What We're Reading: The Most-Buzzed-About Links From the C&C Team Slack Channel

Photo: Create & Cultivate

Welcome to the latest installment of What We’re Reading, a bi-monthly series in which we share the most talked-about links from the Create & Cultivate team Slack channel. Scroll on to find out what the C&C team is currently discussing and join in on the conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments section. This week, the most-talked-about links spanned ____ to ___

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6 Tips for Creating a Productive Work-From-Home Environment

Working from home. It sounds great in theory, but it actually takes a lot of discipline to establish a routine that makes working from home productive and fulfilling. Given that many companies are currently implementing work from home policies to help flatten the curve and prevent the spread of COVID-19, I feel compelled to share my tried-and-true tips for creating a productive work-from-home environment.

As someone who’s been freelancing and working from home for the past five years, I’ve gone through all of the ups and downs WFH life can present—from feeling lonely and needing to talk to someone to needing to get out of the house and take a break (while practicing social distancing, of course). Scroll on for my tips on how to create a dedicated work space, set office hours, eliminate distracts, and more.

Create a Dedicated Work Space

Find a place in your home that you can dedicate to work. This will be different for everyone, and while I highly encourage having a desk, a dining room table or breakfast bar are great substitutes.

I don’t recommend your workspace be on your couch or on anything where you can recline. While I love being on my laptop and having my feet up on my couch, I am never as productive as I am when sitting upright.

When choosing a space for work in your home, try to find an area that has the following:

Find a space that you can check-in for work and check-out for everything you’d typically do while at home.

Set Office Hours

As a freelancer, it’s incredibly important to have office hours. Not only to manage client expectations but to give yourself structure.

Setting office hours should empower you to develop a routine for yourself like you typically would if you had a 9-to-5 office job. You’d wake up in the morning, enjoy your morning cup of coffee, maybe squeeze in a yoga class before you get dressed, and head to work. The same should be taken into consideration when you work from home.

Freelance life is supposed to allow you to do all of the things you want to do with your time. Don’t let it create an opposite effect where you convince yourself to always be on and working just because you’re able to do it from the freedom of your own home.

Eliminate Distractions

It’s so important to eliminate any distractions from your home that would take you away from getting work done. For me, I need my home to be clean - period. If the home isn’t tidy, I’m not focused.

Other distractions I try to eliminate are:

If you find yourself being distracted by a common theme throughout your days, find a way to eliminate that distraction so you can stay focused and do your best work.

Get Out of Your PJs

We all have days where we want to stay in our PJs, but it’s important to get out of the jammies and into something that says, “my day has started.”

Most of the time I will change out of PJs and into activewear or comfortable denim. I’ll wash my face, brush my teeth and hair, put on some CC cream and deodorant, and then get to work. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference.

Talk To Someone

One of the biggest things I didn’t realize about working from home is just how lonely it can be.

You are by yourself all day and unless you have clients who love phone calls, most of your correspondence will primarily be done through email. It’s important to talk to someone; anyone. Make time to pick up the phone and call a relative or an old friend. Schedule calls with people in your network so you don’t lose your conversation skills.

I realized a change in myself probably around my second or third year of freelancing, where I would struggle with conversation because I just wasn’t having any. I’d either talk too long or too fast, have difficulty forming sentences, and just felt awkward. This is not me.

Now I talk to everyone.

I am not shy when it comes to conversation and make an effort to have a casual chat with just about anybody I come into contact with throughout the day. That’s people I pass by when I’m walking the dogs, the barista at Alfred’s, Anthony who does my nails at Olive & June, Mary who delivers our mail… AN-Y-BOD-Y.

Get Out of the House

How many of you working from home and reading this typically don’t leave your house during the workweek? 🙋 I get it.

Your home is your office and your office is your home, but it’s still important to get out of the house every once in a while. Keep yourself active and engaged with things happening in your community so you can get out of your PJs, talk to somebody, and enjoy those office hours! (You like what I did there?)

It’s important to get outside and break away from work so you can actually stay engaged in work.

When I spend hours on my computer without any breaks my mind becomes fatigued, and I become less productive. So I’ll take the dogs for a longer walk, do a workout class on my balcony, or take my laptop to the coffee shop down the road and just take in a bit of new scenery to help adjust my internal boss mode.

So if you’re feeling uninspired or having trouble getting anything done, give yourself a break and get out.

About the author: Audrey Adair is a seasoned freelance communications professional and founder of The Scope, a platform providing resources and community to freelancers and the self-employed. Connect with The Scope on Instagram and join their email list to receive your free resource, The Freelancer Starter Kit.

This story was originally published on March 5, 2019, and has since been updated.

10 Work-Life Balance Books That Belong on Your To-Read List

Achieving your career goals, trying to be a successful adult, and keeping your personal life in check can sometimes feel impossible. (If you’re juggling a million tasks and still trying to find time to watch The Bachelor with the girls, trust us, we know the struggle). But no matter how often you may feel overwhelmed, it’s important to know that you can find the balance you’re looking for—it may just take a new way of thinking and organizing your everyday life. 

Luckily, there are resources and mentors with proven methods and insights that will help you find the balance between living your best life and getting to work on time. No one ever said achieving work-life balance would be easy, but with these 10 insightful new books, you will be well on your way to reaching both your professional and personal goals in no time. Written by 10 fierce females who know a thing or two about running their own businesses and carving out time for themselves, you’ll find true wisdom and hope in the pages of these self-help and business-focused books. 

From the creator of one of the biggest natural hygiene companies to Netflix sensation Marie Kondo to a single mother from the Middle East who rose to the top of the tech industry, these books will leave you with anecdotes that will help you find the work-life balance you’ve been craving. If you want to find the perfect work-life balance, add these insightful books to your to-read pile ASAP.

Written by Ashley Johnson, content editor, She Reads.

About the Author:

Ashley Johnson is the content editor at She Reads, an online media outlet that specializes in promoting books and authors with a female-centric approach. In addition to editorial roundups, exclusive author content and thought pieces, She Reads is committed to building a community of readers who love nothing more than getting lost in a good book.

Up next: Gwyneth Paltrow, Marie Kondo, Tyra Banks, and More on the #1 Book They Always Recommend

This story was originally published on March 13, 2019, and has since been updated.

9 Secrets to Working Remotely From Your Apartment & Loving It

If working from home has become your new normal, then you’ve probably come to the same realization that we have: Working from your bed in your pajamas just isn’t cutting it anymore.

Maybe you’ve started missing the office and wearing blazers (and, dare we say, heels?!), but there are plenty of perks to WFH if you do it right. It’s all about creating the right environment, ditching distractions, learning what works for you, and finding your productive streak.

Working from home presents both advantages and disadvantages for any telecommuter, but for those of us who live in an apartment, telecommuting has its own set of challenges. Consider the following tips and tricks to turn your place into a work environment where you can get the job done.

1. Carve out a cozy workspace.

Apartments in cities tend to be tight on space, which can cut down on the available areas where you can work uninterrupted.

The most important thing to do before you start working out of your apartment is to think about where you plan to situate your home office to conduct business effectively. Identify potential workspaces that lie outside regular traffic patterns. Working at the kitchen table might be fine if you live alone, but if you live with a spouse or roommate or have children, you need a place away from the action.

For example, rethink your underused rooms. Consider using a small guest bedroom, place a cubicle panel or screen in a corner of your own bedroom, or modify a walk-in closet to accommodate a desk and bookcase. Wherever you set up your office, you’ll need to make sure you have excellent Wi-Fi and cell phone service in order to conduct business—so a room in the center of a brick building might not be conducive to your productivity.

2. Decorate your space.

Just because your space is small doesn’t mean you have to skimp on decorating. Turning your own quiet nook into a place with personality can increase your desire to be there for long hours. Hang your favorite photos or works of art, bring in plants, or add knick-knacks and keepsakes.

Studies have shown that certain colors have a direct effect on our mood and productivity. When painting, papering or choosing furnishings for your space, keep these ideas in mind:

3. Learn how to deal with distractions.

Nothing zaps your productivity faster when working from home than having to respond to distractions. Whether you have kids running in and out, a spouse looking for their favorite shirt, or the neighbors in the apartment above practicing their tap dancing skills, dealing effectively with distractions is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

To drown out barking dogs, traffic on the street, or even your roommate streaming a marathon of their favorite Netflix show, choose noise-canceling headphones that help you focus on the task at hand. Before you sit down to work, turn off noisy appliances or hang a fiberglass blanket over the door to block out noise. Plan ahead for conference calls or phone conversations with potential clients, or make sure to schedule them for times when you know you will be alone.

4. Store inventory off-site.

If you have a business that requires inventory and you don’t have space at home to store the merchandise, consider renting a storage unit. The extra space you’ll find after moving unnecessary items to storage can make it easier to stay organized and keep your personal belongings separate from items required for work.

5. Dress for the office.

While it may be tempting to sit around in your pajamas all day when you work from home, it can help to treat your remote work like traditional employment by wearing designated work clothes. Getting up in the morning and getting dressed for work helps you separate your private life from your professional one, further preparing you mentally for your job.

6. Identify a specific scent with work.

Another way to distinguish time to work from personal time is by designating a specific scent for work. Burn a candle, turn on a diffuser, or even wear perfume during your office hours.

7. Invest in productivity tools.

Make your home office feel more like a traditional office space by investing in appropriate supplies. Choose a notepad and pens—and perhaps even a computer—designated solely for work. Keep in mind that office supplies qualify as expenses related to your home office and are usually deductible at tax time.

The same is true for software. Countless apps and online services are available to help home workers with correspondence and communication, scheduling, collaborating on tasks across multiple projects, or measuring productivity to make sure you’re keeping up. Marketing software can help you enhance your client interactions, and accounting software can help with tracking time and expenses.

8. Give your day some structure.

Just because you work from home doesn’t mean you can’t implement some structure in your workday. Use your peak hours effectively. Consider the time of day when you are most alert and use that time to accomplish your biggest goals. Schedule work time and try to avoid personal activities (or at least relegate them to designated breaks).

At the end of the day, power off your electronics, turn off your work phone and move away from your desk or work surface. Also, avoid taking your laptop to bed to work or working from the couch. This can make it harder to separate work time from personal time and unwind later.

9. Communicate with colleagues.

If you are working for a company, be sure to communicate regularly with your colleagues. This can help you remain connected with company goals and stay up to date on any progress made for team projects. Regular dialogue with co-workers also reminds you that you’re a part of a team and keeps you from feeling isolated.

Working remotely can provide numerous benefits for employees, companies, and even clients. It also can be mightily challenging when space is limited. Take advantage of the work-at-home opportunity by setting up an optimal space, figuring out what keeps you motivated and connected, and sticking with it until each day’s work is done.

Written by Laura Gayle of BusinessWomanGuide.org.

This post was published on January 5, 2019, and has since been updated.

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7 Reasons You Should Declutter and Organize Your Desk Right Now

Photo: ColorJoy Stock

It’s hard not to fall prey to the American drive to have more. We live in a consumer-driven culture. Case in point, one of the first idioms I learned was, “Keeping up with the Joneses.” But as we fritter away our hard-earned money on “stuff,” we start to accumulate more than we can actually handle. Before we know it, we’re drowning in the byproducts of capitalism.

Years and years of this “more” mentality has caused a subtle shift in our culture. Many of us are starting to seek a more simplified life. We’re looking to surround ourselves only with the things we either truly love or truly need.

However, actually obtaining (and maintaining) such a lifestyle means getting rid of a lot of possessions—and then organizing what’s left. Although this may seem like an insurmountable task, it’s ultimately worthwhile.

Why?

Because decluttering and organizing feels amazing.

It's a Rush

Did you know that decluttering and organizing releases endorphins? One of the main reasons why these tasks are so satisfying is because our brains are literally pouring on the feel-good chemicals. This leads to reduced stress and anxiety and improves our mood! 

One way to really get those endorphins flowing is to take on a task that you perceive to be more difficult or challenging than others. For instance, consider organizing your digital photos. According to a survey by Everpresent, 83% of families have not consolidated their digital photos into a single library. Gathering all of your photos into one place, arranging and labeling them, and then uploading them to an online library or external hard drive can take many hours (or even days). That said, the rush you’ll get when the job is done and your precious memories are safe will be well worth it!

It Gives You a Sense of Accomplishment

So many of life’s little chores don’t leave you with an observable end product. You work and work and work, and… nothing. Decluttering and organizing, however, delivers results you can really see. And believe it or not, achieving these results can have positive effects in other areas of your life.

When you accomplish a goal—even a small one such as cleaning out the junk drawer—you gain confidence. You realize that you can succeed when you put your mind to something. The more of these tasks you accomplish, the more confidence you build. These repeated triumphs arm you with the courage you need to face all of life’s challenges.

It Gives You Control

Creating a clean desk space gives you a sense of control over your environment. Since we often feel a lack of control in other areas of our lives, having this control over our homes is incredibly comforting (even if it’s only on a subconscious level).

What’s more, there’s actually an evolutionary need for that control. Humans are wired to keep track of their surroundings at all times. We’re naturally drawn to uncluttered spaces that are easier to scan—and when we’re safely within them, we feel more relaxed.                 

It's Meditative

It’s a strange thing to say, but the mindlessness of cleaning is actually one of its biggest perks. The physical elements of housework are often simple, repetitive tasks. This makes the activity highly meditative. Whether you listen to music or podcasts while you clean or let the silence of the house take over, allowing your brain to take a break from everyday thoughts while you clean is the perfect way to meditate while staying active.

It Makes You Feel Better

Disorganization can have a terrible effect on your sense of self-worth. If your home is cluttered and dirty, it’s not hard to internalize. The more disordered and disheveled your environment becomes, the worse you end up feeling about yourself.

 A 2010 study from the University of California revealed that women who described their homes as being cluttered or filled with unfinished projects were more likely to be depressed and fatigued than women who characterized their living spaces as being restful and restorative. They also found that women who lived in cluttered environments had higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

It’s a Stress-Buster

Speaking of stress, clutter is surprisingly hard on our brains. Your brain is constantly processing visual information, and too much clutter can make it hard for it to be efficient. Keeping your home decluttered and organized helps to reduce unnecessary stimuli and allows you to stay focused on your goals.

It Makes Life Easier

One of the greatest reasons to declutter (besides it feeling awesome) is as a segue into a minimalist lifestyle. Every item you get rid of is one less thing you have to find a place for, regularly clean, maintain, and repair. The fewer items you own, the less time and energy you have to spend on taking care of things. Instead of collecting stuff for the sake of having it, only purchase and hold onto the items that mean something to you or you genuinely need.

It Empowers You to Move Forward

Have you ever kept an item strictly because you felt obligated to? An invitation to a friend’s wedding or a ticket stub from a concert? Sometimes the only reason we save items is that we feel responsibility, nostalgia, or even guilt when we look at them. But, in the spirit of minimalism, if we don’t love or use something, there’s no reason to keep it. Getting rid of these items will help you stay focused on the present and the future, rather than burdened by the past.

More and more people are starting to realize that the decades-old crusade to accumulate as many worldly goods as possible doesn’t always lead to happiness. In fact, it’s quite the opposite—too much stuff can lead to added stress and anxiety. Taking time to declutter and organize your home is a surefire way to feel more relaxed, in control, and at peace. And that’s worth all the money in the world!

About the author: Liz Greene is a feminist, makeup enthusiast, and anxiety-ridden realist from the beautiful city of trees, Boise, Idaho. When she’s not writing, she enjoys eating fancy cheeses, fantasizing about what life would be like if she had an Iron Man suit, and re-watching Venture Bros. episodes for the 100th time. 

This post was originally published on September 24, 2018, and has since been updated.

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10 Two-Minute Habits That Will Change Your Life

Photo: Create & Cultivate

For most of us, mornings are rough. We snooze, wake, repeat. Jump out of bed. Java. And then start firing off emails and Slacks. It's no way to greet the day and its disruptive energy that carries into our work. To help you kick-start your day the right way, here are 10 tiny, two-minute switches that are easy to implement and can have a major impact on your day. So, what are you waiting for? It's only your life. 

1. CONSCIOUS BREATHING

When you feel anxious, you disrupt the ease and flow of your breath. You might not even notice these slight disruptions in your breathing pattern and how they affect you. But reestablishing normal breathing restores your energy and focus.

How to do it: Breath in through the nose for a count of five. Feel as though there’s a balloon that is filling your entire pelvis and causing it to stretch out in all directions. Hold that inhale for a moment, and when you exhale, contract all the muscles in and up the spine as you exhale for a count of five. Hold the exhale for a moment and repeat 10 times. Do this whenever you feel stressed.

2. CHEW SLOWLY

It’s not just what you eat that matters, it’s also how you eat it. You can eat all the highly nutritious food you desire, but if you don’t chew your food well, it can lead to indigestion, bloating, and lack of nutrient absorption. The more you chew, the more saliva you produce. Saliva coats the particles of food with enzymes that break it down for better nutrient absorption.

How to do it: Chewing 25 times per bite helps cultivate more mindful eating. You eat in a more relaxed state of mind, which aids digestion. Plus, the more slowly you eat, the less you’re likely to consume because you’re giving your body time to let you know you’re full.

“Reestablishing normal breathing restores your energy and focus.”

3. SIP ON WARM LEMON WATER

Skip the ice in your cup and add warm lemon water to your daily routine instead. First thing in the morning your body needs to be rehydrated. Warm lemon water quenches thirst, preps and primes your digestive system, aids in detoxification, and supplies a free-radical-crushing dose of vitamin C. Lemons may taste acidic, but they are actually alkaline forming, helping the body maintain an ideal pH balance and neutralizing free radicals to keep you feeling vivacious and looking vibrant. “Lemon water benefits the enzyme functions in your body, stimulating the liver and flushing out toxins,” says Josh Axe, DNM.

4. TAKE MOVEMENT BREAKS

When it comes to improving your movement, it’s not just about doing your workout for an hour in the morning and checking it off the list. Your body thrives on movement. More movement all throughout the day is highly beneficial for your body and brain. Mobility exercises help lubricate the joints to ward off stiffness, aid in circulation and help boost energy levels and increase focus and productivity. For every hour of sitting, aim for at least a few minutes of mobility drills, such as alternating between arm backstrokes and pelvic circles.

“More movement all throughout the day is highly beneficial for your body and brain.”

5. FIX YOUR POSTURE

Proper posture—with the spine aligned and the joints stacked—puts your body at ease, reduces tension and strain and ensures that muscles and tissues are well oxygenated and receive nutrients for proper function.

How to do it: Katy Bowman, biomechanist and natural-movement expert, recommends first aligning the outside edges of your feet with a straightedge. Then make sure your feet are hip-distance apart. Press all four corners of your feet into the ground. Make sure your pelvis is over your heels. Engage your thighs to lift your kneecaps, squeeze your glutes, keep you chest lifted with the bottom ribs tucked in, and keep your head in a neutral position with chin slightly tucked.

6. TAKE OFF YOUR SHOES

One of the greatest health tools is right under your feet, literally. Earthing, or walking or standing barefoot on the ground, sounds simple enough, but how often are you actually barefoot outside? It may sound a bit hippie, but a 2012 review published in the Journal of Environmental Public Health found that research supports the touted benefits of going barefoot, which include improved mood and sleep and reduced inflammation and chronic pain. Just don’t step on any rusty nails!

“Proper posture—with the spine aligned and the joints stacked—puts your body at ease, reduces tension and strain.”

7. DRY BRUSH YOUR SKIN

Take care of your body’s largest organ: Your skin. Dry brushing is a natural technique that can reveal the beauty of your skin by sloughing off dead skin cells as it stimulates the lymphatic system. Dry brushing has also been credited with giving the skin a natural, luminous glow.

How to do it: Purchase a dry brush with natural bristles. Start at your feet and brush in long, sweeping motions toward your heart (avoiding the face) without applying too much pressure. Don’t dry brush for too long or too often. Try just a few minutes once a week.

8. SET AN INTENTION

When you want to break out of your comfort zone or start a new healthy habit, you must first have a strong intention to do so. As Wayne Dyer, author of “The Power of Intention,” said, “The power of intention is the power to manifest, to create, to live a life of unlimited abundance, and to attract into your life the right people at the right moments.” You can set an intention for every action in your life. Before eating, set an intention to eat mindfully. Before working out, connect to your intention. Ask yourself, “What are you aiming to achieve?”

“Keep your vibe high and light by filtering out the noise and filling yourself up with gratitude throughout each day. ”

9. APPLY SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen isn’t just for summertime. Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen daily because, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. Yikes! Even if you’re not hanging outdoors for a long period of time, UVA rays that cause wrinkles and premature aging can pass through window glass. Check the ingredients on your sunscreen and look for one with the mineral zinc oxide for UVA protection. If you’re going to be outside for an extended length of time (at least two hours) look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 that’s sweat and water-resistant.

10. EXPRESS GRATITUDE

Western society is constantly telling us we need to be more, do more, have more, and achieve more. It can be depleting and depressing. Keep your vibe high and light by filtering out the noise and filling yourself up with gratitude throughout each day. There have been numerous studies regarding the positive effects a daily gratitude practice has on the mind, body, and spirit.

How to do it: Keep a journal in which you jot down what you’re grateful for each evening before bed or when you wake up in the morning. Try writing affirmations, positive things about yourself and your life. Or write a thank-you note to someone to say how grateful you are to have him or her in your life.

Love this story? Pin the below graphic to your Pinterest board.

This story was originally published on May 21, 2018, and has since been updated.

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Losing Sleep Over Tomorrow's To-Do List? You Need to Declutter Your Mindset (Here’s How)

Photo: ColorJoy Stock

When we think of "clutter," most of us picture an episode of “Hoarders” or hear the soothing voice of Marie Kondo (two very different ends of the spectrum). But even the tidiest among us struggle with messes we can't see: mental clutter.

Clearing your mental clutter is the best way to invite peace and calm back into your day-to-day life. Here's how to recognize, clear, and recover from a cluttered mindset.

Physical vs. Mental Clutter

Physical clutter is easy to recognize: the clothes piled on the floor, that "junk drawer" in the kitchen, the trash on the floor of your car. Mental clutter, on the other hand, is a little harder to spot. And unfortunately, it can be even more detrimental to your mental health than a physical mess.

Mental clutter takes many forms, but it most often shows itself as overwhelm:

• Losing sleep over tomorrow's to-do list

• Forgetting important tasks or dates because you're juggling too many responsibilities

• Constantly feeling tired, drained, or overworked

• Having little motivation to do anything after work (even things you usually enjoy)

• Neglecting self-care in favor of work or family responsibilities

What Causes Mental Clutter?

If you're feeling like this, you're not alone! So many of us let our little stresses pile up over time, creating a “Hoarders”-style mound of mental clutter.

Just like small slips create clutter over time, small improvements can clear it out, create space for calm, and help you step into a clutter-free mindset.

Some of the biggest contributors to mental clutter are:

• Your phone and computer. Between the endless notifications and opportunities to distract ourselves, it's no wonder our digital lives are full of clutter. I'd never tell you to break up with your devices entirely, but in order to eliminate the stress they cause, you have to reevaluate your relationship with them.

• Your to-do list and calendar. How much time do you spend stressing about that ever-growing to-do list? All those tasks and appointments add clutter to your life. The trick is prioritizing the important stuff and eliminating the rest.

• Your daily routine. If you're regularly switching between tasks, procrastinating on projects, or just not finishing your work, it's time to streamline and declutter your daily routine.

These all create and perpetuate mental clutter, but they're also some of the best places to invite calm back into your life. That's what decluttering is all about: clearing out the junk to make space for the good stuff.

How to Declutter Your Mindset

Decluttering your mindset doesn't happen overnight, but there are real steps you can take towards a more peaceful life. Follow these steps to decluttering your physical and digital space, and watch the mindset decluttering follow suit.

Step 1: Take stock of your environment.

Before you can start decluttering your mindset, you have to get real about everything that's contributing to your overwhelm. Grab a journal and let's take a good, long look at your environment.

How many notifications do you get in a day? How much time do you spend staring at screens? What does your desk look like?

Now, be honest with yourself about your stress level. How often do you think about those notifications, worry about emails, or lose sleep over your to-do list? Do you have a healthy work-life balance? Do you feel well-rested?

This part isn't going to feel good. That's okay. Having a clear starting point is the key to mapping your way out of the clutter.

Step 2: Envision your decluttered life.

Next, imagine what your life would look like entirely decluttered. No need to picture your home Kardashian-level clear or your to-do list entirely empty. Just figure out what your ideal day-to-day life looks like:

• How would you start your day?

• What would your workspace look like?

• How much work would you get done in a day, and how would you feel about that work?

• How would you wind down in the evenings?

Don't hold anything back! Dream up your ideal life, and make that visualization part of your daily routine. Meditate on it, journal about it, put it on your vision board, whatever you like. When you keep your goals front-and-center, you'll be more likely to make subconscious decisions that get you closer to it. (That's manifestation at work!)

Step 3: Set boundaries.

This is where the actual decluttering happens. Compare your present to the decluttered life you want to get to and start making adjustments towards that goal.

Here are some easy first steps:

• Turn off notifications on your phone.

• Tidy your workspace, and surround yourself with positive images and affirmations. (I love a good vision board!)

• Check off small to-do items you've been procrastinating on, like doctors' appointments and home maintenance.

• Delete old, unused files and emails from your computer.

• Set aside part of your day to spend time away from screens.

• Schedule self-care into your daily and weekly calendars.

• Commit to starting your day without your phone in hand and putting your devices away an hour before bedtime.

• Donate clothes you no longer wear, books you won't re-read, or anything in your home that's taking up space.

These tiny changes will set your decluttering in motion. Plus, the fewer external distractions you have, the less internal clutter you'll have to deal with.

Step 4: Practice self-care.

Newsflash: Not all self-care is fun. Sure, it sometimes looks like bubble baths and face masks. Other times, it's way less glamourous. But that doesn't mean it's any less necessary!

The not-so-pretty parts of self-care are where the true mental decluttering takes place. By working through the stressors in your life, you create space for more peace and calm. It's not easy, but it's definitely worth it.

You can practice self-care and declutter your life by...

• Taking control of your finances. Money is the greatest stressor in our adult lives, and it's also a huge source of clutter. Organize your accounts, start tracking your money, and make a plan to pay off debts.

• Dance-clean your space. Even if you hate household chores, there's something therapeutic about blasting your favorite music and dancing while you clean.

• Get outside. Fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for your mental health. Take a walk outside (without headphones!) to refresh your body and declutter your thoughts.

• Plan your week. Grab your planner and outline your projects, meetings, and self-care time throughout the week. A solid schedule leaves less time for distraction and clutter.

• Talk it out. When in doubt, reach out to a close friend, a family member, or a therapist to talk through your mental clutter. They might be able to recognize stressors you can't see in your own life.

Of course, make time for fun self-care, too! Any form of undistracted, intentional self-care re-centers your focus on what really matters. And the more energy you devote to taking care of yourself, the less likely you'll be to fall back into old patterns of distraction and self-sabotage.

Decluttering Your Mindset Takes Time

Decluttering your space and your devices won't magically declutter your mind, but it does get the ball rolling. Over time, you'll notice your inner thoughts start to settle as your environment becomes more controlled. And as you prioritize self-care, your body will finally get to recover from the stress that builds up day-to-day. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

If you’re working on your self-care routine, get my free phone boundaries guide, check out my holistic decluttering course on everything we just covered or follow me over on Instagram for more self-care tips.

“Decluttering your mindset doesn't happen overnight, but there are real steps you can take towards a more peaceful life.”

—Livia Boerger, Self-Care Coach

About the Author: Livia Boerger offers a fresh approach to self-care and teaches that it’s never too expensive, time-consuming, or long bubble baths surrounded by candles. She is on a mission to help high-achieving female entrepreneurs redefine self-care on their terms, prioritize rest and live intentionally so that they can live a calm life free of overwhelm.

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10 New Beach Reads We Can't Wait to Take on Vacation

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

Now that it’s officially summer, chances are you’re looking for your next beach read. Ahead, we’ve compiled a list for all of you Create & Cultivators who crave career-driven fiction with strong female characters and non-fiction reads that will give you a boost to become an even better version of yourself. Whether you’re in the mood for some self-help, a sexy thriller, sweet romance, or a bit of office drama, there’s something for everyone.

"Your Fully Charged Life" by Meaghan B. Murphy

$24

SHOP

This book is the perfect guide for becoming more energetic, happy, and fully charged every day. Written by magazine editor Meaghan B. Murphy, this guide is filled with personal experiences, learnings from positive psychology and neuroscience, and inspiring stories. It presents new ways, big and small, that you can make a difference in all aspects of your life and impact others in a positive way.

"While We Were Dating" by Jasmine Guillory

$15

SHOP

Ben Stephens has more to worry about than getting in a committed relationship, including family drama and a huge ad campaign he just landed with Anna Gardiner, a major movie star. Anna is using this ad campaign as a distraction as she waits to hear if she landed the role in a big movie that will make her a household name. Ben and Anna are instantly attracted to each other and their flirtations turn serious after Ben helps Anna during a family emergency. They soon plan to turn their infatuation into something more suited for the spotlight, but will they both be content with this fake setup?

"Just One Look" by Lindsay Cameron

$25

SHOP

After falling from the corporate ladder, Cassie Woodson takes a temp job reviewing correspondence for a fraud suit in order to pay her bills. After finding emails sent between Forest Watts and his wife, Cassie becomes invested and starts to find meaning in her life again. She starts spending her days reading over their email exchanges, slowly becoming more and more obsessed with their lives. After staging a chance meeting with Forest, Cassie starts devising a plan to take his wife’s place.

"Dream First, Details Later" by Ellen Marie Bennett

$25

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Written by entrepreneur and founder of the multi-million-dollar company, Hedley & Bennett, Ellen Marie Bennett provides a simple guide to following your dreams, no matter what. Inspired by her experience as a 24-year-old line cook who offered to make new aprons for the kitchen staff even though she had no company or plan, she offers a new perspective on following your dreams by crushing doubt and second guesses. Pick up this book to learn how to step out of your comfort zone and get started on a dream project.

"Del Rio" by Jane Rosenthal

$16

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District Attorney Callie McCall has slowly watched her hometown, Del Rio, California, go from a thriving farm town to a run-down, dying town. She decides that now the perfect time to launch her political career and attempt to make a difference in the town she was born and raised in. However, when the dismembered body of a migrant teen is found in one of Del Rio's surrounding citrus groves, Callie faces a career make-or-break case that takes her to the west coast of Mexico and a secretive tropical paradise before coming back home to face the most politically connected and wealthiest family: her own.

"The Other Black Girl" by Zakiya Dalila Harris

$25

SHOP

Nella Rogers faces isolation and microaggression as the only Black employee at Wagner Books. When Hazel, a new Black editorial assistant, arrives and works next to Nella’s cubicle, she is overjoyed to have someone to talk to. However, Hazel is soon elevated as the office darling and leaves Nella far behind. Soon after, threatening notes start appearing on Nella’s desk telling her to leave Wagner immediately. Confused by the notes, she assumes Hazel has left the notes behind but soon realizes that there is more at stake than her job.

"The Heart Principle" by Helen Hoang

$15

SHOP

Anna Sun accidentally achieves success when her YouTube video of her playing the violin becomes viral. Soon after the video’s success, Anna finds it difficult to replicate the video and becomes burnt out as a result. On top of that, her longtime boyfriend asks for an open relationship before committing to more, hurting Anna deeply. She decides to participate in an open relationship as well, planning on multiple one-night stands with the most unacceptable men. Anna soon meets Quan Diep, who accepts her unconditionally and offers more than sex. When tragedy strikes her family and Anna takes on an unexpected role, she and Quan end up fighting for their chance at a relationship.

"Mona at Sea" by Elizabeth Gonzalez James

$15

SHOP

After graduating college at the top of her class and the job of her dreams in her grasp, everything seems to be working perfectly for perfectionist Mona Mireles. That is, until the 2008 recession strikes, and she ends up unemployed and living with her parents. Mona finds herself completely adrift in life and love and is on the path of a downward spiral of bitterness and self-pity. She uses humor and a cynic outlook in order to face her new life which is filled with job searching, navigating her parent’s failing marriage, and figuring out the complexity of adulthood.

"The Photographer" by Mary Dixie Carter

$26

SHOP

Delta Dawn makes a living from taking photos of New York’s elite and editing them to look like perfect, happy families to their viewers. She spends her days hopping from one photo shoot to the next, but when she takes pictures for the Straub family, she doesn’t want to leave and finds herself wanting to be part of the family’s glamourous life. From babysitting their daughter to becoming a close family friend, Delta seems to have everything in place until questions are raised and she soon finds out that manipulation doesn’t come as easy.

"Write My Name Across the Sky" by Barbara O’Neal

$23

SHOP

Gloria Rose is an influencer in her ‘70s living her best life in the Upper West Side with thousands of Instagram followers who adore her. However, everything starts to fall apart when her old lover is arrested for art theft and forgery. Gloria decides to run, but her plan gets complicated when she must help the nieces she raised. Willow has returned home after a failed album and relationship while Sam faces the imminent loss of her video game company and her boyfriend due to her uncontrollable anger. The three women must work together to overcome their loss and face their future.

About the Author: Abby Cunningham is a junior at Auburn University studying public relations and minoring in marketing and industrial and graphic design processes. Abby is currently the online and social media editor for her school’s newspaper, The Auburn Plainsman. She is also a part of Auburn’s student-run public relations firm, literary magazine, and yearbook. Abby is usually found spending her day on TikTok, color coding her plans for the month, or settling down with a good book.

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We Traded Our Morning Coffee for Matcha Collagen for a Week—Here’s What Happened

How do you start your day? If you’re like 64% of Americans (ourselves included) it likely starts with a cup of coffee. In the mornings we like to practice what is known as “procaffeination,” or the tendency to not start anything until we’ve had at least one cup of coffee and until the caffeine has had a chance to kick in.

Coffee has become such a ubiquitous part of our lifestyle and our culture, with more Americans choosing it per day than any other beverage. But in the pandemic era of WFH, caffeine can become a mental and emotional crutch. More people are feeling the pressure of an always-on work culture with the shift from in-person meetings to virtual ones. This, combined with a year of irregular sleep schedules and coping with a collective uncertainty, can have you reaching for an extra cup (or four) to feel like you can keep up. In a world that doesn’t ever switch off, burnout is very real—and so is our addiction to caffeine. 

If you’re anything like us, it’s likely hard to imagine starting a typical morning without coffee—in fact, the mornings without coffee commit to memory in much greater detail–and so the thought of giving it up permanently seems unbearable. 

But, what if we told you there's a replacement that could give you natural, sustained energy without the caffeine crash you would normally get from coffee. What if it also included a variety of age-defying benefits as well as those for digestive health and joint health, AND improved endurance, while helping the body maintain balance with stress-relieving and immune-boosting properties.

Enter Further Food’s Matcha Collagen Peptides.

You’ve likely heard of matcha before; a high-grade green tea that has been ground into powdered form. Because of the unique way that it is grown and harvested, matcha has more antioxidants than other green teas and is considered a true nutritional powerhouse. 

Further Food combined delicious, superior tasting organic matcha (cultivated by a 10th level Japanese Tea Master, the highest level of Chasi and one of only 13 people in the world to hold this certificate) with their best-selling hydrolyzed collagen peptides and organic cordyceps mushroom into one clean label product that delivers all-day glow, all-day energy, and plenty of benefits.

These three ingredients are a powerful combination, according to Further Food’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Chris Oswald, D.C., Licensed Nutritionist and Functional Medicine Practitioner. “Collagen is great for a variety of beauty benefits such as glowing skin, thicker hair, and stronger nails. It also has additional benefits for digestive health and joint health. The combination of collagen with matcha and cordyceps mushrooms gives you a daily beauty fix while also delivering mental clarity and productivity benefits from the natural caffeine found in matcha and endurance and fatigue-fighting benefits associated with cordyceps.”

Inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine, Further Food's Matcha Collagen has all the benefits of collagen with the ancient healing powers of adaptogenic mushrooms. All of their products are formulated by doctors and backed by nutritionists, health experts, and herbalists.

If, by now, you’re feeling “matcha curious”, and wondering if you would survive or thrive if you traded your coffee for matcha for one week—well, so were we. 

So, the C&C put Further Food’s Matcha Collagen Peptides to the test for a week and logged our results. Keep scrolling to read the verdict! 

Jessica, Director, Accounts

FIRST IMPRESSION: To be totally honest, I am not normally a matcha fan which is actually why I was so eager to give up coffee for a week and add this to my morning ritual! I noticed how easily the powder blended with the steamed milk and the flavor was nice. I felt like I had ordered a $7 matcha latte!

FINAL VERDICT: I find that with my morning coffee, I can be jittery and anxious. I always crash around 2 or 3 PM and need another cup—with Further Food’s Matcha Collagen powder in my latte every day, I noticed sustained energy throughout the afternoon and early evening and didn’t even catch myself thinking about my cold brew! I also felt a lot more focused on each task, rather than jumping around my to-dos as I normally do, I really felt like I could spend the time needed to get my work done efficiently. Overall I feel good and am excited to keep this up to see how the collagen affects my skin.

JESS’S MATCHA RITUAL: Each morning, after I made myself and my (almost) two-year-old daughter breakfast, I made myself a hot matcha latte with steamed oat milk and one scoop of Further Food’s Matcha Collagen powder. Occasionally, I added a little bit of cinnamon, cardamom and honey just for a bit of an elevated morning drink and used my super whisk to make it really foamy! It was really nice to enjoy while we shared our breakfast.

Sarah, Associate Marketing Manager

FIRST IMPRESSION: I love a good matcha–so much that I justify spending $7 on one at a coffee shop here in Los Angeles, and mostly because I have never been successful at making it myself at home (though I’ve tried!). I have been on the hunt for a good matcha for a minute now, and I won’t name names but I still have a few pouches sitting in my pantry that just weren’t up to par. 

Naturally, I was a little nervous that this one would fall short but I was happily surprised. The matcha whisked together well, tasted as delicious as I expected, and I liked that it saved me an extra step by including collagen and cordyceps. Collagen has always been a part of my daily beauty routine–I definitely notice a difference in my hair, skin and nails when I’m incorporating it daily.

FINAL VERDICT: As a lover of at home coffee and a victim to not so great matchas of the past - I’m stoked to continue to incorporate Further Food’s Matcha Collagen into my morning routine! Not only was I happy to skip the step of adding my daily supplement of collagen to my morning beverage (work smarter, not harder!) but I genuinely saw a shift in my energy levels. 

I wasn’t watching the clock for the next appropriate time to have another cup of caffeine but was more often shocked when 4 PM rolled around and I had powered through the afternoon without my normal second cup. 

SARAH’S MATCHA RITUAL: I consider myself to be exclusively an iced beverage person, regardless of the temperature outside. This, for the most part, has made dissolving supplements in my morning beverage… tough, which is why I was pleasantly surprised at how easily Further Food’s Matcha Collagen dissolved, even at room temp.

Not to #humblebrag but I nailed my at home iced matcha latte and knowing that my matcha powder already was packed with the collagen I needed made the experience that much better. First thing in the morning, I boil some water and add a scoop and a half of the Matcha Collagen. After a good whisk, I set it aside to make myself some breakfast. When I’m ready, I pour my matcha over a big glass of ice, top it with some foamy oat milk, and enjoy! 

Drea, Director, Content

FIRST IMPRESSION: Coffee for me, is more about ritual than the caffeine. It signifies a moment all to myself each morning, before the day’s distractions and obligations begin, and where time is measured by volume of sips remaining rather than by the hands of a clock. Though I usually cap this ritual at one cup, I’ve practiced it since my college days. I was a bit nervous to see how my body would respond without the additional caffein and prepared myself for an epic headache–and was surprised that I felt…totally normal. 

As an avid collagen addict, I was really impressed with how well the powder dissolved in hot water – usually matcha requires a special whisk (and a little bit of effort) to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency. With only a few stirs, Further Food’s Matcha Collagen was completely blended, which is actually an indication of a high quality matcha. The taste was exactly what one would expect from matcha–no subtle notes of the collagen or cordyceps. 

FINAL VERDICT: Honestly, I think I may have become a bona fide matcha drinker as a result of this experiment. Especially towards the end of the week, I felt a noticeable difference in energy that was more sustained and less scattered. The matcha–and maybe the cordyceps or the combination of the two– provided a sense of calm and clarity that by comparison, made me realize how anxious coffee had been making me feel. I’m not sure I would have ever noticed the feeling if it weren’t for comparison. 

DREA’S MATCHA RITUAL: The first thing I do in the morning is put water on to boil. My matcha ritual is pretty minimalist, even more so than my coffee ritual without the extra step of adding collagen, but I might try adding it to smoothies next week (and will report back). Once the water boils, pour over 2 scoops of Further Food’s Matcha Collagen. Give it a few stirs and then add a splash of unsweetened oat milk. Sip and enjoy!

USE CODE: CC15 to get 15% off any Further Food product at FurtherFood.com (new customers only) 

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Short on Time? Micro Self-Care Is the Antidote to Burnout

Unprecedented was a defining characteristic of last year–and with it came unprecedented high rates of burnout. Employees and entrepreneurs are feeling the pressure of an ‘always on’ work culture more than ever with the shift from in-person meetings to virtual ones. Many people are feeling the effects of “Zoom Fatigue,” but women are still affected more. In the first large-scale study examining the full extent of Zoom fatigue, Stanford researchers found that women report feeling more exhausted than men following video calls – and the “self-view” display may be to blame. In a world that doesn’t ever switch off, burnout is very real, and the new science of ‘micro self-care’ might be the solution to prevent it.

Micro self-care emphasizes the benefits of engaging in small habits in our daily lives to have a positive influence on our well-being. While traditional forms of self-care usually require substantial commitments of time, effort and often financial resources, micro self-care practices are small activities that can be done in a few minutes (or less) and are flexible enough to be woven into the workday (or other scheduled activities). Even larger acts of self-care can transform into micro practices by distilling existing rituals you already love into their most powerful essences. For example, you might not be able to get to a yoga class today, but you can benefit from a single pose or stretch in between meetings. You might not be able to call in for a full day at the spa, but you can experience the same TLC for your skin with a microdermabrasion facial at home.

In light of Mental Health Awareness month, the team here at Create & Cultivate is prioritizing acts of micro self-care. That’s why we’re partnering with Dr. Brandt Skincare to transform their cult-favorite exfoliator into a weekly micro self-care ritual that supports the Dr. Brandt Foundation. We are advocates of using business as a force for good, and love seeing entrepreneurs and brands of all sizes do their part to raise awareness for important causes. 

The Dr. Brandt Foundation is dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of diverse and underserved communities and to bring awareness to mental health issues. With every Dr. Brandt microdermabrasion age defying exfoliator purchase, $1 will be donated to the Dr. Brandt Foundation to support mental health programs.

Three C&C team members–with different skin types, tones, and concerns–put Dr. Brandt’s microdermabrasion age defying exfoliator to the test in a micro self-care moment of their own. Here’s what they had to say.

Carly, Senior Director, Marketing

Skin Type: Sensitive

Skincare Concerns: Pores, Fine Links, Wrinkles

I currently use Dr. Brandt’s pore refiner primer, and this is my first venture into skincare from the brand. Stress and anxiety definitely take a toll on my skin, so I was excited to add this exfoliator into my morning routine. The texture in the formula is so fine that I know it won’t irritate my sensitive skin. Because I only use it once or twice a week, it feel like a special self-care ritual that only takes a few moments. I can definitely see this product becoming a staple in my morning skincare routine.

Valerie, Senior Director, Partnerships & Sales

Skin Type: Combo, Sensitive/Acne Prone  

Skincare Concerns: Fine lines, uneven skin tone, some acne scars

I have tried microdermabrasion during a facial in the past, and was eager to try products by Dr. Brandt as it’s a well-known, high-end skincare brand. More importantly, it also supports Mental Health Awareness. Love supporting brands that actually DO good for the world. 

I used this product at night–after a long work day (and all in front of a computer screen due to WFH living) my skin was looking dull and tired. First impressions - great packaging. The product itself felt very light and easy to apply. My skin was tingling (in a good way) which I always like in these types of products because I feel like it’s actually working! The tingling turned to cool–and left my skin feeling SO soft by the time I washed it off just 2 minutes later–so clean and refreshed. In the morning, the texture of my skin felt so nice and I noticed the few acne scars were not AS red. I can’t wait to see results long term after adding this regularly to my routine. I was definitely impressed even just after one use - and loved feeling the fancy spa effects right at home!

Genesis, Talent Coordinator

Skin Type: Combo, Dry/Oily T-zone

Skincare Concerns: Dark spots, texture, fine lines and wrinkles

I love getting facials and depending on the type, I almost always incorporates microdermabrasion. I have used the “Needles No More, No More Baggage”’ under eye cream by Dr. Brandt in the past and was very pleased with the results, so I was excited to try this exfoliator as part of my micro self-care beauty routine. The packaging is simple and timeless, which enhances the product even more. As for the product, I love how lightweight the formula is and how smooth it was to apply – not like other harsh exfoliators– and my skin definitely felt softer after the first application. I will absolutely be adding this into my morning routine, maybe 2-3 times a week.

From May 21st - June 2nd, enjoy 40% off sitewide with coupon code MEMO40.

3 Thoughts That Are Holding You Back From Everything You Want in Life

Photo: ColorJoy Stock

Raise your hand if you spend your time stuck in the past reviewing all that went wrong today, yesterday, or maybe even your entire life? How about time spent in the future hoping, dreaming, and wishing that people, things, or events were different than they are? Yes, I see you. Any time spent out of the present moment is time spent creating everything you don’t want. So why do we do it? Our thoughts, beliefs, and actions will lead us to where we are now.  We can create change by identifying what our core beliefs are and transforming our belief systems.

I’ve been trained to start with noticing where we are holding our trauma in the body first and then re-programming the mind—learn more on my Emotional Reset Method—yet awareness is still key. I have seen thousands of people reclaim their lives to create what they truly desire in their lives. I recently worked with three completely different people struggling with the same core thought patterns. Ahead, I’m breaking down three thought patterns that will destroy the chance of creating your desires. Read on to learn what they are and how you can turn it around.

1. “I feel like if I let go, something bad will happen.”

Imagine holding a balloon and then squeezing it as tight as you can. That balloon is going to fight you on it. It’s most likely not going to pop unless you poke it with a sharp nail or object. It’s just going to resist you until you’re frustrated, exhausted, and let go. Nothing bad happens, it just isn’t going to change anything.

This goes for life, people and events as well. The more you control something, the more it will control you. More importantly, expecting something “bad” will only increase the chance of you unconsciously creating the “bad.” It is when you release your expectations that you can open to all that’s possible.

The Fix: Experiment with letting go, and setting yourself free. Until you try it, you‘ll never know what is possible. 

2.“I feel guilty going and doing my own thing.”

Katie is a wife, mom, daughter, and owner of a successful small business. She wakes up every morning to make breakfast for her husband and girls before running off to work to be available for her staff, then she picks up the girls after school, checks in with her aging mom to be of any assistance she needs, and gets the household ready for dinner along with anything necessary to get done before taking on the next day. For the last three months, she has been feeling a sense of guilt for her desire to start photography classes and fulfill an inner creative calling. As we dialed in on the core root of her pain, she stated, “I feel guilty going and doing my own thing.” Can you relate?

Ignoring our desires and stuffing them down will eventually spiral into anger, resentment and ultimately, a life lived with regret. Any desire that we feel from our heart is meant to show us our own unique path to fulfillment. The more you ignore it, the more unfulfilled you will be. The more you listen and follow, the more inner peace, joy, and fuel you will feel and have to share with the ones you love.

The Fix: Ask yourself, “Do I want to live with regret, or do I want to inspire myself and others with my gifts?” Write down what those gifts are that you want to share. Then start actively working towards making that change.

3. “I am ___.”

Take seven days to write down any words you say on a daily basis that precede the words “I am.” This is what you believe about yourself (and sometimes what you believe about everyone else). Is your mind saying, “I am happy” or is it saying, “I am so mad?”  You choose your state.

The Fix: Keep a running list in the note section on your phone and at the end of the week, take the negative statements and re-frame them into the positive. State the positive statements each morning until you feel the change. This is who you really are. You’re welcome. 

About the Author: Robin Emmerich has spent close to a decade coaching some of the most successful women in business. Even with their considerable success, the common denominator is that as much as they seemed to be cruising through life on the outside, they were melting on the inside. It’s why Robin just launched Beauty and the Mess—an athleisure brand creating a sisterhood who understands that life is messy and difficult and challenging, but together, can find the strength to prioritize passion over perfection and fearlessly seek beauty in their everyday lives. She currently offers the “Live the Life You Desire” self-transformation course based on the legacy she was graciously gifted from her mentor Dr. Coletta Long, a pioneer and expert on the power of the subconscious mind, individual coaching, and worldwide retreats. Need some inspiration? Download your free meditation to get clear and tap into your inner wisdom at robinemmerich.com. Additionally, you can connect with Robin on Instagram or beautyandthemess.com. 

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This story was originally published on August 7, 2019, and has since been updated.

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Yes, You Need to Wear Sunscreen at Your Desk–And More Tips for Summer-Ready Skin

Photo via Jessica Franklin

The summer we’ve been waiting almost two years for is almost upon us–and like many, we plan to double down on the fun. But before we hit the road or head to the beach, we also plan to double down on our sun care routine. 

Looking ahead to the season of long days and busy weekends outdoors, we tapped Coppertone’s Dermatologist Partner, Dr. Nava Greenfield, to answer our most pressing sun care questions, and share the summer skin care essentials she shops and recommends.

The summer staple she’s stocking up on this season is the new Coppertone Glow Spray–a convenient, easy-to-apply lightweight spray sunscreen from Coppertone, that is blended with an illuminating shimmer to give your skin a beautiful glow, while stopping up to 98%* of the sun’s most damaging UV rays (*97% for SPF 30; 98% for SPF 50).

“I recommend this for anyone who is looking for a convenient, lightweight spray sunscreen that not only protects skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays but leaves an illuminating shimmer on your skin. It’s so easy to reapply and perfect for those long sunny days by the pool!”

Not only does Coppertone Glow offer broad spectrum sun protection, but the new, convenient spray format helps achieve that healthy-looking summer glow while keeping skin protected from the sun, making it the stylish glow-getters go-to.

Ahead, Dr. Nava Greenfield shares her tips for summer ready skin, and three ambitious and radiant women share how they incorporate the Coppertone Glow Spray into their sun care routines. Keep scrolling for the ultimate glow-getter tips to help you maintain that glow, all season long.

What does summer do to our skin?

The summer affects our skin in many ways, but the most significant effect is exposure to more ultraviolet light from the sun. 

How much sunscreen do I need?

Generally you need to apply about one shot glass full of sunscreen to any area of your skin that will be exposed to the sun, and about two finger-sized dollops to the face alone.

Should sunscreen come before or after other products? 

Sunscreen should be applied last, and right before any makeup. It comes after your face wash, your antioxidant, and your moisturizer.

How do I know what sunscreen is best for my skin?

There are so many different types of sunscreen on the market, it can be confusing! Regardless of your skin type, Coppertone Glow Spray SPF 50 gives all skin tones a beautiful, illuminating glow while protecting skin from up to 98% of the sun's most damaging UV rays. It provides both UVA and UVB protection and leaves skin feeling hydrated, smooth, and silky after application. Coppertone Glow is also a great option because it is water-resistant (80 minutes).

Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors? 

I would recommend wearing sunscreen every day, whether or not you plan to go outside. This is because if you are near a window, the UV rays from the sun can travel through the glass and still damage your skin. I ask my patients to incorporate sunscreen into their skin care routine every single day, and that they will be happy about making it a habit for years to come!

Does makeup with SPF work?

Yes it definitely does, but it is usually not enough to protect your skin. You would need to apply a lot of makeup for your skin to truly be protected. For that reason, I recommend using a broad spectrum SPF every day in addition to your makeup.

Do I really need to reapply sunscreen throughout the day?

Yes, you do. Thinking you are protected from only your morning application is misleading. 

Does sunscreen expire? Can I use last year’s sunscreen this year?

Sunscreen does expire, just like everything else that is liquid based and bottled.  The chemical structure of ingredients and preservatives break down over time and may no longer be effective after their expiration date. Check to see if last year's product has expired. If not, go right ahead and use it this season! But if it has, do your skin a favor and buy a new bottle.

What is the ideal pre and post sun skincare routine?

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! One day in the sun can have effects for many days after. Moisturize before you go outside and then apply your sunscreen. The sun dehydrates your skin. After a day in the sun, wash with a gentle cleanser and apply a glycerin or ceramide or hyaluronic acid based serum or moisturizer liberally to your skin, and twice daily for the next week. 

Jessica Franklin

“Self-love is one of the most important ways to maintain a glow from the inside out.”

–Jessica Franklin

Share your sun care routine. How do you get your skin summer-ready?

Growing up I wasn’t as consistent with protecting my skin from the sun as I am now. I used to actually lay in the sun for hours tanning with barely any sunscreen. Now that I’m older and more aware of the damage the sun can cause to my skin, my sun care routine involves making sure my skin is both moisturized and protected. I use the Coppertone Glow Spray because it is lightweight, easy to apply, and blended with an illuminating shimmer that gives me a beautiful glow while protecting my skin from the sun’s most damaging UV rays. This leaves my skin not only protected, but photo ready too!

Beauty is being confident in your own skin. What are your tips to maintain your glow?

Self-love is one of the most important ways to maintain a glow from the inside out. I’ve realized that if I truly love who I am, then I won’t worry about what other people think as much, and my confidence will radiate. It’s not always easy because insecurities are inevitable, but I try to remind myself of this daily–I often talk to myself and repeat affirmations such as, “I love you, you’re beautiful, you’re amazing,” etc, and this helps me maintain my glow!

Tyla-Lauren

“Taking care of your mental health is key for glowing from the inside out.”

– Tyla Lauren

Share your sun care routine. How do you get your skin summer-ready?

I change my skin care routine each season because my skin always needs different things throughout the year. For summer, it’s all about SPF, exfoliating and achieving the perfect glow. I exfoliate to keep my skin bright, I apply SPF like Coppertone Glow at least every 2 hours to keep my skin protected and I constantly moisturize to keep my skin glowing all day long.

Beauty is being confident in your own skin. What are your tips to maintain your glow?

For me it’s always about being my authentic self and being intentional with everything I do. Also, taking care of my mental health is key for glowing from the inside out!

Jera Bean

“Find the humor in day to day and try not to take life too seriously. There is nothing more gorgeous than a big smile–and the more you do so, the more you can spread that same feeling and energy to others.”

– Jera Bean

Share your sun care routine. How do you get your skin summer-ready?

I am all about some summer skin! Here's how I get my skin summer ready:

• Exfoliate! Love a good scrub while showering.

• Moisturize! Slather it on everywhere!

• Self tan! I usually mix in some self tanner drops into my moisturizer.

• Protect and glow! Before getting dressed, I use my Coppertone Glow to both protect myself from the sun, and to give me a lil of that summer shimmer!

Beauty is being confident in your own skin. What are your tips to maintain your glow?

Here are my three tips to maintain your glow from the inside out:

1. Fill your cup with what gives you joy! Whether that's moving your body with yoga, taking walks with your dog, or reading a good book. Take time away from your screens and from work to tap into the things that make you happy.

2. Embrace your quirks and as I love to say, "let your freak flag fly!" Our personality is what makes us unique! So often we're afraid to stand out due to fears like "what will people think?!" or "what will people say?!" The truth of the matter is, not everyone is going to jive with you, and that's ok because you weren't put on this earth in order to receive everyone's approval. The more you can step into YOU, the less you'll seek other people's validation and the more authentic you can truly be... and that is a beautiful thing!

3.  Find the humor in the day-to-day and try not to take life too seriously. There is nothing more gorgeous than a big smile or laughter, and the more than you do so, the more you can spread that same feeling and energy to others.

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The first 100 readers to enter their information below will receive a complimentary Coppertone Glow box, which includes the NEW Coppertone Glow Spray, Coppertone Glow Lotion and some additional summer essentials to help you get your glow on. Make sure to share how you’re getting your glow on this summer tagging @CoppertoneUSA and using #CoppertoneGlowUp. 

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3 Quick and Easy Recipes to Make When You're Too Busy to Cook

Here at Create & Cultivate, we know how busy life can get. Amidst a hectic schedule, it is far too easy to forget to take care of yourself in the mix. However, therein lies the contradiction: if you do not properly nourish your body, you won’t be able to perform anywhere near your best. So, we sat down with food blogger Kenzie Burke, who gave us a few of her favorite quick, easy recipes, and explained why it’s important to make time for food.

“I am a huge proponent of cook it once, eat it two or three times.”

—Kenzie Burke

Create & Cultivate: How can we food prep when we feel like there’s no time? What is a good hack?

Kenzie Burke: My mindset is that no matter how busy you are, there is always time to do things that matter to you. I understand what it is like to be insanely busy. Some days I cannot even manage to text one person back, but I know that I need fuel to perform at my best. It’s possible that you’ll have to stay awake 20 minutes later than usual to make tomorrow run smoother, or perhaps you swap out prep cooking in place of your evening Instagram scroll. Give yourself this gift. This probably isn't the answer anyone wanted to read but, where there is a will, there is a way. As mentioned before, I am a huge proponent of cook it once, eat it two or three times.

C&C: You are anti-diet—why? What is your food philosophy?

KB: My food philosophy is ‘make it a lifestyle.’ You’ve got to fall in love with your life. You have to wake up every day enjoying what you are doing or you just won't live a satisfying life. I believe this sentiment carries over into the foods we eat. You have to love what you eat and want to eat well. I’ve found that those who diet seem to fall off quite easily and feel limited and trapped. In my practice, I get to the root reasoning behind eating well. Why do you want to eat well? For your health? Body? Family? Taking care of your body is taking care of you.

You cannot show up as your best self for your friends, family, partner, and career if you don’t put your own oxygen mask on first. Find your why. To be more specific about what I love to put in my body, I really focus on whole foods. For lunch and dinner I try to make half my plate a veggie. I love to optimize digestion with food combining and plant-based food. I explore this concept further in my e-book as it has changed how I feel at an almost soul level. I feel like I vibrate on a whole new frequency.

3 Quick and Easy Recipes to Try This Week

Artichoke Heart Salad

Courtesy of Kenzie Burke

Ingredients:

Romaine lettuce
Cucumber
Chickpeas
Olives
Artichoke hearts
Red pepper flakes

Ingredients for the dressing:

3 large lemons
3/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

Note: This makes a big batch you can keep in your fridge and use throughout the week.

Directions:

Chop romaine into fine pieces, peel and cut cucumber. Plate lettuce and cucumber with chickpeas, olives, artichoke hearts, and top with red pepper flakes. For the dressing place all ingredients into your blender and blend. This dressing stores well in the fridge. Finish salad with this simple salad dressing.

Tropical Bub Smoothie

Ingredients:

Cup of frozen mango
1 banana
Chunk of cucumber
Spinach or lettuce
Chunk of ginger
1 date
Coconut water
Spirulina powder
Shake of cinnamon

Directions:

Place ingredients in a blender and blend!

Simple Chickpea Pasta

Ingredients:

Chickpea pasta
Handful of cherry tomatoes
1/2 an avocado
1/2 of a lemon
Drizzle of olive oil
Salt and pepper
Nutritional yeast

Directions:

Cook the noodles by following the directions on the package they come in. In a sauté pan; sauté the cherry tomatoes on medium heat in olive oil until they are soft.

Once the pasta has finished cooking plate the pasta with the cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and finish the dish with a drizzle of olive oil, squeeze of 1/2 of a lemon, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast.

This dish is ready to eat. It is also good cold.

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This story was originally published on September 5, 2019, and has since been updated.

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The Definitive Guide to Making Time for Self-Care

Photo: Smith House Photo

We live in a time where self-care has a dedicated day on the calendar and a sticker on Instagram. But if you’re like me, finding the time to practice self-care can feel impossible. You’re working from nine to five, building your side hustle, and then it’s time for bed. When can you catch your breath, let alone make time for a face mask?

That’s where I can help. As someone who works a nine-to-five job in addition to freelancing, I’ve tried literally everything (and I mean, everything) to find time for my self-care practice. We’ve all become so accustomed to talking about self-care and hearing about self-care, that we’ve forgotten to allow ourselves the time to do it. I’ve found a few key ways you can incorporate self-care into your day. Because who could benefit from lower stress levels, better sleep, and stronger self-awareness? I’m raising my hand. I’ll assume that you are, too!

Below, I’m sharing the routine that ensures I make time to take care of myself. Here’s how you create your own self-care practice too.

Morning

For me, mornings are the most gentle time of day. You’ve (hopefully) just rested for six to eight hours, and your body is regaining its awareness. Mornings are the perfect time to practice self-care if you tend to have a very busy schedule during the day, have plans most evenings, or consider yourself an early bird. If this is you, then I’d recommend incorporating one of the ideas below into your routine:

1. Before caffeine, drink 24 ounces of water. So, hydration is not what you had in mind for self-care. But think about it: your body has just spent six to eight hours fasting. It spent the entire evening losing body fluids from breathing, snoring, or sweating—I know, such a beautiful way to describe sleep. By “flooding” your system when you wake up, you’re invigorating your body and giving it what it needs to propel you through the day. Another bonus? It kickstarts digestion.

2. Read (just not the news). For me, the smell of a newspaper reminds me of mornings with my parents. But the news itself can be disheartening, so I now opt for a book. Even if it’s just five pages with a glass of water or tea, it’s a gentle way to reawaken the mind. The ability to get lost in someone else’s world with a fiction novel allows for your own creativity to flourish. You can ignite the creative left side of your brain and the analytical right side of your brain all at once, thereby enhancing connectivity in the brain and improving brain function—talk about a life hack.

3. Go on a slow walk. Moving your body in a slow, deliberate way is perfect for clearing your mind and setting your intentions. And, most mornings, the weather is cooler than it will be during the day, so you won’t break a sweat. Try going on a walk without music, too. Whether you live in a busy city or a quiet suburb, listening to your surroundings can be refreshing. You’ll learn more about where you physically are, a form of awareness that is incredibly valuable for feeling good throughout the day.

Afternoon

These self-care practices are all about utilizing that lunch break effectively. Yes, a lunch break! Many of us neglect our lunch breaks. In a study of 2,000 American workers, 51 percent said, “it is rare or unrealistic for them to take a proper lunch break away from their work.” But that may not reflect the laws in your state—confirm your rights here. If mornings are too rushed and evenings just aren’t your thing, here are a few ways to practice self-care during the day:

1. Listen to a podcast (comedy, preferably). I love laughing. The type that makes your stomach hurt, like those six-pack abs are one joke away. Turns out, that’s a good thing. Laughing has been shown to relieve your stress response, soothe tension, and improve mood. Finding a way to laugh during the day is a great way to release and reconnect with yourself. If you don’t have someone at work who makes you laugh, take the time to listen to a funny podcast. “2 Dope Queens,” “My Favorite Murder,” and “Anna Faris Is Unqualified” are some of my ultimate favorites.

2. Be a plant. I mean literally. Do as the plants do and stand in the sun for 10 to 15 minutes (be sure to sunscreen up first). While you won't photosynthesize, you will benefit from the added dose of vitamin D, as nearly 80 to 90% of vitamin D comes from sunlight. Plus, most office spaces can be so cold. Warming up in natural sunlight will feel like a much-needed hug.

3. Chew your food. Now you probably think I’m crazy. Be a plant and chew my food, who is she? Pay particular attention to what you eat for lunch, it’s going to fuel you for the rest of the day. Focus on nourishing ingredients that are full of protein and fiber. And like I said, chew your food and chew it well. Slow everything down. Make it an effort to eat methodically and mindfully, stopping to acknowledge how good the food tastes and how it makes you feel.

Evening

Mornings aren’t your thing and you work through lunch—I get it. Hello to my night owls! These nighttime self-care ideas are meant to prepare your body for rest.

1. Eliminate decision fatigue. Your “morning self” will thank you for this one. Have fun choosing your clothes for the next day, assembling your lunch, and putting everything back in its place. Put on some music and go all-out Carrie Bradshaw when she sold her apartment. Try on anything and everything that you want to, so you don’t have to do it in the morning. Make it a dance party, because why not?

2. Cook a nostalgic meal. My favorite meal of all time is spaghetti and meatballs. Something about it reminds me of home. So I make it for any situation—when I’m feeling down and when I’m feeling good. Loving a certain meal for its nostalgic qualities can boost your mood and reduce stress. Plus, I give you permission to forget about the dishes just this once. Future you can handle that.

3. Dry brush and moisturize. I’m in love with dry brushing, the act of taking a dry, bristle brush and gently pressing it from the skin of your feet to your neck in circular motions. It’s a thorough exfoliation that stimulates your circulation and aids in lymphatic drainage, which can help the body eliminate toxins. You’ll feel vibrant and glowy. Always follow dry brushing with a good, soothing moisturizer. And please avoid dry brushing if you have sensitive skin, you don’t want to cause irritation.

And that’s all, folks! You can do these practices daily, weekly, monthly, or when you remember to—all that’s important is knowing that self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant. It’s showing your body and mind the love it deserves for serving you through the highs and lows.

About the Author: By day, Lily Comba works in business development for an online marketplace. By night, Lily lives an entrepreneurial life. After working as a Career Consultant for two years at her alma mater, Scripps College, Lily developed a passion for helping women in their careers. She embodies the mantra, “If not me, who? If not now, when?” in her work as a career advisor to college students, and creative and business strategist for fellow entrepreneurs. Catch her running around Los Angeles or at lilycomba.com.

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This story was originally published on May 18, 2019, and has since been updated.

Mom Point: Perfect Presents For Mother's Day

Photo via Jalisa Vaughn

“Motherhood” can be described in as many ways as there are many kinds of moms. Moms are tough and tender, fancy and fierce, warm and wise. They’re nurturing, compassionate, resilient and bold. And sometimes, they’re not actually your mom, but rather a mother figure –  someone whose advice you can always trust, who has stood by you through thick and thin and who you love like family.

Moms also make mistakes. They teach us it’s okay not to be perfect. How to say, “I’m sorry.” How to forgive others. And how to forgive ourselves.

And after so many years of love and laughter and tears, they know when it’s time to let go … just enough, but not quite all the way.

So this year, let’s show all the moms in our lives how grateful we are for their giving, loving, perfectly imperfect selves. Let’s tell them how lucky we feel. And let’s thank them for all that they are.

We asked three stylish women to reveal the perfect presents from Hallmark for every kind of mom. Keep scrolling to see what gifts they’re giving to the leading women in their lives this year.

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Maddie Obray 

“I love that Hallmark has a wide variety of products. No matter who you’re shopping for, you can always find a card and gift that fits their personality perfectly!”

–Maddie Obray

To whom did you send a Mother’s Day card/gift to and why? Which card and gift did you choose?

My mom loves flowers so I picked out the Loved Mother’s Day Card With Floral Heart Wreath in Gift Box and the Bright and Happy Day Vase of Flowers 3D Pop-Up Card. My mother-in-law loves the spa so I got her the Spa Day Self-Care Kit.

What makes it a great gift?

These are great gifts because the products I picked have specific meaning for my mom and mother-in-law–they will know I was thinking about them when I picked out the gifts.

What message did you want to get across to them? How did sending a card and gift help convey your message and emotions in a more meaningful way?

I just wanted them to know I love them and care about them. I know when they get these gifts they will feel loved and appreciated!

Why is Hallmark your go-to shop for Mother’s Day gifts?

I love that Hallmark has a wide variety of products. No matter who you’re shopping for, you can always find a card and gift that fits their personality perfectly!

Best advice you learned from your mom?

My mom leads by example and I’m always trying to be more like her. She is kind, compassionate, strong, caring, loving, genuine, and always puts God and family first. She is also the best grandma to my daughter! I don’t know what we’d do without her.

How did sending a card make you feel?

I always love sending cards because it’s such an easy gesture to let people know how much they mean to you. I love knowing it will brighten their day when they see it and read the message inside.

Maddie’s Mother’s Day Gift Picks

HALLMARK

Loved Mother's Day Card With Floral Heart Wreath in Gift Box

HALLMARK

Spa Day Self-Care Kit, 6 Pieces

HALLMARK

Bright and Happy Day Vase of Flowers 3D Pop-Up Mother's Day Card

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Jalisa Vaughn

“Gift giving is one of my love languages and a way I love to express my love to others. I love being able to shower my mom with gifts on her special day to remind her just how special she is.”

– Jalisa Vaughn

To whom did you send a Mother’s Day card and gift to and why? What card and gift did you choose?
My mom to make her feel special this Mother’s Day. I got her a Hallmark Paper Wonder pop up card as well as Lavender-Infused Crew Socks and a Spa Day Self-Care Kit so that I could express how much she means to me not just on this special day but every day

What makes it a great gift?
I love the variety of self-care gifts because she deserves to feel pampered, and the pop-up card really makes a statement! I know she’ll be wowed when she opens this gift.

What message did you want to get across to them? How did sending a card and gift help convey your message and emotions in a more meaningful way?
The importance of self-care and self-love. It was a tangible expression of my feelings for my mother.

Why is Hallmark your go-to shop for Mother’s Day gifts?
Hallmark is always my go to for Mother’s Day gifts because they always help me tangibly express my emotions and their gifts allow my mom to have keepsakes that she can reflect on for years to come.

Best advice you learned from your mom?
One piece of advice that I hold tightly to is, “when you keep God first, He will take care of His.”

How did sending a card make you feel?
Gift giving is one of my love languages and a way I love to express my love to others. I love being able to shower my mom with gifts on her special day to remind her just how special she is.

Jalisa’s Mother’s Day Gift Picks

HALLMARK

If You Can Read This Lavender-Infused Crew Socks

HALLMARK

You're a Blessing Hummingbird 3D Pop-Up Mother's Day Card

HALLMARK

Spa Day Self-Care Kit, 6 Pieces

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Dayna Bolden

“Hallmark always has the perfect cards to express exactly how I am feeling.”

– Dayna Bolden

To whom did you send a Mother’s Day card and gift to and why? What card and gift did you choose?
I decided to send a Mother’s Day card to my mother-in-law because she has been such a huge help to our family, from watching the kids, to keeping the house in tact while I am busy working. She has been a great help to me and has made my job easier.
I chose a Hallmark Mother’s Day Card and Hallmark’s Spa Day Self-Care Kit.

What makes it a great gift?
I love this gift for my mother in law because she works so hard she deserves a little me time at home. She also loves painting and doing my daughter’s nails, that is her favorite thing to do on the weekends, so this kit would make her so happy!

What message did you want to get across to them? How did sending a card and gift help convey your message and emotions in a more meaningful way?
The message I want her to know is that she is valued and appreciated. By giving a simple gift that I know she will love will show how much we love and value her presence in our life.

Why is Hallmark your go-to shop for Mother’s Day gifts?
Hallmark has always been my go-to destination–Hallmark always has the perfect cards to express exactly how I am feeling and the selection is great. I also love the selection of meaningful gifts that all moms will love and appreciate.

Best advice you learned from your mom?
My best advice from my mom is to work hard with everything that you do. She has instilled this in me by not just telling me, but showing me daily with how hard she works in her career and for her family. I knew I would always be successful solely on how she instilled work ethic in me. 

How did sending a card make you feel?
Sending a card made me feel happy and blessed that I have mothers in my life that I am close to and value every day. 

Dayna’s Mother’s Day Gift Picks

HALLMARK

Spa Day Self-Care Kit, 6 Pieces

HALLMARK

My Mom, My Friend Mother's Day Card

HALLMARK

Home Is Where Mom Is Quote Sign

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Made by Women–Discover, Shop and Support Women-Owned Restaurants in Los Angeles

On March 25, 2021, Create & Cultivate joined forces with DoorDash for an entirely *virtual* dinner event to champion women-owned businesses and experience Made by Women, DoorDash’s new in-app features that make it easier to discover and support local independent women-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.

The intimate digital event was an evening filled with inspiring stories, great food, and important conversations on resiliency, vulnerability, community, and the state of the future, led by influential hosts including Rebecca Minkoff, Shiza Shahid, Ally Maki, and Good Clean Wine co-founders Michelle Feldman and Courtney Dunlop.

Women-owned businesses disproportionately feel the impacts of COVID-19. The road to recovery for small businesses post-COVID is long, and data from The U.S. Chamber of Commerce shows that women-owned small businesses have an even longer road ahead of them. DoorDash considers this commitment to supporting Women-owned businesses an ongoing effort that demands action through its product, voice, and resources, such as Made by Women.

Hundreds of Women-owned, independent restaurants across more than 40 US states have opted into Made by Women and are now searchable on DoorDash by keyword “Women owned”, including local Los Angeles favorites such as Kismet, Guelaguetza, Interstellar, Botanica and Lady & Larder, with more to come in the coming months.

Discover, shop and support more women-owned restaurants in Los Angeles, then join us at the table to tune into the conversations below–we saved you a seat.

WELCOME DRINKS: NEW RITUALS

Event Host / MC
Maxie McCoy, Host & Executive Producer of WOMAN ON

Guests
Michelle Feldman and Courtney Dunlop, Co-Founders of Good Clean Wine

“We never take our wine for granted and we love the ritual of getting together to experience a wine for the first time.” – Courtney Dunlop

“Our wine is wine that you can afford to share or enjoy on a Tuesday night. Especially given what  we've all gone through in the past year, wine can be a ritual to celebrate everyday moments.” – Michelle Feldman

FIRST COURSE: RESILIENCY 

Host / MC
Maxie McCoy, Host & Executive Producer of WOMAN ON

Guest
Rebecca Minkoff, Co-Founder, Creative Director of Rebecca Minkoff | Co-Founder Female Founder Collective 

“When faced with a challenge, try to look back and remember every time you have found success and remember the feeling. The happiness you felt was because you overcame a barrier that was not insurmountable.” – Rebecca Minkoff

“Vulnerability is important–– it doesn't mean we are weak, it means we are honest.” – Rebecca Minkoff

If you were standing in the shoes of your future self, would you be okay looking back and knowing that you gave up, or would you rather know that you did everything possible to endure, regardless of the outcome.” – Maxie McCoy 

“We have to get over the idea that being an entrepreneur or a founder should be easy – it’s never been that way.” – Rebecca Minkoff

SECOND COURSE: COMMUNITY

Host
Sonja Rasula, Founder, Unique Markets

Guest:
Ally Maki, Actor & Founder of Asian American Girl Club 

“There were few, if any, shows featuring Asian American women as the lead, so we decided to create our own-–together. They will be so much more powerful, united, strong and authentic because the stories are coming directly from us.” – Ally Maki

“In this day and age of social media, we're able to use our voices like never before and with that comes an opportunity to find our tribe, wherever they may be in the world.” – Ally Maki

“Create content with authenticity and the community will grow organically.” – Ally Maki

“Community, female friendship and collaboration are absolutely essential––I would not be where I am today; I would not be as full and as happy.” – Ally Maki

THIRD COURSE: THE FUTURE

Host
Katie Daire, Senior Director, B2B Marketing at DoorDash

Guest
Shiza Shahid - Cofounder, Our Place and Malala Fund 

“Food media for a long time had sort of ignored a lot of the cuisines, cultures and traditions that so many of us celebrate.” – Shiza Shahid

“Home cooking is about so much more than food––it's about connection to your culture, your identity, your traditions––and each other.” – Shiza Shahid

“As we re-acclimate to public spaces and gatherings, there is a noticeable hunger for connection, along with an intentional desire to not take these moments for granted anymore.” – Shiza Shahid

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, in Business or in Love–This Founder’s Story is Proof that What’s Meant to be Will Always Find a Way

Donda Mullis knows a thing or two about putting your heart into your business. People say business isn’t personal, but she believes it absolutely is, as it is the connections and relationships that we have that makes it all happen. Love is not only the foundation of her company, but an agent for meaningful change, and an ongoing narrative of a shared passion with her partner in both business and life, Ronnie Shugar.

“We wanted to create an aspirational brand that made people feel better inside and out. And a brand with a heart that connected us with a cause which became the catalyst for our give back mission,” Mullis tells Create & Cultivate.

The result is one of today's fastest-growing natural lifestyle brands, Raw Sugar Living. Based in Florida , Raw Sugar Living is a brand on a mission to promote clean and healthy living through products that are good for the body and nourish the soul, while being accessible for all. 

An early disruptor within the clean beauty and personal care category, Raw Sugar Living has been driving much-needed innovation in a new era of sustainability supported by a growing consumer awareness around buying choices and their impact on the environment. In fact, clean beauty is one of the fastest-growing areas of personal care and Raw Sugar Living remains at the forefront of the $22 billion industry. For more than seven years, the company mainstreams the highest-quality, hand-crafted soaps and personal care products that are made with plant-derived ingredients and cold pressed extracts (recognized by their signature 'Bamboo Tops & White Bottles' and 'Living Purely Unfiltered' tagline).

Mullis and Shugar first met many years back while working in the same retail field. While they had different focuses at the time, their diverse backgrounds––Shugar’s in manufacturing and logistics and Mullis’s in marketing, strategic partnerships and retail distribution––were a powerful synergy in the making. Their plan was always to do something bigger — together — that would inspire and connect their backgrounds with a meaningful cause. The two fell crazy in love, but eventually parted ways as young love often does.

Fast forward 20 years — the two reconnected by an act of destiny’s intervention. They renewed their love and their shared belief of wanting to inspire others to live from a place of self-love and wellness. For both of them, it was about sharing their passion for clean and healthy living while preserving a 60-year family history of making natural hand crafted natural soap and personal care products that are good for the body and that nourish the soul- and that people can feel good about using.

The latest addition to the Raw Sugar Living family meets the growing demand for planet-friendly, sustainable, and aluminum-free deodorant–one that ACTUALLY works. After all, one of the many lessons to take away from these founders’ story, is not to sweat the small stuff–in business or in love–because what is meant to be will always find its way. 

Ahead, Mullis tells us more about the latest launch, and shares her advice for building a brand that is for the people, adopting a clean lifestyle and beauty regime, and utilizing entrepreneurship as an agent of change.

Our mission is to love from the inside out. We embrace individuality and create with authenticity.

– Donda Mullis, Co-Founder and CMO, Raw Sugar Living

What inspired you to start Raw Sugar Living?

What inspired us was the white space in the marketplace for natural/clean products that were simply affordable, thereby making clean healthy products more accessible to all. Because, as I always say, we all deserve to feel beautiful and love the skin we’re in. For me, it was to create a brand that was much more than products sitting on a retail shelf, but rather an aspirational brand that inspires people to live from a powerful place of self love, wellness, empowering others, and loving ourselves, flaws and all. And very importantly, creating real change in our community. In fact, every product is tagged with a ‘sugar note’, kind of like a love note with a positive message that reminds us to simply love ourselves.

Developing a brand that is for all people. We embrace individuality and create with authenticity. We’re all about clean living and living clean. All of our premium yet affordable formulas are made with integrity. We believe in giving back, lifting spirits, showering people with love, and of course smelling good at all times!

We are a brand that does good.

How has this belief helped to underpin your mission as a brand?

To date we have donated over 15 million bars of soap and personal essentials to people in need, and we’re just getting started.

Products that are made with plant-derived and clean ingredients should be accessible to everybody. We’re thrilled that we’ve been able to give access to clean healthy products to those in need.

What would you tell someone who’s new to adopting a clean lifestyle and beauty regime ––where should they start and what people should look out for when choosing a clean beauty or lifestyle product?

Advocacy, a brand you can trust, one that stands for good, makes clean ethical products, and simply makes you feel beautiful.

What are some common misconceptions of clean beauty?

That clean products are expensive – clean, healthy products don’t need to be expensive. 

What are some of your favorite Raw Sugar Living products to integrate into your daily routine?

Personally, my top three products that we’ve created include our Body Washes, Sugar Scrubs, and sustainable Deodorants. They are crafted with functional ingredients without the bad stuff.

What do you love most about your job and why? Does the reality of your career match up to your expectations? Why or why not?

My work is my life and my passion. My vision was to create a brand that had meaning beyond the retail self, stood for good, continues to give back, and makes clean healthy living affordable to everyone–Raw Sugar Living has exceeded my expectations.

My greatest tool is the ability to understand our consumers. Raw sugar has become a brand that speaks to everyone. This is what we wanted and are excited to continue growing. I’ve seen hundreds of brands come and go, and although Raw Sugar Living was born only 7 short years ago, it has truly been a lifetime in the making. 

We always say we’re only as beautiful as we feel, and you can’t feel beautiful if you don’t feel clean.

Going after what you deserve in life takes confidence. Does confidence come naturally to you or did you have to learn it? What advice can you share for women on cultivating confidence and going after their dreams?

With pure grit, hard work and determination, we can become anything that we want. I’m the youngest of 5 girls with a strong southern mother who survived and thrived through constant tragedy and adversity. I became a human sponge for all of their mishaps and lessons. Love, positive thinking and reward for hard work was the core of our upbringing. I was brought up with retail in my blood beginning with my mother, and my biggest inspiration, who is a self taught, hard working and determined role model who carved out a new retail niche within a male-dominated industry and was way ahead of her time. Whether you think you can, or you cannot - you are right! Confidence is fearless repetition–and like most things in life, I believe it is learned.

It's these life experiences that helped create my vision for the company and the lesson learned–the brand pillars of raw sugar’s values.

You have to get through the ‘raw’ and difficult journey to get to the sweet ‘sugar’ destination–hence Raw Sugar Living

With success comes opportunity, but that also means you have your hands full. What keeps you inspired and motivated to keep going even on your most challenging days?

Our customers are our driving force. seeing how our products can inspire and make others happy is truly what keeps us going! 

Also, being supported by an amazing internal team that champions our success is very important to our inspiration and motivation.

You are constantly innovating—What category of beauty would you love to see Raw Sugar Living disrupt next?

I’m really excited about our latest launch – a collection of planet-friendly and aluminum-free deodorants. Not only is the collection wrapped in 100% biodegradable and recyclable, plastic-free packaging, but it is made with naturally derived ingredients, clinically and allergy tested, cruelty-free and vegan.

Raw Sugar Deodorants are free of aluminum, baking soda, talc, parabens and propylene glycol. They are also infused with odor-fighting essential oils and feel-fresh fragrances. These formulas are designed to detox and balance the natural skin barrier while reducing body odor-causing bacterial growth, helping you live clean and move free.

Share your best advice, in two words or less.

“Kindly Relentless”

— Donda Mullis, Co-Founder & CMO, Raw Sugar Living

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SHOP THE FOUNDER’S FAVORITES

RAW SUGAR LIVING

Green Tea + Cucumber + Aloe Vera Body Wash

$9.99

RAW SUGAR LIVING

Watermelon + Fresh Mint
Sugar Scrub

$15.39

RAW SUGAR LIVING

Vanilla Bean + Charcoal
Deodorant

$8.24

Celebrate Women in Music With This WFH Playlist (and Prepare to Listen on Repeat)

Photo: Mingyue H from Pexels

Not to sound like a broken record, but we have a long way to go in the fight for gender equality in the music industry. Earlier this month, the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Inclusion Initiative released its annual report on music creator demographics, and it revealed little progress for women in popular music in 2020. In fact, the number of women writing and performing hit songs has decreased since 2019. The report found women made up only 20.2% percent of the artists behind 2020’s top songs (down from 22.5% in 2019 and below the nine-year average of 21.6%).

To celebrate the women in music who are defying these stats and moving the industry in the right direction, and in honor of Women’s History Month, Samantha Ouellette, Create & Cultivate’s general manager and unofficial C&C office DJ, curated a WFH playlist. Spanning legends by the likes of Nina Simone, Stevie Nicks, and Dolly Parton to up-and-coming artists (and recent Create & Cultivate 100 honorees!) Remi Wolf, Audrey Mika, and Tayla Parx, trust us when we say you’re going to want to put this playlist on repeat during 9-to-5. Grab your headphones and scroll on to press play now.

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Influential Women, Past and Present

We tend to focus our attention on moving forward and what's next. But in building a better future, we must also draw upon the stories of the past. Where we are now – and often who we are now – is a culmination of the influence and efforts of those who came before us. In honor of Women’s History Month, we are amplifying the stories of influential women past and present. Meet the inspired women who are inspiring women – modern day history in the making.

DANIELA RAMIREZ 

Founder, Nany’s Kloset

Daniela Rameriz wearing Vince Camuto Tie-Waist Cropped Jumpsuit, Orla Zebra Canvas Tote, and Ladeinela Braided-Strap Thong Sandal

As a woman, what are you most proud of?

Absolutely everything! I love how smart, strong, intuitive, fearless, and caring women are.  I’m also super proud of being able to grow life–and while I have upmost respect for all the women who choose a different path than motherhood–personally, I am very proud of what our bodies are capable of as women, and I am proud to be a mother to my son, and baby-to-be that is currently in my tummy.

What woman from history has been an inspiration to you? How did her influence change your life or inspire you?

There are so many amazing women that come to my mind, starting with my mom and the women around me who inspire me on the daily. If I have to choose someone from history,  I would say Frida Kahlo.  I was always so inspired by her ability to turn her suffering into art, while also being extremely strong and defying gender stereotypes way before her time.

What is a challenge you had to overcome when building your brand and business that speaks to your experience as a woman?

Since I started fashion blogging over a decade ago, one of the biggest challenges was proving to people that it could be an actual career. 

Since the beginning, fashion blogging has been predominantly driven by women and often considered “superficial,” so we really had to show the world that women have a big influence in women’s purchasing decisions and in dictating fashion trends. We are not little girls playing dress up, we are the women disrupting traditional “digital marketing.”

We have to be the role models we wished we had as kids, to always lift each other up and compliment one another.

– DANIELA RAMIREZ, Founder, Nany’s Klozet

What is one thing you know now about being a female entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier in your career?

I always knew that my female peers were not my competition because we all had something different to offer. However, I wish I knew that we were stronger when we work together and we support each other 100% selflessly.

What’s one thing we, as women, can do to better empower and support the next generation of women?

We have come so far but we still have a long way to go when it comes to female empowerment. To support the next generation of women, we can start by listening closely like we wished older women would have listened to us when we were kids. We have to be the role models we wished we had as kids, to always lift each other up and compliment one another. We can also introduce amazing women to each other, especially for job opportunities or personal growth- because, again, we are stronger together.

Share the most important advice you could give to the next generation of women today–in two words, or less. 

Be authentic.

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RIA MICHELLE

Entrepreneur

Ria Michelle wearing Vince Camuto Ruffled Rumple Top, Faux-Leather Skinny Pants, Orla Zebra Canvas Tote, and Ladeinela Braided-Strap Thong Sandal

As a woman, what are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of our emotional intelligence and resourcefulness. We are the backbone–we bounce back, we nurture, we create, we are everything. Find me a woman that won’t make it work. 

What woman from history has been an inspiration to you? How did her influence change your life or inspire you?

Shirley Chisholm, a powerhouse who never backed down and continued to fight for women and minorities. She’s also Caribbean like me, and though I wasn’t born in the U.S. like she was, her story still feels like a larger than life inspiration. She fought against the odds–not just for herself, but for others–in spaces she may not have always been welcomed as a Black woman. 

What is a challenge you had to overcome when building your business and brand that speaks to your experience as a woman?

Focusing too much on other people’s assumptions about what I do–whether that is not being taken seriously, dealing with imposter syndrome, or even negative self talk. It’s easy to listen to all the noise that aims to convince you that your industry or job is frivolous–even while you’re literally carving your own path and career single handedly.  

Community is our strength.

– RIA MICHELLE, Entrepreneur

What is one thing you know now about being a female entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier in your career?

Talk to your peers about salaries, especially minorities. Make sure you’re not undervaluing yourself. You’d be surprised to find out what you can learn from one another. It’s very helpful to know how to navigate and negotiate for yourself. 

What’s one thing we, as women, can do to better empower and support the next generation of women?

Talk to each other about everything. Community is our strength. I feel very lucky to work in a field that is predominantly women. I consider it a blessing.

Share the most important advice you could give to the next generation of women today––in two words, or less.

Value yourself.

20 Self-Care Staples to Take a Mental Break Without Leaving Your Desk

Photo: Alizee Marchand from Pexels

Staying focused is not easy when you’re working from your living room and haven't left the house in weeks. It’s easy to feel drained and distracted, even the bliss of working in pajamas is old news. Self-care is needed now more than ever, but you may not always have time for yoga or a bubble bath.

Luckily, our editorial director, Sacha Strebe, and our managing editor, Megan Beauchamp, compiled the products they swear by for a quick mental health break. These products will add a little peace to your workspace, make you feel better, and you can use them while answering emails or sitting on Zoom calls.

Take a pause, scroll on, and do something for yourself. You deserve it.

True Botanicals Stress Relief

“When you work at an events company there is always work to do. Long hours prepping the show at my desk are followed by long days ensuring the show runs smoothly on-site. When I need a little stress-relief, I reach over and roll this oil on my wrists and sometimes a little on my neck behind my ears too. It smells so good with tarragon and frankincense, both of which have been used for centuries to ground and stabilize moods.” —Sacha Strebe

$36

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The Beauty Chef Well Spray Inner Beauty Support

“When you’re on-the-go and stress has the cortisol levels rising, your immune system can be compromised. I love The Beauty Chef’s Well Spray (their Gut Primer is also a favorite) because it isn’t another vitamin to swallow and in just a few sprays I know I’m boosting and protecting my body. The ingredients are a combination of bio-fermented superfoods including pomegranate, elderberry, olive leaf (I swear by the olive leaf pills for immune defense), sage, calendula, and selenium—a mineral essential for normal immune function.” —Sacha Strebe

$29

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Hum Raw Beauty Green Superfood Powder

“I have been a big fan of Hum nutrition for a long time (I swear by their Skin Heroes probiotic) and this superfood powder is a must-have at work. I always forget to take my pills or drink my green juice on the weekend because I’m out of routine. But this all-in-one powder makes it easy. There are more than 30 superfoods here with antioxidants, adaptogens, enzymes, probiotics, fruits, and vegetables. It also has a delicious mint chocolate chip flavor. I find myself reaching for it mid-afternoon for a boost and to stave off those unhealthy snack temptations.” —Sacha Strebe

$39

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The Nue Co. De-bloat and Prebiotic

“I try to move around my home office as much as possible but I’d be lying if there aren’t more days than not where I’m sitting at my dining table come makeshift desk all day long. Naturally, not moving my body can often lead to bloating so when that happens, I make a warm tea with The Nue Co. de-bloat and prebiotic powder. It tastes great and it really works.” —Sacha Strebe

$37

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iS Clinical Copper Firming Mist

“This isn’t essential to your self-care desk but as a skin enthusiast, I need to have a few misting sprays nearby to keep my skin hydrated at home. I like this one because it is packed with antioxidants and the copper PCA regulates mu skin's pH levels and apparently that also stimulates collagen. If anything, a few mists throughout the day just make me feel good and that’s all part of self-care, right?” —Sacha Strebe

$35

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Molekule Air Mini

“Air pollution is evident everywhere but even more so in Los Angeles. According to a new report, a lot of the smog actually comes from China. In fact, ”29% of particulates in the San Francisco area came from coal power plants in China." So, I invested in the full-size Moleklule (and a few Dyson air purifiers) for our house but I’m also looking at investing in the mini for my home desk too. Not only does this one clear the air but it also looks chic too. It’s a win-win.” —Sacha Strebe

$399

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Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifer

“The air is really dry in LA. Combine that with the drying effects of an air-conditioner on hot days and it's safe to say my skin is feeling parched. A humidifier is a great option in winter and summer to keep your skin hydrated and in all honesty, it just makes me feel good looking at it. I like this humidifier because it adds moisture to the air in rooms measuring up to 500sq ft. My colleague has the Hey Dewy but it’s much smaller and doesn’t have a strong stream of mist that I like but it is a good price. I have also been eyeing off this Objecto for our house.” —Sacha Strebe

$50

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Soma Glass Carafe

“I love this glass carafe because it filters out any impurities from the tap water. I also love how it looks on my home dining room desk. Just seeing water in this carafe makes me want to drink it.” —Sacha Strebe

$74

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Just Add Watur Motivational Water Bottle

“I am a skin and health nut so it always surprises people when I tell them that I am really bad at drinking water. And when I say bad, I mean really bad. Don’t get me wrong, I drink a lot of liquids. I drink a cup of early grey tea when I wake up, then a coffee, followed by a green smoothie, and then a herbal tea when I get to work (I love the Sakara Detox tea) which I drink throughout the day. But when it comes to water, actual H20, I probably only drink 1 liter. So, I bought one of these motivational water bottles that keeps me accountable. It has the time of day listed so I know how much I need and drink in portions rather than guzzle all at once. So far so good, but we will see.” —Sacha Strebe

$20

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Sakara Beauty and Detox Water Drops

“In a bid to drink more water, I keep these drops on hand to flavor the water and enhance it too. Beauty Water is my favorite with its delicious rose scent. Just a few drops deeply hydrate your cells with naturally-occurring trace minerals missing from tap water.” —Sacha Strebe

$39

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Sandoval Wood Aromatic Concentrate

“I’m all about creating an atmosphere that feels like home and Sandoval definitely brings a piece of our apartment into my cubicle. Peace is my personal favorite because it has the purifying palo santo with sweet frankincense and patchouli. They basically bottled the quintessential California scent. Spray it in the morning to set your space up for success and creativity.” —Sacha Strebe

$60

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An Organized Life Gemini Zodiac Notebook

"I am a sucker for stationary but especially notebooks for journaling, dreaming, and listicles. I always have my diary nearby for all my work notes and lists, but there's something really special about having an additional notebook like this Zodiac one to write down your thoughts, personal achievements, ideas, and wishes for your future. It's been incredibly helpful for me especially during this time.” —Sacha Strebe

$16

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Byredo Rinse-Free Hand Wash

“Our hands touch multiple things throughout the day and we don’t always have time to race to the restroom to wash them for every little thing so I like to have this rinse-free hand wash nearby. It smells amazing and looks so stylish on my desk when I’m not using it. But of course, this doesn't compare to actually washing your hands, so please do that too, and stay safe!” —Sacha Strebe

$37

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Hilma Tension Relief

“I swear by this supplement for relief when I have head tension, which is pretty much unavoidable after spending hours in front of my laptop. It’s a quick fix without any of the unnecessary or harmful ingredients that can be found in other over-the-counter pain-relief solutions.” —Megan Beauchamp

$15

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Have a Nice Day Glass Water Bottle

“Keeping a refillable glass water bottle on my desk is the only way I’ll hit the recommended eight glasses a day. I love this one from Have a Nice Day, which boasts a friendly reminder to keep a positive outlook no matter how many ‘this could have been an email’ meetings you have on your calendar for the day.” —Megan Beauchamp

$18

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Avène Thermal Spring Water

“At first, it felt gratuitous to have a thermal spring water mist on my desk, but it’s a luxury that’s worth every penny. A quick spritz here and there goes a long way in helping me feel refreshed and ready to tackle the next task on my to-do list.” —Megan Beauchamp

$14

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The Sill Philodendron Green

“Plants can do wonders for your wellbeing. They’ve been proven to reduce stress and anxiety, improve air quality, and even enhance cognitive skills. I love having this low-maintenance plant—complete with a sleek modern planter—from The Sill in my WFH office.”

$55

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MegaBabe Hand Sanitizer

“I’m a big fan of this hand sanitizer from MegaBabe. It’s effective without being overly drying. I keep the mini size at my desk and grab it before heading out the door. I also have the large hand sanitizer pump, which I use to refill the conveniently sized mini when it runs out of product.” —Megan Beauchamp

$6

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Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

“One of the biggest perks of working from home has been the ability to diffuse essential oils during the workday. I’ve had a Vitruvi stone diffuser for years, and I highly recommend it. The brand’s Boost Blend of bergamot, grapefruit, juniper, and lime essential oils makes for a great midday pick me up when I hit that 3 pm slump.” —Megan Beauchamp

$119

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Golde Shroom Shield

“Another product that’s great for powering through the 3 pm slump, Golde’s Shroom Shield has a chocolately taste that’s ideal for adding to that afternoon coffee for a tasty pick-me-up that’s just indulgent enough.” —Megan Beauchamp

$22

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Up next: 10 Two-Minute Habits That Will Change Your Life

This story was originally published on July 30, 2020, and has since been updated.

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