Raphael Stevens

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    The Best Life Lessons ‘Ted Lasso’ Taught Me

    Well, friends, the time we’ve all been dreading has finally arrived. The series finale of Ted Lasso has aired and I’m going to be completely honest, I don’t really know what to do with myself now. This show, quite literally, became one of my absolute favorite pieces of media the moment I watched the first episode. If you’ve been following The Everygirl for a while, you might already know this about me—I wrote this article in 2021 practically begging you all to watch the show.
    Since then, Ted Lasso has garnered quite a fanbase. But it’s not just your average TV viewers who can’t get enough, Ted Lasso is also critically acclaimed, having won eight Emmy awards with more certain to come this year. What is it about the show that’s so universally compelling? If you ask me, it comes down to one thing and one thing only: its heart.
    Yes, Ted Lasso is a comedy. But even though it has its fair share of laugh-out-loud moments (maybe even more than its fair share if I’m being honest), the show is really about redemption, growth, what it means to be human, and, in the end, the power of kindness. That sentence, in any other context, would be entirely eye-roll-inducing, but when it comes to Ted Lasso, it’s true and somehow not a total cringefest.
    With season three now behind us and the future of Ted Lasso uncertain at best (I’m holding out for a spinoff, OK?) and nonexistent at worst, I’m looking back at the best life lessons I learned along the way that are certain to stick with me for the rest of my life.
    Note: spoilers for the whole series ahead. 

    1. Forgiveness is freeing
    Forgiveness is the driving force of season three’s penultimate episode, “Mom City.” In it, Ted encourages Jamie (who feels as if he’s “lost his Red Bull wings”) to forgive his dad when he reveals that being angry at him is no longer a sufficient motivator. When Jamie replies that forgiveness is the last thing he wants to give his father (which is fair given their history), Ted replies, “No, you ain’t giving him anything. When you choose to do that, you’re giving that to yourself.”
    Jamie, feeling freer than he has all episode, goes on to have a phenomenal game, helping lift Richmond to victory. That win is great and all, but it’s not what I’m going to remember. Instead, I’m going to remember this lesson on forgiveness. Anger can only take you so far, but forgiveness can set you free.

    2. Be curious, not judgemental
    “Be curious, not judgemental” quickly became one of the show’s most memorable lines back in season one. The scene in which it was said is also one for the history books. In it, Ted and Rupert, the ex-husband Rebecca is hell-bent on getting revenge on in the first season, place a bet over a game of darts. The details of the bet aren’t important, what is important is the lesson Ted weaves into his final throw of the game.
    Rupert views the game of darts as an easy way to get what he wants and asks Ted only one question before agreeing to the deal, “Have you played a lot of darts, Ted?” If Rupert had paused for a moment and been curious rather than judgemental, he might have asked better questions and realized playing darts with Ted was never going to go his way as Ted has been playing darts for his entire life. Instead, Rupert believes he has Ted completely figured out, which is an experience Ted reveals he is all too familiar with.
    During the scene, Ted reveals that when he came across the quote, “Be curious, not judgemental,” something clicked for him. The guys that used to bully him never learned the importance of curiosity and instead judged everything and everyone. In Ted’s case, his bullies, and later Rupert, underestimated him, believed they had him all figured out, and judged him based on that perception. In life, being curious allows you to get to know someone for who they really are while being judgmental holds you back from making real connections.

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    3. We should care
    In season three, Colin comes out to the team and truthfully, it goes as well as a person could want. Instantly, the Richmond team tells Colin that his sexuality doesn’t matter to them, that they don’t care, and that they still love and respect him. Sounds great, right? Ted then steps in and announces that actually, no, they do care.
    In true Ted fashion, he then launches into a personal analogy that only Americans can truly get, but his point is clear: We should care about our friends, their identities, and the things they care about. Ted says, “The point is Colin, We don’t not care. We care very much. We care about who you are and what you must’ve been going through. But hey, from now on, you don’t have to go through it all by yourself.” Offering support in this manner not only validates a person’s experience but also is a marker of true friendship.

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    4. Revenge isn’t the answer
    I’ve been a Rebecca apologist from day one, but in the spirit of the show, I have to admit: Her revenge mission was never going to be as personally satisfying as she hoped it would be. Sabotaging Richmond, the “one thing” Rupert really loved, would have brought Rebecca a brief feeling of triumph, but along the way, she had to hurt and use a bunch of people who were just trying to do some good for the team. When Rebecca finally comes clean, it’s clear the guilt from following through with her plan would have eaten her alive.
    So while getting revenge may seem like the only way to make yourself feel better after you’ve been hurt (we’ve all been there), the high will always be short-lived. Truly, moving on and healing on your own time to the point where the person who hurt you no longer holds power over you is more powerful than revenge will ever be. If I wasn’t trying to apply this show’s life lessons to real life, though, you better believe I’d be rooting for Rebecca to take Rupert for every single thing he has.

    5. Everyone can benefit from therapy
    In season two, Ted Lasso introduces sports psychologist Dr. Sharon Fieldstone to Richmond. Throughout the season, Dr. Sharon meets with the players and helps them work through their off-the-field stuff so that they can be better players on the field (and, you know, have better mental health all around). Somewhat uncharacteristically, Ted is the one who is most reluctant to visit Dr. Sharon. He’d much rather talk to the people that really know him (like friends) when he needs advice. Suddenly, the Diamond Dogs start to make a whole lot more sense.
    However, the lesson Ted learns, which I believe many can take away from the show, is that, no matter how much you think it won’t work for you, therapy could be exactly what you need to finally work through and heal from the things that life has thrown your way.
    Later in season two, we learn that Ted’s dad committed suicide when he was 16, and Ted has thus far coped by focusing all of his attention on others, spreading positivity left and right, and burying his own emotions. When Ted finally seeks Dr. Sharon’s help, therapy proves to be the thing that finally helps him confront the deeply rooted issues he’s spent the better part of his life pretending don’t exist. While Ted works tirelessly to help everyone around him become the best version of themselves, therapy helps him finally do the same for himself.

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    6. Be a goldfish
    Shortly after Sam Obisanya makes a mistake during a training session, Jamie relentlessly mocks him (this was pre-redemption arc, mind you). While Roy takes a more confrontational approach and shoves Jamie away from Sam, Ted pulls Sam aside and tells him to “be a goldfish” as their short-term memory makes them the happiest animal on the planet. Though Sam looks baffled by Ted (again, this was early days before Ted’s philosophy fully made sense to everyone), the message is clear: Don’t dwell on mistakes. Instead, be a goldfish, forget about them, and move on. Keep this in mind next time you fail to catch a typo in an important email.

    7. Don’t judge someone by their lowest moment
    I’ve gone back and forth on whether this one should really be “everyone deserves a second chance.” There are a whole lot of second chances in Ted Lasso; Rebecca, Jamie, and Nate all receive second chances from Ted. And it’s a valuable lesson to keep in mind—second chances should be given, but I don’t believe that rule is as universal as this one (Rupert, I’m looking at you). Instead, I believe the lesson about second chances really has to do with judgment, when you pass it, and how you decide whether someone is deserving of that second chance.
    This comes into play in Ted Lasso when Ted shares the full video of Nate destroying the team’s “Believe” sign. As with many of Ted’s analogies, it’s not clear where he’s going, but at the end of his speech he tells Beard, “I hope that either all of us or none of us are judged by the actions we take in our weakest moments, but rather for the strength we show if and when we’re given a second chance.” We later learn that Ted gave Beard a second chance many years ago, and now it’s Beard’s turn to extend that courtesy.
    This is why I think the overall lesson Ted Lasso is trying to teach us isn’t that everyone deserves a second chance, it’s that we shouldn’t judge a person by the things they do when they’re at their lowest. Instead, give them grace, maybe a little forgiveness, and offer a second chance from there… unless they’re Rupert. More

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    7 inspiring Emirates flight attendants establishing new career paths

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Today, May 31, 2023, we celebrate International Flight Attendant Day.
    Balancing two careers doesn’t come easy, but Emirates cabin crew members show us how it’s done.
    From launching their own fashion labels to jewellery brands, these talented individuals have made a mark for themselves beyond the world of aviation.
    To champion these talented cabin crew members, Emirates Woman has curated a list of flight attendants who prove that you can do both.
    Luciana Tanase

    Besides her full-time career as an Emirates cabin crew member, Luciana Tanase has also founded her own fashion label, I-LO. This Romanian-based fashion label offers an array of everyday wardrobe staples such as crop tops and partywear pieces. With a passion for travelling, she’s managed to garner a massive fan base and dedicate time to growing her fashion brand’s presence online.
    Yassmine El Kholy

    With a passion for yoga and other meditation practices such as sound healing, Yassmine Elkholy is a part-time yoga instructor and an Emirates cabin crew member. She has been part of several campaigns for brands such as Reebok and Alo Yoga, making a mark for herself in the world of fitness. With a focus on complicated poses, she has garnered a dedicated audience who are keen to learn about the practice.
    Maria Soldatova

    With over 11 years of flying experience, Maria Soldatova is a long-standing Emirates cabin crew member. With her dedicated love for travelling, Soldatova decided to launch her own jewellery brand, Zoldi Jewels, designed with all the wanderlust inspiration. The pieces consist of airplanes, seashells, a map and various countries she’s visited around the globe. The pieces are sustainably produced in a conscious environment for the workers. As an entrepreneur, she has learned the art of dedicating her efforts to both her profession and brand.
    Danai

    Danai has visited over 48 countries as an Emirates flight attendant. Originally from Greece, she has established herself as a travel content creator with her pictures from around the globe. From surfing to skydiving, she’s always on a mission to try out new activities while sharing her fashion inspiration. Her loyal fan base is always keen to see where she’s off to next and what her outfits are.
    Margot

    With long-haul flights and numerous hours spent on air, Margot started her own YouTube channel and is now a part-time vlogger. With all the new countries she has visited, she shares snippets of her life as a cabin crew member, her channel has reached over 51,000 subscribers.
    Hana Brvar

    This Slovenian cabin crew member has travelled to a host of countries around the world. After pursuing her law degree, she decided to become a full-time flight attendant and makes time for her hobby as a professional ski instructor. From Portugal to Sri Lanka, she has seen the world and constantly shares photos of her travel experiences.
    Olia Podvolotskaya

    Podvolotskaya wears many hats. Along with being an Emirates cabin crew, she has been a dancer for 18 years and is also a part-time English and German teacher and interpreter. In May 2022, she officially completed her training programme and is now a full-time flight attendant for Emirates.
    So, who says you can’t do two things at once?
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @luciana_tanase More

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    How I got my job as… founder of this one-stop-shop party supplies store in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week Emirates Woman spoke to Aisha Leitner, CEO and Founder of Party Camel, a homegrown party supplies brand in the UAE.
    Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, this e-party and brick-and-mortar shop has partyware for people of all ages.
    The idea was born when her daughter turned one, it took her one more baby and a few more years until Aisha took the plunge and started as an online Party Shop. What started from her storeroom has now grown to be one of the largest platforms for party supplies in the country.
    To learn more about her journey as an entrepreneur, Emirates Woman sat down with Leitner to understand how it all began.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    I grew up in Kashmir, Pakistan and my favourite subject was languages. I loved my native language Urdu and could read Urdu literature for hrs and loved poetry too.
    What was your first job?
    I worked in a community centre in Youth & community development, in the north of England and absolutely loved my job helping other young people to find their way.

    What brought you to Dubai?
    I came to Dubai with Emirates Airlines to travel the world and live in Dubai for one year and 20 years later I am still here! My background is in HR and I was also lucky enough to work with Emirates Airlines recruitment, flying around the world recruiting both cabin crew and pilots. It certainly was a very glamourous job.
    What inspired you to enter the events space and launch Party Camel?
    While planning my daughter’s first birthday party in 2009, I struggled to find pretty things locally to celebrate her ‘fairies in the garden’ themed party. I faced the same problem soon again in 2010 while celebrating my son’s first birthday the hungry caterpillar theme. This inspired me to start a party business in 2013 and bring design-led and trendy party products to the region. We started life as an e-commerce online party shop from my store room at home.
    Talk us through the inspiration behind your themes and supplies.
    I always look to my kids and see what they are into, and also what is currently trending. This shapes all the decisions on what products we should carry in our shop.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    I am involved in all daily operations of the business. From marketing, buying, recruitment and managing the day-to-day running of the business. No two days are the same and I love what I do.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    My day usually starts at 6am with a cup of tea and journalling. Then I help get my kids ready for school although they are getting very independent now. Once they are off to school I take some time for myself, I like to then exercise if I can before I head out to work. I sometimes pick up the kids but more often than not I finish work around 5pm. I then take the kids to their late afternoon activities. They are both super sporty and play all sports for their school! and have very busy schedules. We all make a point to have dinner together in the evening and focus on family time. Weekends are filled with sports, friends and lots of outdoor activities, from hiking, and beach days to triathlons and much more. We are a very active family.

    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    I would say go for it. Starting your own business can be daunting but so rewarding too. It’s very important to surround yourself with the right people. This includes a supportive network of family/friends but also a good team. Take time to build and then nourish this, it’s the only way to succeed.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    To take the leap and sign up for a warehouse! I outsourced this at the beginning and for so long, as I found the responsibility to manage this overwhelming. When I did take this on, I wondered why I didnt do it earlier. It changed everything and having all stock and staff under one roof made things so much easier to manage. A friend encouraged me to do this and I’m thankful for this advice.
    And what is the worst?
    You can only trust yourself, Absolutely no way. There’s only so far you can go when you try to control everything and all the details. Especially, if you are a perfectionist but you have to learn to let go and pick your battles. Understand what is important to you and let others take responsibility for certain areas of the business.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    To build a good team! And this is still a work in progress. You have to find the right people and they are out there. People who are passionate about what you are trying to do and achieve. Setting a clear vision and focusing on this.
    What are the future plans for your brand?
    I feel like we have come a long way as we celebrate our 10-year anniversary this month. Getting this far has been a huge achievement and we celebrated with a BIG party including covering our whole warehouse in Balloons. We hope to continue t be a source of ideas and inspiration for busy parents in the region and to provide them with beautiful products and help them to celebrate all of life’s special occasions in style. After all, life is to be celebrated, and we help you to do so with style.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @partycamel More

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    Ahead of the Royal Wedding: Prince Hussein & Rajwa Al Saif’s adorable moments

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan is getting married to Rajwa Al Saif of Saudi Arabia tomorrow.
    The Royal couple got engaged last year in August at the to-be bride’s paternal home in Saudi. Ever since the engagement, the couple have made multiple joint appearances in public, the most recent being Princess Iman of Jordan’s wedding in March.
    The grand ceremony will take place on June 1, 2023. The ceremony will take place at Zahran Palace, after the ceremony, the red procession will depart from Zahran Palace to Husseiniya Palace, and then their Majesties will start to receive guests at Al-Hussainiya Palace to attend the dinner banquet.
    Roya TV, a Jordanian private independent satellite TV channel, based in Amman will be providing live coverage of the wedding. The wedding will start at 16:00 (AST)/ 17:00 (GST).
    In the spirit of #CelebratingAlHussein, the Royal Hashemite Court also shared the official logo of the wedding. “As the date of the wedding of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein and Miss Rajwa Khalid Alseif nears, we are pleased to share the official logo to mark the occasion, which is Arabic for ‘we rejoice’.”

    Last week, Queen Rania of Jordan celebrated the bride-to-be with a grand henna party. Attended by family members from both sides, it was a traditional affair where the bride wore a white and gold dress by the Saudi-based designer Honayda Serafi.
    With just one day left to the most-awaited Jordanian Royal Wedding, here are some of the most adorable moments shared between Crown Prince Hussein and Rajwa Al Saif.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @alhusseinjo @queenrania  More

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    in health and weelbeing

    6 Steps That’ll Help You To Quit Smoking – For Good

    Decided to quit smoking? Good for you! Want to double your odds of never lighting up again? Use this guide to stomp out your habit once and for all.

    Why you should think about quitting smoking

    First, it’s a gateway to disease. Since it puts a strain on your cardiovascular system, you’re more at risk for those types of diseases, which are the leading cause of death worldwide. Think: heart disease and strokes. There are myriad ways smoking negatively impacts the body, from bad breath to gum disease and even infertility.

    This step-by-step guide, backed by science, shows you what to be prepared for when you quit smoking, along with some tips to help.

    Step One: Set A Date

    According to the National Council Against Smoking, it’s important to set a date to quit so you can mentally and emotionally prepare for it. The good news: for women, picking the day is easy.

    Why? US researchers found that women who quit smoking during the first half of their menstrual cycle may have the edge over those who stop during the second half. In the study, tobacco withdrawal symptoms were less severe for the women who quit between days one and 14 of their cycle, compared to those who quit between day 14 and the start of their next period.

    Do it! Track your cycle and mark the date on your calendar. Tell your friends, family and colleagues when the big day is so they can encourage you to stick to it.

    Step Two: Clean House

    As a smoker, you’re never alone. The strong scent of tobacco follows you in clothes, ashtrays, even curtains – but if you’re serious about quitting, you can’t have it hanging around.

    Why? Studies show that when exposed to familiar smoking visuals, parts of the brain like the amygdala activate craving responses. “Addictive behaviours become associated with cues in one’s environment. These cues then act as triggers, which cause cravings,” explains Candice Garrun, a mental health therapist and founder of the website Addictionology.co.za. “Don’t put yourself in situations that trigger you! If you hang out at a barber’s shop often enough, you will eventually get a haircut.”

    Do it! Tidy up. Throw out all smoking paraphernalia like ashtrays and lighters. Clean your clothes, carpets, curtains and bedding. This strategy helped 30-year-old Marilize, who has been smoke-free for two years after reading The Easy Way To Stop Smoking by Allan Carr. “We cleaned out the house! The book guides you through the whole process,” she says. “After a while, smoking began to gross me out – the smell and everything about it.”

    Step Three: Get A Hobby

    Make it something you can do as quickly as lighting up and turn to it when you’re tempted.

    Why? Taking up a new pastime will help channel your thoughts and fill the void that smoking once occupied.“Habits actually change your brain in ways that can bring relief from cravings and get you started on a path to joy and hope,” says Joburg-based clinical psychologist Elizabeth Cambanis, who has worked with patients who struggle with chemical and behavioural addiction. WH reader Chantelle used this method to kick the habit two years ago. “I found a new hobby. I now fill my time with exercise and baking – and yes, I did gain some weight. But it’s worth it.”

    Do it! Keep your hands busy with knitting, painting or playing a musical instrument. Not your pace? Engage in activities where you can’t smoke, like riding a bike or swimming. Moderate and vigorous exercise will help reduce cigarette cravings and stave them off for longer.

    Step Four: Control Your Triggers

    To avoid a relapse, it’s vital to keep your smoke triggers in check – specific people, places or emotions that make you want to smoke.

    Why? The longer you’ve smoked, the stronger the connections are between these triggers and your urges. For on-off smoker Thokozile (29), it’s a TV show. “I still sigh with longing when I watch old episodes of Sex and the City,” she says. “I quit for months – even up to a year – but when I watch SJP I often think, ‘It’s been long enough, I’ve done well’.” Triggers may include being around other smokers, feeling stressed or excited, drinking coffee or tea, or enjoying a meal. You can’t always avoid trigger situations, but it’s important to recognise the thoughts you have around smoking because acknowledging them can help you change your behaviour, explains Cambanis.

    Do it! Change your routine. Take note of how you feel just before you smoke and identify what made you light up. Being conscious of these things will help you remove your trigger. Coffee time? Have a glass of water instead.

    Step Five: Prepare For Withdrawal

    The physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal are rough, but not life-threatening. Still, if you’re not prepared, they may be just awful enough to weaken your resolve.

    Why? Because smoking’s addictive. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation SA, addiction to nicotine occurs quickly and is difficult to shake. Nicotine stimulates the reward pathways of your brain, prompting pleasant, happy feelings – and making quitting tough. “The first few weeks are the hardest,” says Cambanis. “If you’re feeling nauseated, any carbonated beverage should help and nausea only lasts a week or two.” A third of ex-smokers report headaches – often due to changing brain oxygen levels, according to Cambanis. Hang in there – they do pass in time.

    Do it! “Ensure you get more sleep, stretch, or practise deep breathing and relaxation techniques,” suggests Cambanis. Quitting smoking happens one minute, one hour and one day at a time. Don’t think about the long-term.

    Step Six: Gather Your Support Group

    Rally support from a close friend or family member.Why? Friends can talk you through difficult situations. The first seven to 10 days are the toughest and smokers who relapse typically do so within the first three months. Counsellors can help you identify your triggers and determine what strategy is most likely to work for you. “Sadly, few people seek professional help and more frequently try to quit on their own. It’s very hard to do it alone and you don’t have to,” says Garrun. Plus, a meta-analysis found that counselling resulted in higher rates of smoking cessation.Do it! Get help. WH reader Joanne did – and succeeded: “I stopped after 10 years using a programme called Smoke Enders. It’s been five years and I’m still smoke-free.” Also, reinforce your success with rewards. This is another strategy that helped Marilize. “I made myself a deal that I could use the money I used to spend on cigarettes on magazines. What a joy!” More

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    Streaming soon: new HBO series to watch now that ‘Succession’ is over

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    A painful reality we all live in nowadays is trying to fill the void when our favourite TV series ends.
    Hot off the spectacular ending of Succession, HBO is already on a roll to release its next hit drama, The Idol. From Euphoria to White Lotus to its latest hit Succession — we can’t help but get excited with the premise The Idol brings.
    The brainchild of Abel Tesfaye (formerly) known as The Weeknd, this series has been co-created with Euphoria‘s Sam Levinson and Iranian creative producer Reza Fahim. It hit its world premiere at the 76th Cannes Film Festival this year — screening the first two episodes, sparking conversations ahead of the first episode streaming which airs on June 4, 2023.

    The scandalous plot is based on “the sleaziest love story in Hollywood”, tells The Weeknd, who plays as a self-help guru and modern-day cult leader. He brainwashes Jocelyn, a troubled pop star, played by Lily Rose-Depp into a clichéd dangerous world of illegal substances and everything in between. While it’s nowhere near original nor disruptive, it is still worth watching a few more episodes for the ensembles and the vibe.
    The star-studded production also features pop singer Troye Sivan, K-pop star Jennie Ruby Jane of Blackpink, Dan Levy, Eli Roth, and more.

    Press play to watch the official teaser of HBO’s The Idol:
    [embedded content]
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Instagram @theidol More

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    5 Boundaries That Successful Women Practice Every Day

    It’s time to talk about a major life hack that can make a huge difference in your career, personal relationships, finances, and health. Boundaries. They aren’t easy to set or enforce, but the hard work you put in upfront when you establish clear boundaries can create a ripple effect throughout your entire life. That’s why so many successful women consistently practice setting boundaries every single day. It’s no secret that women are all too often expected to balance a lot, but it isn’t our job to rise to the expectations that other people set for us. Finding success in all areas of your life takes focus and by setting boundaries with everyone in your life, you can free up a lot of time and energy to devote to building your dream life.
    Let’s take a look at some of the boundaries that successful women practice every day so you can start to think about how you could change your day-to-day life for the better.

    1. Saying No
    Two small letters can lead to a whole lot of progress. Will you drive me to the airport? Will you clean up the break room? Will you tutor my child after work? Will you…You get the gist. There’s nothing wrong with someone asking you for a favor, but there’s also nothing wrong with saying no to that favor if it’s something you don’t feel you can accommodate. Saying yes to everything that comes your way is the shortest route to burnout. 
    Successful women know how to prioritize their work and say “no” to nonessential requests. Saying “no” should be a guilt-free answer. If a request makes you feel uncomfortable, say no. If a request will make it hard for you to prioritize your wellness like a full night’s sleep, working out, or eating three meals a day, say no. If a request means you’ll work overtime instead of focusing on your personal life, you can say no. 
    Saying no applies to fun things too. You don’t have to go to every party or family brunch. Once you get over the initial awkwardness, you’ll feel great, we promise. 

    2. Turning On ‘Do Not Disturb’
    Having technology readily available at our fingertips does not mean you owe everyone you know constant access to you. Continuous interruptions throughout the day can be immensely distracting which can make it harder to accomplish your goals in a timely manner—whether that be finishing a work project or finally getting through your book club read. Successful women set communication boundaries by turning off notifications and responding to emails, texts, and calls at a time that works best for them. This simple boundary helps reduce stress and distraction, thus improving productivity and making it easier to manage tasks efficiently. 

    3. Delegating and Outsourcing
    You don’t only need to set boundaries with other people, you also need to set them with yourself. One major boundary worth implementing is letting go and being able to delegate and outsource. Successful women know there are only so many hours in the day (please don’t compare yourself to Beyoncé) and that the secret to getting more done effectively is to delegate or outsource certain tasks. 
    Whether you pass off work to an assistant or team member, hire someone to put together your new furniture, or simply pick up a gorgeous cake at Whole Foods instead of making it yourself before your BFF’s birthday party, delegating and outsourcing can help you find success and balance in one fell swoop. 

    4. Protecting Their Financial Interests
    Other people love to tell you how to spend your money, even though they may not realize that’s what they’re doing. Successful women know that a huge element of reaching their personal, career, and financial goals is to be strategic with their money. That can mean saving, paying down debt, or investing. When a friend is pushing you to go all out for a night on the town or your parents really want you to travel across the country for that third cousin’s wedding, you can set boundaries that protect your financial interests. 
    It’s important to remember that your financial well-being is your priority. If you’re feeling pressured to go out to expensive dinners or travel to far-flung destinations, you can simply shut down that pressure by saying no. If you have an intimate relationship with the person, you may choose to clue them into your financial goals and how they impact your spending decisions, but you also don’t have to share anything about your finances if you don’t want to. By setting clear boundaries and communicating openly with those around you, you can build stronger, more sustainable relationships while also setting yourself up for a brighter financial future.

    5. Refusing To Give Excuses
    When we refuse a request or say no to someone, we don’t have to justify or apologize for our decision. One major boundary you can set is not owing anyone an explanation. You don’t have to justify any answers you give when you’re trying to set boundaries that work for your schedule or comfort level. 
    There’s no need to give elaborate excuses because that implies you owe the other person a worthy reason for not complying with their request. Only you need to be comfortable with your reason for saying no. Successful women don’t need to devote any time or energy to coming up with “good” excuses when that brain space can go towards much more important things.  
    Can’t attend that family function? Don’t have time to work on that extra project at work? Want to skip the overpriced bachelorette weekend for a friend you aren’t that close to? Stop giving excuses. A vague, “I’m sorry, I won’t be able to make it” or a quick “My workload is too heavy to take on that project right now” will do the trick. 

    7 Productivity Habits Successful Women Practice More

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    50 Therapy Dupes That’ll Send Your Serotonin Skyrocketing

    I’m a longtime proponent of talk therapy. But the ability to share thoughts and process experiences with an objective professional is a privilege. When the dupe trend expanded to therapy, I was intrigued, but also cautious. It felt insensitive and even harmful to propose that a candle, bubble bath, or silky sheets could provide the same mental clarity and support as speaking with a therapist.
    But since diving deeper into the trend—which currently stands at 95.4 million views on TikTok—I’ve learned to think of these “dupes” not as true replacements, but as mood-boosting strategies that can be practiced alongside traditional talk therapy. In an article for Mental, Shelby Castile, LMFT defines the difference between therapy dupes and psychotherapy: “In-depth psychotherapy helps people deal with issues related to their mental health, which in turn affects the rest of their lives long-term. Therapy dupes seem to be more focused on the short term. They can be a fun way to increase motivation and get people started on a more authentic approach to self-improvement.”
    Bottom line: Always seek out professional therapy, especially if you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, boundary setting, etc. But if you’re looking for tips to get a little mood boost, keep reading. These are my favorite “therapy dupes” for finding calm, expressing gratitude, and connecting with joy.

    50 Therapy Dupes for an Instant Mood Boost
    1. Take a mindful girl walk. Ditch the AirPods—and your phone—and connect with the sounds, sights, and scents around you. Instant grounding.
    2. Pet a pet. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or hamster, spend a few minutes with your fur baby and feed off their inherent comfort.
    3. Do your nails. You can immediately feel put together, but doing your own nails can also act as a mindfulness practice. And if you’re really going for the dopamine, opt for bright colors.
    4. Swap around your space. Situate your favorite reading chair in the spot that gets the most sun. Clean off your desktop to help clear your head. Move a side table next to your bed and stack it high with your favorite books. Let your home reflect the joy and inner peace you want to cultivate.
    5. Call a friend. Obvious, but effective. When I’m feeling down, I notice that stepping outside of myself and asking about a friend’s day is the easiest way to shift my mood for the better.
    6. Eat something colorful. Whether it’s a smoothie, a seasonal salad, or baked goods with colorful frosting (recommended), take the adage to heart and taste the rainbow.
    7. Get outside. I don’t care how you do it—whether you’re swimming, hiking, or exploring a local park—just don’t forget the SPF.
    8. Take a nap. The simple act of giving yourself a break can do wonders.
    9. Light a candle. Aromatherapy is real. Soak it up.
    10. Make your favorite comfort meal. Despite the many rom-coms that have tried to convince us otherwise, Ben & Jerry’s won’t fix all of your problems. But when I want to feel like a kid again who had a bad day at school, I mother myself and stir up a little stovetop mac & cheese.
    11. Turn off your alarm. If it’s the weekend or you have a day off, try letting your body sleep until it naturally wants to wake up. Yes, consistent sleep and wake times are important, but so is rest.
    12. Play a game. They’re the ultimate escape. Make it social and invite friends over for Monopoly, get outside and play pickleball, or go down the rabbit hole that is The New York Times “Play” section. A rousing round of Wordle, anyone?
    13. Leave your home and get a “treat.” I love calling my Starbucks runs, library finds, and thrifted gems little “treats.” It’s such a joyful mindset shift.
    14. Play with clay. I’ve recently rekindled my love of making things with air-dry and oven-dry clay. Try this minimalist trivet, these jewelry dishes, or these cute polymer clay earrings.
    15. Learn a new skill. This one can be tricky because if you’re in need of a therapy dupe that gives instant gratification, this might not be it. But long-term, learning how to sew, roller skate, or bake something pretty can bring so much meaning and fulfillment to your days.
    16. Take a day trip. Download podcasts, make a playlist, and get in the car or hop on the subway. Shaking up your routine and changing your environment is one of the most effective ways to transform your experience.
    17. Go to the library or visit a bookstore. Did anyone else love doing the summer reading challenges as a kid? There’s truly nothing quite like a fresh stack of books to make you feel inspired. Find a few faves and enjoy updating your TBR.
    18. Have a girls’ weekend. Whether it’s a sleepover chez toi or renting a cabin with your besties, plan an overnight full of food, time outside, deep conversations, and plenty of cute photo ops.
    19. Jam out. Siri, play “Lavender Haze.”
    20. Organize one thing. It can be your junk drawer, beauty cabinet, or closet. Nothing lifts my mood quite like a satisfying before and after. And if you don’t have the energy to do it yourself, there’s always HGTV.
    21. Make a friendship bracelet. Pay a visit to the craft store, press play to your favorite show, and turn your living room floor into your dedicated DIY station. I love sending bracelets to friends far away and delivering them in person to my local pals.
    22. Orient your routines toward joy. I used to think about my morning and nighttime routines simply in the context of how I could be the most productive. But now, I’m learning to see this as my time to simply be. That can mean finishing my current read, journaling, moving my body, or scrolling through my favorite accounts. Remember: what brings you joy is deeply personal and entirely unique.
    23. Find a body of water. Bathing suit, sunscreen, beach read—check.
    24. Upgrade your H2O. Romanticize hydration by mixing in an electrolyte powder, DIY ice cubes, or sliced fruit. It’s pretty, it’s tasty, and yes, absolutely necessary.
    25. Visit a craft market or fair. I just went to Renegade Craft in Chicago this past weekend and not only was the experience inspiring, but it helped me feel more connected to my local community. Research fairs in your city or stay up to date on where your favorite makers are popping up next.

    26. Makeover your books. Want the Penguin Classics look for your romance novels? It’s possible! Watch this tutorial for tips.
    27. Brainstorm your biggest dreams. I love doing mind dumps—it’s a fun way to get all of your hopes and wants for the future out on the page. I find that writing my goals, no matter how lofty or seemingly impossible, helps them feel one step closer to being realized. And if you haven’t done it before, prepare for how energized and inspired you’ll feel after.
    28. Create mood lighting. My mood used to drop a little in the evenings, but when I started making my home cozier at night (lighting a few candles, turning on some jazz, making a cup of tea, and never, ever using the “big” light), it became something to look forward to and a nice way to transition to my after-work routine.
    29. Take a Target trip. If you’re a true Target girlie, then you know: you don’t even need to buy anything to experience the retail-adjacent joy.
    30. Pair your workouts with community. Brands like Outdoor Voices and FORM host regular workouts, walks, and community events in cities across the country. Do a little research and get moving!
    31. Clean out your inbox. Let tools like Unroll.Me do the hard work and clear out the clutter. Once you’re unsubscribed from the emails you don’t want, start researching and signing up for newsletters that’ll bring you weekly joy. Some of my faves? Slow Brew Sunday by Jules Acree, On the Rocks by Olivia Noceda, and Intelligent Weekly by Intelligent Change.
    32. Indulge in escapism. Y’all, I’m in my #cottagecore era and I can’t recommend taking a deep dive into the Jane Austen-esque hashtag enough.
    33. Take an “Everything Shower.” It’s luxe, it’s lengthy, and it’ll make you feel amazing when you step out. Consult this list for everything you need.
    34. Schedule a free day. Every so often, I love intentionally having a “no-spend” day. With the goal of zero dollars spent, I’m inspired to connect with simpler joys. Walks, reading, catching up with friends, making something, writing—you’ll be surprised by how expansive the experience can be.
    35. Update your wardrobe. In the spirit of the therapy dupe above, try doing this without buying new pieces. Have you ever noticed that, no matter how many clothes you have in your closet, you often gravitate toward the same couple of pieces? With the items you have available, select a new capsule wardrobe collection. You’ll rediscover dresses, find new ways to style your shorts, and maybe even uncover a few tees that’ll infuse your current style with more personality.
    36. Re-watch your favorite movies or series as a kid. Couldn’t get enough of Kim Possible? Craving the ultimate Y2K inspo à la Lizzie McGuire? See what’s available on your favorite streaming platform and cue the nostalgia.
    37. Organize your saved posts. There’s a reason you flagged them! Go through your Instagram saves and delegate them to folders that’ll make them easier to reference. By making a “workout” folder, I can easily access videos that have inspired me to switch up my gym routine, making exercise all the more enjoyable. (Yes, really!)
    38. Go on an ice cream date. There is nothing I love more in the summer than texting a friend to see if they’re up for a cone walk. I haven’t been turned down yet.
    39. Experiment with a trending food. I won’t say that I was obsessed with cottage cheese before it became cool, but… I do feel seen in its recent rise to TikTok fame. I use it to make banana bread, a quick lunch, or a protein-packed dip.
    40. Make a bouquet. With Trader Joe’s blooms, wildflowers, or whatever you can find. Nothing delights quite like bringing nature indoors.
    41. DIY art for your home. Art can be pricey, but good news: you can make colorful, joy-sparking prints yourself! Here’s all the inspo you need to unlock your inner artiste.
    42. Start a scrapbook. I’ve been keeping a scrapbook since I was 14. Not only do I like looking back on my treasured memories over the years, but I love having a space of my own that I can curate and personalize. It brings me joy just to flip through its pages.
    43. Make a mocktail. Skip the glass of wine and opt for a hangover-free sipper. Try one of our favorite zero-proof recipes.
    44. Wear your favorite outfit. Whenever I need to boost my mood, there’s only one dress that will do. She’s loose but flattering, pretty but comfy. A nap dress is my go-to for making me feel undeniably amazing—what’s yours?
    45. Change your phone/computer background. You know where to go.
    46. Use a disposable camera. I love the trend of capturing life through analog devices. If you want to spend less time on your phone but still want to document your experience, stock up.
    47. Hug someone heart-to-heart. With your partner, a friend, or anyone you feel safe with and want to express love for, try what’s called hugging “heart to heart.” It’s an intentional way of experiencing close, physical connection and truly being present with someone you love.
    48. Learn to embroider. I’ve been looking for more ways to personalize my style and make my clothing feel entirely and uniquely my own. Adding sweet details on your jeans pocket or along a sleeve is a fun way to infuse your wardrobe with personality.
    49. Write affirmations on your mirror. If saying positive affirmations out loud feels uncomfortable, write a few on a sticky note and keep it somewhere you’ll see every day. Even just reading them daily can go a long way in shifting your thought patterns.
    50. Feel your feelings. It might sound counterintuitive, but when your emotions feel heavy and overwhelming, let them flow. Cry if you need to. The experience can be uncomfortable, but it can also feel cathartic and powerful. And the more we practice leaning into our feelings, the more we can welcome them with kindness and grace.

    Experts Believe “Joy Snacking” Is the Key to Consistently Feeling Happier More