Raphael Stevens

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    12 Words and Phrases You Might Be Using Wrong

    Ah, grammar — people either hate it with every fiber of their beings or absolutely love it, and I’ve always fallen into the latter category. Luckily, I’m an editorial assistant and copy editor here at The Everygirl, which means my days are filled with correcting all of the mistakes my word-filled heart could ever desire.
    With this, however, comes correcting the same mistakes — over, and over, and over, and over. There are a select few grammar mistakes that people continually make, and in the same breath, words and phrases that people continually misuse.
    While I already dove into the most common writing mistakes I see, I also see the same words and phrases misused all of the time. These are the ones that are at the top of my list (and the list is not a place you want to be).

    1. Literally
    This is the 2019 version of Valley Girl diction, and is obviously frequently used intentionally wrong to be dramatic. Trust me, I get it — contrary to what I said when I got into the office this morning, I was not literally going to die if I didn’t get an iced americano.
    But in writing, literally is used frequently where it isn’t necessary — literally means that something is actually literal. While it isn’t necessary to say a jacket that only comes in four colors comes in “literally a thousand colors,” you could have “received literally 100 emails today”— literally!
    While you’re writing, your best bet is to stick to “literally” when you really mean it.

    2. Infamous
    What people think it means: A synonym for ‘famous’
    What it really means: Well-known for a bad quality or deed
    Maddie is infamously horrible at singing.

    3. Travesty
    What people think it means: A tragedy
    What it really means: A false or distorted representation of something
    Jussie Smollett’s charges getting dropped is a travesty of the justice system.

    4. Entitled
    “I watched a movie entitled Us this weekend!”
    What people think it means: A descriptor for a title
    What it really means: Entitled means believing you deserve special treatment — it shouldn’t be used to describe the name of something.

    5. Good/ well
    People always think good and well can be used interchangeably, but that isn’t the case.
    Good is an adjective, while well is an adverb answering a “how” question.
    Examples:
    She did a good job. (Good is describing job, which is a noun.)
    She did the job well. (Well is an adverb describing how the job was done.)

    When referring to health, use well.
    You don’t look well!
    When describing emotion, use good.
    I don’t feel good about this project.

     
    6. Disinterested
    What people think it means: Bored; not interested
    What it really means: Not influenced for selfish reasons; unbiased
    She gave me disinterested finance advice.

    When you want to express a lack of interest, use uninterested instead of disinterested — it does mean lacking interest.
    I was uninterested in our conversation about types of cars. 

    7. Without further ado
    Incorrect: Without further adieu — which means goodbye in French
    Correct: Without further ado — meaning without further delay
    Without further ado, here are my favorite products of the year.

    8. Plethora
    What people think it means: A lot
    What it really means: An excess or overabundance of something
    A plethora of horror movies have come out this year.

    9. For all intents and purposes
    Incorrect: For all intensive purposes
    Correct: For all intents and purposes — meaning “in effect.”
    For all intents and purposes, the beaches are open today.

    10. Dilemma
    What people think it means: A problem
    What it really means: A choice between two equally undesirable options
    I had to choose between eating asparagus and broccoli — it was a dilemma.

    11. I could care less
    When people say “they could care less,” they usually mean “they couldn’t care less.”
    Correct: I couldn’t care less — meaning that you don’t care
    Incorrect: I could care less — meaning you do care

    12. Aesthetic
    Aesthetic is a noun describing a set of principles underlying and guiding the work of a particular artist — or Instagrammer.
    “I love her feed’s aesthetic.”
    It also can be an adjective, referring to a concern or appreciation of beauty.
    “That picture gives me such great aesthetic pleasure.”
    People frequently say “that’s so aesthetic” — don’t.

    Bonus: Plural last names
    Christmastime is a doozy for me, and let me tell you why.
    Every year, my mom displays all of the Christmas cards we receive on a board in our kitchen. They’re lovely and uplifting and full of magical holiday spirit, but most of them have the plural of the sender’s last name wrong — front and center. God save the queen.
    Don’t use an apostrophe, stick to adding ‘s’ or ‘es’ — Merry Christmas from the Gillettes! NOT Merry Christmas from the Gillette’s!
    If your last name ends in s, z, ch, or sh, add ‘es.’ — Seasons Greetings from the Joneses! More

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    The Self-Care Ritual My Therapist Recommended for Reducing Anxiety

    When I started seeing my therapist a year ago, I was mostly looking for someone to listen to me and tell me how to fix my problems. What else is therapy for? After a few sessions, I learned that therapists are for more than listening, and mine loves to pull me out of my comfort zone and make me feel emotions I usually avoid—like anxiety. 
    If you’ve ever experienced overwhelming worry or stress, you’ll know the lengths one can go through to just push through, “be productive,” and figure everything out so you don’t have to sit with the emotion of anxiousness. Then, once I get everything done, I’ll self-soothe, maybe with my Equilibria Daily Drops CBD or a day of doing nothing at all. But the damage is already done, and I enter a cycle of feeling anxious all over again.
    The one thing I was missing was self-compassion—something we always give to others but rarely to ourselves. Self-compassion means forgiving yourself, giving yourself grace, and accepting yourself. When you feel anxious, address that it’s normal to feel anxious and continue to love yourself—that’s self-compassion. One of the most important aspects of self-compassion for me has been distraction. I don’t mean avoiding whatever negative emotion I’m feeling altogether—I distract myself until I’m ready to come back to the emotion with a level head.
    Since I started distracting myself when I feel a negative emotion coming on—grief, overwhelm, sadness, loneliness, stress, disappointment, you name it—I actually feel like I’m able to deal with them, once and for all. One of the biggest additions to my routine has been incorporating my CBD regimen from Equilibria in a more intentional way. Instead of just taking my CBD and hoping for the best, I started using my favorite products in conjunction with the rest of my anti-anxiety routine, and it’s finally made me feel at ease. 
    If you also want to try Equilibria’s CBD in your self-care routine, use code “theeverygirl” at checkout for 15% off your order! Plus, through September 30, Equilibria is offering a first-of-its-kind deal: new and existing customers who’ve never subscribed before can get 20% off their first, second, and third months of an Equilibria subscription! Just use code “theeverygirlfall20” at checkout. 

    How I Show Myself Compassion:

    1. Taking baths
    Most of my life, I never had a bathtub, so when I moved into my apartment, I took bath time very seriously. I’d put on a dreamy show, scroll on my phone, put on a face mask—and then I’d wonder why I didn’t feel relaxed when I got out. Now, I use baths as a time to actually unwind by leaving my phone and computer and instead reading a book. I also started adding Equilibria’s Mindful Mineral Soak, which utilizes full-spectrum CBD for a calming bath ritual from the start.
    I take baths in the morning and at night, and I tailor them depending on the time. I love using the Equilibria bath soak at night because it really helps me sleep, whereas in the morning, I rely on Equilibria’s Bath Bombs that make the bath smell invigorating and energizing.

    Equilibria
    Bath Bombs
    Use code “theeverygirl” at checkout for 15% off your order!

    2. Giving myself breaks throughout the day
    When I push through my work to get as much done as humanly possible, I end the day feeling like I absolutely need a nap because I’m so exhausted, regardless of how much coffee my system endured earlier in the day. My therapist actually recommended I start giving myself scheduled breaks throughout the day to step away from my computer and re-energize.
    I started incorporating the Equilibria Daily Gummies into breaks at my desk as a way to re-center when I’m experiencing a lot of overwhelm or worry, and they’re a great way to take a short break. I’ll take one and move to a different spot in my apartment or go for a walk. When I can feel myself wanting a Daily Gummy, I know that I’m in need of a quick break. 

    Equilibria
    Daily Gummies
    Use code “theeverygirl” at checkout for 15% off your order!

    3. Nighttime body gua sha
    I embarked on a fitness journey this year, and as much as it’s improved my physical and mental health, I experience sore muscles quite a bit more than I ever have. This turned me to body gua sha, which I use with my Daily Treatment Oil from Equilibria (or the Relief Balm on really sore days). What I didn’t know was how much body gua sha would become a self-care ritual for me, even when I don’t have soreness. The CBD oil is so relaxing and soothing on my skin, and the gua sha forces me to take a break to show love to myself for 10-15 minutes every day.
    I usually gua sha before bed, so I keep it on my nightstand with my other essentials like a book and lip balm. It’s become a non-negotiable in my nighttime routine, right along with my face wash and retinol.

    4. Cherishing my morning routine
    I have a habit of waking up in the morning and getting straight to work or heading straight to the gym, not giving myself any time to wake up. I thrust myself into the day and then later wonder why I feel so drained at the end of the workday, which always leads me to feeling anxious. Instead, I have started to give myself an hour before I start working or leave the house. I’ll make a cup of coffee and actually enjoy it while reading a book or catch up on my favorite show.
    Putting too much focus on being productive turns everything I love—like exercise or making myself a good breakfast—into a chore. I wrote down my priorities in a morning routine (exercise, drinking a cup of coffee or tea, getting ready for the day, journaling), and I make sure I get to do those things as much as possible before I start my workday. My anxiety about getting everything done is lessened when I already feel like I’ve established my priorities for the day.

    7 Easy Hacks to De-Stress Throughout the Work Day

    This post is sponsored by Equilibria, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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    This Walking Workout Is Taking Over the Internet—But Is It Worth the Hype?

    I’ll be honest: Even as a wellness editor, I’m not huge on TikTok wellness trends (except for these). But when it comes to the “12-3-30” workout routine that has taken social media by storm, my coworkers had so much to say, and I was curious, nay, flabbergasted. A treadmill workout? For only 30 minutes? Getting insane results? I had to know more.
    “I do 12-3-30 as needed when I want a really good workout but also want to be watching Netflix while I’m doing it,” Beth said. “I hate running, so I was pleasantly surprised at how I felt during and after 12-3-30,” Andi agreed. “I’m breaking a sweat without the high intensity that comes from running.” Color me intrigued. After doing my research, I found that The Everygirl editors aren’t the only fans of the exercise routine. Read on for my deep dive into the increasingly popular 12-3-30 treadmill workout and whether or not it’s the worth the hype. 

    What is it?
    While the combination of numbers might seem intimidating, the name is all you need to know to do the workout: Set the treadmill to an incline of 12 and a speed of 3 miles per hour, and then walk for 30 minutes. Yep, that’s it. So why this combo and where did it come from? Social media influencer Lauren Giraldo first shared the routine on YouTube in 2019, but it went viral when she posted it on TikTok a year later. “I’m not a runner, and running on the treadmill was not working for me,” Giraldo told The TODAY show. “I started playing around with the settings, and at the time, my gym’s treadmill had 12 incline as the max. The three miles per hour felt right, like walking, and my grandma had always told me that 30 minutes of exercise a day was all you needed. That’s how the combination started.”

    @laurengiraldoGame changer honestly♬ original sound – Lauren Giraldo

    Is it worth the hype?
    While Giraldo thanks the routine for her 30-pound weight loss, many other people love it for a variety of benefits and results (just Google the workout and you’ll see pages of TikToks, YouTube videos, and blog posts alike singing its praises). So what’s the deal? Since the workout centers on walking, you can already count it as a great low-impact option for keeping you healthy. According to Mayo Clinic, daily walking may help your general physical health because it can improve cardiovascular fitness, assist in maintaining a healthy weight, and strengthen your bones, muscles, and endurance. Regular walking has numerous mental health benefits as well, from improved energy to stress relief. 
    So if you’re wondering if walking is enough to get in a good workout, the answer is undoubtedly yes (no incline or treadmill required). The 12-3-30 workout takes your daily walk up a notch by adding an intense amount of incline for added benefits (think of it like walking up a very steep hill for 30 minutes straight). Since there’s more gravity resistance, your muscles (particularly glutes and hamstrings) are working harder than when you’re on a flat surface. However, the most notable difference is that your heart works harder when walking on incline, so the low-impact workout fits in cardio without the high intensity or strain that often comes with running. 

    The verdict:
    Undoubtedly, the 12-3-30 routine is a great workout that many people love and feel great doing. What I believe makes 12-3-30 more enticing than other workouts that reap the same benefits is that people who feel intimidated by running or have no idea what to do on the treadmill can easily start, break a sweat, and get in a good workout, all within the time it takes to finish an episode of New Girl.
    When you don’t feel like exercising, it’s easy to talk yourself into a 30-minute walk over an intense run, but the incline ensures that you’re fitting in a good burn and some cardio for those who are looking for a challenge. It’s a lower-impact, less intimidating, and friendlier version of those workouts that seem scary or challenging to most of us. In other words, #fitspo is no longer for the girls who spend two hours a day exercising, love to run for miles, or know exactly what to do at the gym. The 12-3-30 routine is really just proof that anyone can break a sweat and feel their best, even if all they have is 30 minutes and a TikTok account. 

    Interested in trying for yourself?
    What I personally loved about trying the 12-3-30 routine is that it is incredibly straightforward. You don’t need an app, fancy equipment, or to keep track of time (like interval training). So to try it for yourself, you know what to do: Hop on that treadmill, crank up your favorite playlist (or play Netflix, à la Beth), set the incline to 12, and get walking for 30 minutes. However, there are some things to keep in mind before trying.
    Just like any new workout or wellness routine, it’s important to check with your doctor or trainer. Incline at level 12 is no joke, and you could strain your lower back, hamstrings, or calves if you don’t have proper form or don’t warm up your body properly ahead of time. Don’t dive immediately into 12-3-30. Instead, try an incline at a three to six range and see how long you can comfortably walk. From there, slowly build up until you can walk at a 12 incline without strain. 
    If you can walk at 12 incline for 30 minutes with proper form and feel the good burn (muscle burn, working the cardiovascular system, etc.) without the bad (joints hurting or negative muscle strain), it can be a great practice to add to your workout routine. However, it should not be your only workout routine. 30 minutes of walking outdoors can also reap a wide range of benefits like stabilization when walking on uneven terrain or the health benefits that come from getting outside. Plus, you should be working multiple muscle groups and fitting in a variety of workouts to be your healthiest self. Talk to your doctor, try it out for yourself, and add it into your routine if it feels good for you. 

    The 4-Minute Workout That Could Completely Transform Your Health More

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    15 Non-Toxic Wellness Products To Score From Target (That Are All Under $30)

    As a wellness editor, it probably comes as absolutely no surprise to anyone that I live for wellness products. Supplements, essential oils, non-toxic skincare—you name it, I’ve tried it. But shopping for wellness products is different from shopping for a foundation or pair of jeans: A lot more goes into it than finding the right size or shade. The world of supplements can be totally confusing—”all-natural” doesn’t always mean healthy, and everything from essential oils to SPF can get expensive AF. What’s a girl to do? The answer: Head to Target.
    That’s right, the store you go to “just for fun” on Sundays is not only good for wardrobe basics or home decor items you definitely don’t need (but always talk yourself into buying). The aisles of Target are loaded with wellness hidden treasures, from sexual health items to skincare that’s actually healthy for your skin. And because it’s all from Target, you know it’s totally affordable too. I scoured the aisles so you don’t have to—shop 15 natural wellness products you’ve got to try, all under $30. 

    Dr. Bronner’s
    Pure-Castile Soap
    There are a few reasons why this basic soap has a very un-basic cult following. For one, it’s as clean as it gets, with 90 percent organic ingredients. But it’s also certified fair trade, comes in sustainable packaging, and has an amazing scent. It’s called 18-in-1 because you really can use it 18 ways (I checked). Try it for face/body wash, hand soap, house cleaner, or as a gentle soap for makeup brushes. Trust me, you’ll want to buy in bulk.

    Organic Cotton Tampons
    Let’s talk tampons for a sec. You’re literally inserting them into your body, so shouldn’t we care about how they’re made or what chemicals they contain instead of just how much they absorb? Expect better from your period products: This cotton is not only organic, but it also comes with a BPA-free applicator. If that’s not enough to convince you to switch, every purchase gives period products to girls who need them. Not a tampon fan? Check out Cora’s other amazing period products.

    Vital Proteins
    Collagen Beauty Greens Powder
    Most of you are probably already collagen stans, but for those who live under a rock or have yet to get on the collagen bandwagon, Target has you covered. This one is made with organic wheat grass and spinach, so you’re getting many antioxidants and benefits from greens as well as the collegen. As with any supplement, talk to your doctor before taking.

    Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum – SPF 35
    PSA: There are so many non-toxic SPF options that are better for you and the environment—there’s really no reason to stick to plain old chemical sunscreen. My personal favorite is this gem from Versed. Made with non-nano zinc oxide physical sunscreen, the formula offers protection from the sun without leaving a white tint or cast (even on deeper skin tones).

    The Honey Pot
    Feminine Wash
    Now onto vaginal care. Your vagina deserves (and needs) more TLC than just splashing your normal body wash down there. This wash is made with only clean, natural, and plant-based ingredients, so you know you’re giving your vagina only the best. It’s intended to keep pH levels healthy, prevent infection, hydrate the area, and relieve irritation.

    Charcoal Whitening Mouth Rinse
    Yes, there is such thing as non-toxic oral care, and yes, you should be using it. If you’re looking for whiter teeth but don’t want the price tag of in-office treatments or the toxins (and sensitivity!) from basic white strips, check out Moon. It uses activated charcoal to whiten and brighten instead of chemicals, and it contains 10 antioxidants and essential oils for fresher breath and oral health. Win, win, win!

    Body Oil
    On your next visit to pick up faux greenery or cheap wine, do yourself a favor and add this non-toxic oil to your cart. This genius product is meant for anywhere hair meets skin, meaning sensitive areas like pubic hair and under arms, but it can also be used on legs, face, or anywhere you grow hair. If you prefer hair removal, the oil is intended to keep skin hydrated and prevent ingrown hairs. If you like to grow it out, the oil keeps course hair soft. It’s not only clean and good for sensitive skin, but it’s also dermatologically and gynecologically tested, so you know you’re treating your body well.

    The Seaweed Bath Co.
    Firming Detox Body Cream
    Confession: I read somewhere that Kim Kardashian uses this lotion like seven years ago (way before KKW Beauty), so I obviously bought it and have not looked back since. All it takes to be a convert is to read the ingredients list (see: green coffee bean extract, green tea, hyaluronic acid). The superingredients work to deeply nourish the skin with antioxidants and help protect it from damage. I swear, you can feel the 65+ vitamins and minerals working within one use.

    Organic Warming Balm
    Since you can probably already tell that I’m a Cora fan, let’s talk about their Period Balm. The powerful essential oils help soothe period symptoms like cramping or bloating, and the formula has a warming effect that works to treat inflammation and ease tension overtime. Think of it as the 2021 version of the heating pad or hot water bottle your mom used to place on your stomach when you had cramps.

    Hero Cosmetics
    Mighty Patch Original Acne Patches
    If you have yet to hop on the pimple patch bandwagon, allow me to change your life. Basically, these little stickers stick onto a pimple or breakout and suck out all the gunk in six hours. Seriously. You’ll wake up and any zit will be gone (it’s like magic!). This one is cleaner than patches from other brands and is strong enough to stay on through a whole night (looking at you, restless sleepers).

    Foaming Shave Gel with Aloe Vera
    Full disclosure, I have opted for conditioner or body wash instead of shaving cream since I was 15 years old (I mean, does it really do anything?). That is, until I tried Flamingo. This clean shave gel is so creamy and moisturizing, it is now a staple in my shower. You’d be a fan from the scent alone.

    Pure Epsom Bath Salt Soaking Solution
    Every good wellness enthusiast has a bag of Epsom salt on hand. I like this one because it’s cheap, large (basically the Costco of bath salts), and only contains one ingredient: magnesium sulfate (AKA Epsom salt). The magnesium soaks into skin to help relieve muscle pain, tension in the body, and overall inflammation (my doctor recommended I try Epsom salt baths for help with anxiety!).

    Black Girl Sunscreen
    Make It Matte Sunscreen – SPF 45
    One of our go-to sunscreen brands of all time also happens to be paraben-free, vegan, and doesn’t contain any artificial fragrance (AKA chemicals that can irritate the skin but is found in many beauty products). This one contains shea butter and coconut oil, so you’re getting in some major hydration while protecting your gorgeous glow.

    Blackberry & Green Tea Deodorant
    IDK who needs to hear this, but there might be a lot of sh*t in your deodorant. Do your research and talk to your doctor about recs that are right for you. But if you’re ready to switch to a cleaner kind, I suggest Native’s aluminum-free and paraben-free option. Sure, we love it for the long-lasting protection against odor and all the reasons to love (and need) deodorant, but we’re partial to Native because of the amazing scents. With hints of jasmine, cucumber, or citrus, you’ll subtly smell like you just came from a spa.

    The Honest Company
    Hand Sanitizer Spray
    Who could’ve guessed a couple of years ago that hand sanitizer would be the #1 wellness must-have? Since 2020, I’ve kept a hand sanitizer in every purse I carry and use before every meal or after touching a public door handle (obsessive or smart, IDK). However, if you’re using hand sanitizer more (good job!), it could be drying out your hands. This one is just as effective (kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria) but doesn’t contain methanol (one of the main ingredients that leaves hands feeling dry) and contains aloe to help soothe and moisturize skin while you protect yourself from germs.

    The Clean Beauty Brands You Should Know About More

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    Still Working From Home? Here’s How to Make Your Daily Routine Feel Fresh Again

    Last week, for the first time ever, I talked about working from home like the end-all rather than as a temporary thing. And I even opted to work from home instead of going into the office when I had the choice. After 18 months of manifesting going back to the office, I’m finally at a place where I can accept and appreciate some of the luxuries of working from my living room (and the bedroom, kitchen, and occasionally bathroom). But that doesn’t mean I’m not getting a little sick of sitting in the same spot all day every day. My work routine is in desperate need of a refresh.
    Working from home, a once novel idea that then became temporary and is now what most of us consider normal, isn’t the same crux it once was, but it still comes with some questions, namely: How do I feel inspired when I’m stuck in the same place all the time? I started implementing a few tricks to keep me motivated and make my routine feel fresh again, and they’ve made a major difference in my productivity.

    1. Try blue light glasses
    One of the biggest hurdles I faced when I started working from home was figuring out how to stay productive. When my phone, the TV, and the kitchen are right there, I’m keen to get distracted. I tried afternoon walks, more coffee, and putting my phone in the other room, but nothing worked. Then, I got down to business and really focused on adding function to my routine, and WearMePro’s blue light glasses have made a huge difference in making me feel productive and actually be better at work.
    Blue light glasses are designed to protect your eyes from the continued exposure to the blue light we get from our phones, computers, and TV—which we’re all getting tons of if we’re sitting at a computer doing work all day. If you notice sitting in front of a screen for a long time gives you headaches, strains your eyes, or makes it hard to fall (and stay) asleep, blue light glasses help improve all of that. I tried a pair from WearMePro—a small, independent, family-owned business based in Arizona—last year, and it made the biggest difference in my productivity.
    With the glasses, I’m able to look at my computer screen for a while without getting headaches, and I end the day with my eyes feeling so much better and less strained. But overall, the act of putting my glasses on just makes me feel ready for the day, the same way I feel after putting on a button-down or making a cup of coffee.
    The best part: WearMePro’s glasses look super cute in all your video calls without costing you a pretty penny. All products are under $35, a pretty decent price that’ll make getting through the workday a bit easier. Plus, a portion of every eyewear purchase goes back to the Arizona Humane Society to help animals in need, so you get some while you give some—something I love.

    2. Change up your beverage
    If you typically drink the same iced coffee with almond milk every single day, varying your morning coffee order or making something else every now and then might be the extra flavor your day craved (no pun intended). I notice that drinking too much coffee is not the best for my body, so I started drinking alternatives like matcha and using add-ins that made me experience the ritual of coffee without the adverse effects. We all know the big change we feel when doing the annual switch from iced to hot drinks or when we can finally get our favorite seasonal flavors—imagine what that might do for your productivity if you feel that all the time?

    3. Schedule out your morning routine
    Instead of jamming your morning routine into those few precious hours you have before signing onto work, schedule them throughout your day. The one luxury of working remotely is flexibility. Maybe you do a lunch break workout and get ready in the afternoon before your calls rather than at 7 a.m. when you’re groggy and unmotivated. You could do your journaling in the afternoon to take a quick break from the computer screen. I always leave the chores I would normally do first thing (usually washing and putting away dishes) for a break in between signing on for work and lunch to give myself a quick moment to listen to a podcast and recharge.

    4. Decorate your desk
    I used to live in a very small studio that only allowed for one desk, so it became a vanity/desk/dining table/buffet hybrid that really just became a catch-all for every single thing I owned. When I moved, I finally had a desk of my own to do work from—and then I really just started using that as a catch-all for everything I owned. Once I finally organized it and made its place as My DeskTM, I noticed my productivity skyrocketed. I finally had a dedicated place for everything—including things that would help me be more creative—and I was able to make the space my own.
    I added a lamp to use when it starts getting dark out at 4 p.m, inspiring photos of my favorite magazine layouts, lots of notebooks to write down ideas, and obviously my blue light glasses. Now, I don’t do anything at my desk but work, but even if I was still living with the makeshift vanity/desk/buffet situation, I’d definitely make it feel like a proper workspace while I’m working. When I wake up in the morning, my makeup brushes come down and in go pencils and pens.

    5. Schedule weeknight events
    Remember when we used to go to happy hours and events and have things to do after work other than catch up on the latest episode of your favorite Real Housewives franchise? There’s something in the air when you know you have plans or somewhere to be after work that inspires you to work a little harder, have a little more creativity, and not stay on your computer all night working. Whether it’s a get-together with friends, watching a new movie, a video chat with your family, a walk through the park (Sex and the City style), or a date out with yourself, having something to look forward to after a long day of work breaks up the monotony of your day and entire week.

    5 After-Work Routines That Will Make You Better at Your Job

    7 Easy Hacks to De-Stress Throughout the Work Day

    This post is sponsored by WearMePro, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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    Bored of Your Wellness Routine? Here Are 8 TikTok Wellness Trends You Can Try at Home

    Another day, another TikTok trend. I have a love-hate relationship with this app because it introduced me to feta pasta and pancake cereal, but I can also waste hours of my life scrolling through the explore page without even realizing any time has passed (I used to have hobbies!). Love it or hate it, there is some good that TikTok has brought to my life: updates to my wellness routine. If you are bored of your workout schedule, need new go-to recipes, or are just looking for some overall updates, the secret might just be the app that brought us the Renegade dance and whipped coffee. Bring out your main character energy and try one of these eight wellness trends from TikTok. 

    1. 12-3-30 Workout

    @laurengiraldoGame changer honestly♬ original sound – Lauren Giraldo

    This workout method that went viral might just be your new go-to. Originally shared by influencer Lauren Giraldo, the “12-3-30” workout is as straightforward as it sounds: Set your treadmill to 12 percent incline and three miles per hour, and then walk for 30 minutes. As for why the method went so viral? TikTokers swear by it for a number of reasons, from being sustainable to helping them tone up. Especially if running feels intimidating or you don’t have more than half an hour to fit in a workout, you might want to hop on your treadmill and see what all the buzz is about. 

    2. Liquid Chlorophyll

    @sakaralifeA must try springtime detoxing refresher ##sakaralife ##chlorophyll ##chlorophyllwater ##fyp ##plantbased♬ LoFi(860862) – skollbeats

    Let me flex for a second and say that I’ve been a chlorophyll stan way before TikTok was a thing. Personally, I notice a huge difference in my skin and energy levels when adding drops of the green stuff into my water. Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants, and liquid chlorophyll is a supplement you can take to get the antioxidants and nutrients from plant chlorophyll. For more information on chlorophyll, click here, and always talk to your doctor before adding a supplement to your routine. 

    3. Cloud Bread

    @linqanaaa1 YEAR! ##foryoupage ##fypシ ##fyp ##itsanaaa ##myroutine ##foodietiktok ##cloudbread ##anniversary ##foodtrauma ##eggwhites ##nothinggoestowaste ##celebrating♬ Morning After – LLusion

    I could watch TikToks of cloud bread all day long (and I seriously mean all day long). The DIY bread that’s made out of only egg whites and corn starch (and whatever other additives you want to adjust the flavor) is taking the internet by storm. Not only is it easy to make and falls under popular diets like paleo or keto, but it is also insanely satisfying to watch the egg whites get so freaking fluffy. Nutritionists and food-tokers have even been turning cloud bread into pizza by topping it with sauce and cheese or making DIY cupcakes by adding sugar to the batter. 

    4. Push-Up Challenge

    @kev.the.nexusReposting one of my most viral videos! 😊 ##fitness ##kevthenexus ##foryou ##duet ##viral ##fyp ##plankchallenge ##workoutchallenge ##pushups♬ original sound – ᴀʟᴇx ʀᴀɢᴇ🐲

    Leave it to social media to turn the exercise series you did in P.E. class into a full-blown viral challenge. Even Carrie Underwood tried it—and nailed it—so you know it’s good. Started by fitness trainer Kevin Edmonson, the challenge is basically following his moves (including push-ups, planks, and arm reaches) to the music and fitting in every push-up by the end of the song clip. If your workout routine is starting to feel mundane, millions of viewers and a killer song might be enough motivation to push yourself. 

    5. Nature’s Cereal

    @natures_foodnature’s cereal ##fruit ##fruits ##share♬ original sound – 🥭Fruits & Leaves🍃

    I love a fruit bowl as much as the next girl, but I never thought I’d go so far as to call a bowl of berries and pomegranate seeds with coconut water “cereal” (I love my Cheerios, OK). The trend started when a health blogger and content creator called his fruit bowl “nature’s cereal,” but the trend blew up when our queen Lizzo tried it for herself (and admitted she was addicted). Consider this trend wellness editor-approved because topping fruit with coconut water has become a go-to of mine (but TBH, I’d do anything to be more like Lizzo). 

    6. Salad Jars

    @sweetpeasandsaffronSo here’s the deal with jar salads… 🥗 ##jarsalad ##mealprep ##lunchtime ##foodtiktok ##healthyrecipes ##saladtok ##foodtok♬ Say So (Instrumental Version) [Originally Performed by Doja Cat] – Elliot Van Coup

    Watch your back, bowls: Salads have found a new home, and it’s way more attractive, convenient, and useful. Layering your salad ingredients in mason jars is trending, and it’s not just because it’s so Instagram-worthy. If you’re packing your lunch or prepping salads ahead of time, mason jars just make sense. Think about it: You can put wet ingredients on the bottom, and dry ingredients (like lettuce) on the top so they don’t get soggy. When you’re ready to eat, simply add dressing and shake. You’ll have a perfectly crisp salad—with evenly distributed dressing—every time. 

    7. Hot Girl Walk

    @cearakirkmy take on the ##hotgirlwalk! (Originally by hot girl @exactlyliketheothergirls but my spin on it 🤓) ##hotgirlsummer ##walk♬ Juless Edits – Shou

    Megan Thee Stallion coined the term “Hot Girl Summer” in 2019, and in 2021, we have ourselves the “Hot Girl Walk.” Spoiler alert: It has absolutely nothing to do with what you look like and everything to do with confidence. The idea is basically to add four-mile walks into your routine to not only get some exercise and fresh air but also to work on your confidence. Many fans even call it a manifestation practice. For the entirety of the walk, you’re supposed to think about three things: what you’re grateful for, how hot you are, and things that you want to achieve. Now that’s a walk I can get behind. 

    8. Becoming “That Girl”

    @.becomethat.girlbecome that girl with me. we start tomorrow. follow to join our journey. ##thatgirl ##fyp ##4u ##foryoupage ##follow ##like ##aesthetic ##monday.♬ Seaside_demo by SEB – SEB

    I have a love-hate relationship with TikTok, and I also have a love-hate relationship with the “Becoming ‘That Girl’” trend. You might have heard sound bites saying “this is your sign to become that girl” or seen a series of clips showing a glow-up to “that girl.” So who is “that girl” and why is TikTok obsessed with her? While many “Becoming That Girl” TikToks portray waking up early, going to the gym, drinking green smoothies, and meditating, I think “that girl” is really just the best version of ourselves, whatever that looks like. While many TikToks portray a certain type of “girl,” try this trend by becoming the best version of you, no matter when you wake up, what you eat, or how you take care of your mental health. Identify what makes you happiest in life and then practice those things every day. And if you happen to record the process for a 30-second TikTok that goes viral? It’ll be an added bonus. 

    10 Things I Learned on TikTok That Changed My Life More

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    Try This Instead: 10 Ways to Be More Confident at Work

    We’ve all been there: Maybe you’ve been asked to take charge of party planning for your coworker’s birthdays or go on a coffee run (even if you said goodbye to the “intern” title years ago). Or perhaps one of your colleagues keeps talking over you in meetings (been there, done that!). You know you should be strong and confident, but maybe you aren’t sure where to start when it comes to empowerment in your career. 
    We know what it’s like to feel undermined in the workplace, and we’re here to help you feel like your best self at work. We partnered with our bubbly of choice, La Marca Prosecco, to help you overcome challenges and feel confident in your career. La Marca Prosecco believes in celebrating the joy in everyday moments, including all the work that so many women go through to make their dreams come true. We are proud to partner with them to bring you advice on how to overcome challenges and feel confident in your career. 
    With everything from imposter syndrome to dismissive bosses, it might be hard to feel like the powerful badass that you are at the office. La Marca Prosecco is the perfect accompaniment to celebrate the boss that you already are and how bright your future career can be. Grab your La Marca mini and read on for 10 behaviors to be aware of in order to be your strongest self at work.

    1. Instead of apologizing, share your perspectives with confidence. 
    Admit it: You’ve responded to an email or sat in a meeting and said something along the lines of, “I’m sorry, but I disagree because…” You felt compelled to share your point of view, but you didn’t want to hurt your colleagues’ feelings in doing so.
    You don’t have to agree with everyone else in the room or on the project, and you certainly don’t have to feel sorry for feeling differently. Your view is essential and additive, and you can meaningfully contribute to the conversation without worrying about how others might respond to your opinion. Instead of apologizing before stating your truth, try saying, “Let’s talk about this through a different lens.” This approach welcomes varying perspectives without the unnecessary apology.

    2. Rather than be the designated notetaker in every meeting, help empower others to do the job.
    Somebody has to be responsible for taking notes in meetings, but it shouldn’t always be you unless your job description clearly states that responsibility. There’s an assumption that women are more equipped or “better at” these types of tasks and duties, so they often fall into our laps without our permission. 
    If you’re always the assigned note-taker, consider recommending that this responsibility gets divided amongst meeting attendees or alternates. And if you still find that colleagues call on you because you “do it best,” offer to show them your note-taking strategies and say, “I’d be happy to teach you the strategies I use while taking notes so you can try them during our next meeting.” 

    3. Finish your thoughts and don’t hesitate to call out interrupters.
    Raise your hand if you’ve ever been interrupted or talked over during a meeting or presentation (We’re all raising our hands, right?). Interruptions are disheartening and happen to the best of us. It’s best to nip this behavior in the bud right away to eliminate the precedent that you will accept it in the future.
    You can shut down interruptions through a variety of tactics. In one-off situations, try continuing to talk or raising your hand to finish your thoughts. If you’re dealing with a repeat offender, address the behavior with specific instances of interruption in a private setting and talk it out. 

    4. Don’t feel pressured to say “Yes!” to everything.
    There’s a difference between being a helpful team player and being taken advantage of at work. Women in the workplace tend to take on tasks such as planning for birthdays, cleaning up the kitchen, ordering lunch for a group, sending out meeting invites, and more. While you might think volunteering to do the “stuff no one else wants to do” is going to make you more likable, you might be unintentionally undermining your value. 
    If you turn down tasks every once in a while, does that mean you’re not helpful? Absolutely not. If you get asked to do one of these tasks, offer a group of team members the rundown on how you’ve made it successful previously, and then hand it off for good. You can say something along the lines of, “While I’ve volunteered for these tasks previously, my bandwidth is currently full, but I’m happy to onboard someone else to the task.”

    5. Don’t minimize your accomplishments—celebrate them!
    Look, there’s a difference between bragging and owning your successes. Women are known for downplaying their work and not giving themselves enough credit. Imposter syndrome brings about feelings of unwarranted self-promotion, but advocating for yourself and promoting your achievements aren’t bad things.
    Take getting a promotion or landing a new role, for example. We say things like “I got promoted, but it’s no big deal!” instead of sharing these achievements with honor. Next time you catch yourself getting ready to downplay your success, try to focus on sharing the update paired with feelings of excitement: “I got promoted, and I’m excited about this new opportunity!” Celebrate your success so others will celebrate you, too. La Marca minis are what we keep on hand to celebrate successes big and small. You deserve it!

    6. You’re worth every penny, so don’t work for less money than you deserve.
    We could spend all day talking about the gender pay gap and the history behind women getting underpaid in the workplace. While we continue to make progress towards equality, the reality is that compared to men, women are underpaid, and there are more significant wage gaps for Women of Color. Accepting unfair pay sends the message that your employer can get away with taking advantage of you.
    All that’s to say that you don’t deserve to feel undervalued and receive less pay than what you’re worth. If you’re doing more work than your job description requires of you, ask for a raise. If you’re preparing to accept a job offer, consider negotiating your salary.

    7. Communicate up rather than venting sideways.
    We all have issues that come up at work. The truth is that no matter what the office environment is, miscommunications and misunderstandings are unavoidable. What matters is how you address them to remain as professional as possible in the workplace. 
    If an issue arises at work, communicate up and have a healthy conversation with your manager about what’s going on rather than venting sideways. Your manager is there to help you and can support you in these situations. While venting to a colleague might help temporarily, sharing what’s going on with your manager can help build a strong relationship built on trust and can yield a long-term solution. 

    8. Uplevel your emails by removing modifiers like “just” and “actually.”
    The way we communicate verbally and in written communication is powerful, and adding modifiers can make you seem less competent and confident. The words “just” and “actually” are often unnecessary and can easily be eliminated for a stronger message. 
    Instead of saying, “I just wanted to follow up on this!” say, “I am following up on this…” Rather than saying, “I actually have one more question,” say, “I have a question.” Practice reviewing your emails before you send them and removing these modifiers until you get in the habit of not including them.

    9. Don’t worry that you aren’t making sense.
    Have you ever spoken up during a meeting and shared your perspective thoughtfully and thoroughly, only to wrap up with a “Does that make sense?” at the end? I used to do this all the time. It can feel almost natural to close a point this way, but when you do, you imply that what you just shared makes no sense or that your audience is incapable, making you sound condescending. 
    Try avoiding this phrase and replace it with something along the lines of, “I look forward to hearing others’ thoughts on this” or “I’m happy to answer any questions or provide clarity.” 

    10. Your ideas aren’t silly or “out there,” so be proud to share them.  
    Your ideas are not silly, and you shouldn’t lead in with a preface that discredits what you’re about to share. Whether your imposter syndrome is getting the best of you or you fear judgment and rejection, you need to leave the phrase “this might seem silly, but…” in the past. 
    Look, if you don’t believe in your ideas and present them confidently, how do you expect others to believe in them? Sure, sometimes we all come up with ideas that might seem like a stretch, but there’s no need to say it out loud. Next time, jump straight into sharing your concept without any preface and ask for feedback after sharing it. 

    La Marca Prosecco is an elegant sparkling wine grown in the heart of Italy’s Prosecco region. La Marca Prosecco believes in celebrating the joy in everyday moments, including all the work that so many women go through to make their dreams come true. A focus on career empowerment has always been part of The Everygirl’s mission, and our partnership with La Marca Prosecco has helped us take that mission into the real world with live and virtual events, small business grants, and more. Let’s raise a glass to that!

    This post is sponsored by La Marca Prosecco but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl Media Group editorial board. More

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    9 Things All Successful Women Do On Sunday

    We’ve all fallen victim to a bad case of the Sunday Scaries. You know what I’m talking about: those days where all you can do is lay in bed and binge an entire Netflix series, feeling sad that the weekend is over and worried about the stressors that Monday will bring. But news flash: the weekend is not over, and how you spend your Sundays can ease a lot of those Monday stressors. In fact, the most successful women know their Sunday routine can make or break their entire week. Read on for eight Sunday rituals that successful women never skip. 

    1. Clean your home
    You might not think you’re a neat freak, but trust me when I say that you will sleep better with the shower cleaned and the dishes put away. Plus, your week will feel so much more manageable when some of those chores you put off (looking at you, pile of dirty laundry) are already taken care of. Clutter in your home leads to clutter in the mind, so a one-hour deep clean or a quick closet reorganization can make a huge difference in not only your home environment, but how you feel for the rest of the week. If those major chores (like organizing the junk drawer) feel overwhelming, start with a quick clean-up of the kitchen (doing dishes and wiping up counters), tidy up the living room (fold throw blankets and stack coasters), and declutter your bedroom (that means putting away the clothes on your “worn-but-not-yet-ready-for-laundry chair–I know you have one!).

    2. Map out the week
    If your go-to for coping with Sunday Scaries is to completely ignore the fact that work starts again tomorrow, this one is for you. You may think that not acknowledging your to-do list is the best way to deal, but even if hours of Netflix helps you “forget,” you still know Monday morning is coming, leaving you with dread, anxiety, and a whole lot of stress at 9 a.m. the next day. The ideal way to set up your week for success and feel a lot better when Monday morning comes along is to plan out the week in advance. Review your upcoming schedule, add in time to prepare for big meetings or presentations, and include time for when you’ll actually get those things on your to-do list checked off. You’ll feel much more in control and will be better prepared throughout the week. 

    3. Prep your meals and wardrobe
    Speaking of being prepared, another way to help you feel in control of the week ahead is to meal prep and plan out your outfits. We make a lot of decisions every single day, even just within the first few minutes of waking up: whether or not to hit snooze, when to turn on the coffee pot, what to make for breakfast, and what to wear (which is approximately 1000 different decisions). No wonder we all feel exhausted or overwhelmed when we’re required to make decision after decision throughout the work day itself. No matter how big or small, decisions add up–decision fatigue is real.
    But good news: you can spend your Sundays to limit your decision making throughout the week. Prep your meals in advance (whether that looks like actually chopping veggies and making easy dishes, or just writing out a plan and making a grocery list) and plan out outfits (including which shoes you’ll pack to transition into happy hour on Thursday). You’ll limit some of the decision fatigue throughout the week so you can spend more time on those really important decisions, but you also might find yourself excited for those meals or that power outfit, instead of dreading the week ahead. 

    4. Set goals
    Yes, Sundays are not just for self-care or laziness; they can also be for goal-setting. Think about what specific, attainable things you want to accomplish by next week, and how they relate to your bigger goals. For example, if you’ve always wanted to learn piano, add in a goal to practice for a total of two hours by next Sunday. If you wish you exercised more, set a goal to attend three workout classes at any point throughout the week, and then schedule in when they’re going to happen. If you want to be in a relationship, plan to go on one date this week, or if you’re dying for a promotion, set an intention to connect with your boss. No matter what your goals or intentions are, check in with what you want out of life setting them. You’ll feel more excited for your week, but will also feel like you’re making progress towards those huge life goals.

    5. Unplug
    PSA for whoever needs to hear it: you do not have to (and should not) be “plugged in” 24/7. If your weeks feel overwhelming and Sundays are scary, consider doing a temporary digital detox to reduce stress. When we’re constantly bombarded by Instagram, work emails, or even that never-ended group text, we can feel like we’re constantly missing out on something (I like to call it chronic FOMO). Turning off your phone for a few hours helps reduce that overwhelm and can allow you to actually relax. Try a full unplug and turn off all screens to read a book, take a walk with your dog, or do something creative, or just put your phone in the other room while you unwind with your favorite show for a couple hours. 

    6. Set Monday morning alarm for a few minutes earlier
    I get it: Monday mornings are a rude awakening. That 6 a.m. alarm is probably the last thing you want to hear, and you’re tempted to sleep in until the last second possible to savor the last of your weekend bliss. But hitting the snooze button can lead to a rushed morning so you feel stressed, overwhelmed, and behind before you even start your workday. Instead, set your alarm on Sunday night for 10-15 minutes earlier the next morning. Whether you spend the extra time meditating, indulging in a luxurious skincare routine, or just brewing a cup of coffee with a moment of silence, you will not miss the 10 minutes of extra sleep, and feel much more prepared for the workday and entire week ahead. 
     
    7. Read something 
    One of the best secrets of successful women? Reading. Many of us have a plethora of excuses when it comes to reading more often. “I’m too tired,” “I don’t have any new books,” and “How am I expected to do anything else in my free time when all six seasons of Sex and the City are on Hulu!?” are excuses I personally use on a regular basis. But reading is not only enjoyable; it’s good for you. Whether it’s winding down before bed, taking a break in the afternoon, or as a way to kick off your Sunday, fit in some time to read during the day to inspire you and help you feel motivated for the week ahead. As for what to read? Check out these inspiring books or books to educate yourself to help you grow in both your success and life goals. 

    8. Get your inbox to zero
    If your Monday mornings feel like a race against the clock starting the second you wake up, set your week up for success by getting ahead with your emails. While Sundays should feel like Sundays (rather than an extension of the workweek), spending just 10-20 minutes getting some work done will help you start your week already feeling ahead. If emails are a source of stress, tackle your inbox, or if scheduling feels like a tedious task on Monday mornings, plan out your meetings and deadlines the day before. Just think about how good your Monday morning will feel when your inbox is already at zero.

    9. Have a financial check-in
    Self-care doesn’t always mean bubble baths or face masks. Sometimes, self-care means being an independent adult and doing what you can to feel in control of your finances. While having a detailed financial plan and setting goals can help you reduce money-related stress and achieve what you want in life, feeling in control of your finances doesn’t always require a lot of time and energy. Spend fives minutes on Sunday to glance over your bank account and credit card statements. Getting in the habit of frequently checking in can help identify fraud early on and will also give you a good idea of where you’re spending and where you can be saving. Set a financial goal for the week, whether it’s to put a certain amount of cash into your savings account or invest in a course or service that will improve your wellbeing. 

    Got the Sunday Scaries? Try These 9 Things More