and give her all to her professional commitments, Valeria found herself about to burnout. Like many first-gens, she tied her worth to her productivity, constantly pushing herself to do more. This mindset, while common, is unsustainable and can lead to long-term mental and physical exhaustion.
Valeria’s turning point came when she realized that her dedication to her job and her family was taking a negative toll on her mental health. She began to understand that boundaries are essential for self-preservation. She began to set time boundaries, which included taking her work email off of her phone, especially during vacations. This small step helped her to truly disconnect from the pressure of work and enjoy the time to herself.
Boundaries as a First Gen
It’s important to note that setting boundaries is not just about saying no to others. It’s about saying yes to yourself. Valeria shares with us how she learned through her own experiences that it’s okay to prioritize personal wellness. This shift in mindset is not always easy, especially when it involves setting boundaries with family members. However, Valeria found that open, honest communication was key. By explaining her needs and the reasons behind her boundaries, she discovered that her family was more understanding and supportive than she had expected they would be.
Valeria reminds us that boundaries are a form of self-care, not selfishness. They allow us to protect our mental health, maintain our well-being, and ultimately, lead more fulfilling lives. As Valeria shares with us, it’s about finding freedom—freedom to be, to do, and to experience life on your terms. For more information on The First Gen Professional Network, the amazing networking group that Valeria created, find it here https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13704957/.
The First Gen 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 the needs of the client.
Join Sara, The First Gen Madrina, for individual coaching and/or group coaching. The journey can often feel lonely but that does not mean that you are alone! Check out the Our Services tab on our website for more information! http://
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.
In conclusion, stay tuned to meet amazing first-generation guests for the podcast, endless topics related to the first-gen experience and transformational coaching! Sara is your go to Madrina for all things first gen!
¡Hasta pronto!
