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      Desk Essentials That Will Help You Survive the Gloomiest Season of the Year

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      It’s dark out by 4:00, temperatures are plummeting, and we’re spending more time indoors—the gloomiest time of the year is officially here. This time can be challenging for everyone, but it can be especially difficult when you work from home. After all, when the workday’s done and it’s pitch-black and freezing outside, no one really wants to leave their house. And when you’re staring at the same four walls day in and day out, you’re more likely to go stir-crazy and feel the effects of SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
      That said, one of the easiest ways to combat this is to fill your space with items that make you feel excited and inspired. So, give your office a winter upgrade with these 20 desk essentials. These items will help you stay productive and survive the gloomiest time of the year without feeling like you’re losing your mind. Keep scrolling to learn more.

      Light Therapy Lamp
      The sun may only come out for a few hours each day (if at all), but this light therapy lamp can give you a little dose of sunshine right at your desk. If you find yourself tired, sluggish, or just not feeling it, turning on your light therapy lamp can give you the boost you’re looking for.

      The Everygirl x Day Designer
      30-Day Challenge Planner
      Life will test you sometimes, but our 30-Day Challenge Planner can help you set yourself up for success in spite of it all. With guided challenges pertaining to wellness, career, and more, even the gloomiest time of the year will be no match for you.

      Lulu’s Garden
      Love Rosé Garden
      Contrast the gloomy weather outside and infuse some brightness into your office with this adorable succulent plant box that’ll fit perfectly in the corner of your desk.

      Makeup by Mario
      MoistureGlow™ Plumping Lip Balm
      This multitasking lip balm is perfect for winter. With a formula designed to soothe, hydrate and plump, and a hint of dewy, glossy color, swipe on before your next Zoom meeting or throughout the day and take the world by storm.
      Available in 14 colors.

      Wireless Charging Stone
      If you’re on your phone a lot for work, then you need a good, reliable charger, and Einova has just the thing for you. This wireless charging stone is made with genuine Italian marble, so it looks chic AF, and charges your phone lightning-fast.
      Available in 7 colors.

      “Vacation” Eau de Toilette
      Dreaming of a tropical vacation? Same. If you can’t get away, bring the tropical vibes to you with Vacation’s signature scent: the smell of sunscreen and summer.

      Aroma Om® Cool Mist Diffuser
      Even the gloomiest of days will be no match for this cool mist diffuser. Fill with your favorite essential oil blend and bring natural, healing, and calming vibes into your space and breathe life back into your office once again.
      Available in white and grey.

      Pottery Barn
      Acrylic Memo Tablet with Pens
      Your to-do tasks, grocery lists, and words of affirmation have never looked so sleek. This customizable acrylic memo tablet will help you personalize your workspace and maximize productivity and creativity during the cold winter months.

      Snarky Pen Set
      This collection of pens comes personally recommended to you by our Chief of Sales, Ally. Sure, you can write with any old pen you have lying around, but if you’re looking to brighten your day, nothing will do that like a pen that reminds you just how badass you are.

      Smart Mug Warmer
      Whether you’re a coffee addict, tea drinker, or fan of hot water and lemon, this smart mug warmer will conveniently fit in the corner of your desk, keep your beverages hot, and warm you up from the inside out.

      Mark & Graham
      Lips Ceramic Catchall Tray
      Nothing’s more annoying than accidentally banging your jewelry on your desk. Preserve your pieces and place them in this adorable catchall tray while you’re working. The lip shape is feminine and stylish, and comes in blush and red.

      Project 62™
      Acrylic Round Desktop Organizer
      A cluttered desk when you’re already feeling trapped in one space isn’t going to do you any favors. Get organized with this round acrylic desktop organizer. With 4 compartments and a clear design, you won’t waste time picking out random objects until you find the right one, and will be able to fit everything you need inside.

      Finance Planner
      Take advantage of the cold weather and refresh your money mindset and work towards your financial goals with this planner. With money mentor articles, clarity pages, savings and debt reviews, and more, this planner will help you hold yourself accountable and keep track of your money moves and progress.
      Available in 3 colors.

      Amazon | Coolfor
      Electric Desktop Space Heater
      If you’re perpetually cold, you need this electric desktop space heater in your life. It’s tiny but mighty, and will have no trouble heating things up.
      Available in green and brown.

      Talking Out of Turn
      The Future Is Female Mug
      If you wake up feeling a bit “blah,” sip a hot beverage out of this empowering, motivational mug.

      Bright Ideas Mini Highlighters
      We’re all liable to become extra forgetful during this time of year, but with these mini highlighters you’ll be able to color-code important notes, tasks, and documents accordingly.

      Amazon | Ulefi
      Under-Desk Heated Slippers
      Getting warm and staying warm is practically impossible when your feet are cold, and I don’t know about you, but I have a hard time working when I’m freezing. Keep these heated slippers underneath your desk, and slip your feet in whenever you’re cold or want to feel warm, safe, and cozy.

      Mind & Body Reset Kit
      This kit comes with 3 roll-on essential oil blends that can revive, refresh, and renew. Whenever you’re feeling sluggish, uninspired, anxious or overwhelmed, roll on one of these blends to get yourself up and running again and get back to work.

      How To Survive Work During the Gloomiest Season of the Year More

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      How To Survive Work During the Gloomiest Season of the Year

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      Shorter days, a lack of sunlight, and freezing temperatures can easily kill off any and all productivity and passion, and getting through work during the gloomiest time of the year can feel like an insurmountable task. This is especially true for those struggling with seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—a type of depression related to changes in seasons. Typically SAD starts in the fall and continues throughout the winter before resolving on its own in the spring. However, that is a long time to be struggling at work when you’re trying to pay your bills and keep a roof over your head.
      So if you’ve been feeling a bit “blah” lately and lacking all work-related motivation, you’ve come to the right place. Thankfully, with the right tips and tricks, you can survive work during the gloomiest time of the year. Keep on reading to learn how.

      1. Take short breaks away from your desk
      Due to the lack of sun exposure and vitamin D and disruption to our internal body clocks, we all feel a bit more tired and sluggish during the winter. Unsurprisingly, this often correlates to less physical activity. This lack of movement, though, can only add to your lethargy and just make you feel a bit more “blah.” To counter this inactivity and refresh your mind, take short breaks away from your desk periodically throughout the day. Doing things like getting up and going for a quick walk, splashing cold water on your face, or finding a quiet space to do mindful meditation or deep breathing for a few minutes can be beneficial. Eating lunch away from your desk can also be helpful too.
      Taking short breaks away from your desk will help break things up, and the change of scenery can help your mind refocus and reset. This short burst of movement is also likely to reinvigorate you a little bit, which will give you a small amount of much-needed energy to continue making boss-chick moves. Plus, extra movement can help release endorphins, which can act as a natural antidepressant and relieve some stress and anxiety.

      2. Try conscious connected breathing
      Breathwork is one of the best mindfulness tools because it can be done anywhere—like at your desk or corner in your office. There are many different forms of breathwork out there, but breathwork practitioner, spiritual mentor, and CEO Alyse Bacine, swears by a technique called conscious connected breathing. “It’s the perfect way to shift your energy out of stagnation and depression related to SAD,” Bacine told me.
      With this technique, you lay down for 15-20 minutes in a quiet space and breathe in and out through your mouth in a circular pattern with no space between the inhale and exhale. “Set the intention that you’re going to shift your energy and journal about how you’re feeling or what you’re grateful for before or after,” Bacine said. “This will shift your energy into gratitude which is the highest frequency in the universe.”

      3. Set Boundaries
      It can be difficult to separate yourself from work, especially if you’re self-employed or work from home. Think about it: How often do you “log off” for the night only to check your email the second you hear a notification, lest you miss something from work? It’s natural to want to perform well at your job and keep your boss happy, but never turning off “work mode” can be draining. The truth is, everyone needs time to rest and recharge; without it, you’re more likely to get burnt out and your work performance will suffer.
      When it comes down to it, the best thing you can do for yourself is set boundaries. Maybe this means not responding to emails after a certain time or avoiding work-related discussions after hours. Whatever the case may be, setting boundaries will give you the opportunity to rest and renew, and you’ll go into the following work day sharper and on your game.

      4. Dress for Success
      There’s some truth to the old saying “dress for success.” During the winter, there’s a real temptation to bundle up in cozy, comfy clothing, and this is especially true if you spend the most of your time working from home. However, wearing ratty, old clothing around the clock is not going to make you feel good about yourself, which is why during working hours, make it a point to dress for success.
      Dressing for success doesn’t mean throwing on an expensive pantsuit (unless you want to, then by all means). Rather, it means wearing clothing that makes you feel good, like a chic loungewear set or cute top. Likewise, if dabbing on a bit of blush or applying a drop of mascara will help you feel better and more confident, then you should absolutely put some on for work. Taking the time to put on and wear things that make you feel your best will give you an energy boost and the confidence to kill it at work.

      5. Keep a mindfulness journal
      Keeping a mindfulness journal can help you recenter and ground yourself, relieve feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression, and remind you of how far you’ve come. It’s also a great way to cultivate self-awareness, increase gratitude, and uncover detrimental behavior and thought patterns. Regularly using a mindfulness journal will make you feel better equipped to handle the season because you’ll be more in touch with yourself and your emotions and help you get out of your own head and remove yourself from the cycle of overthinking.

      6. Upgrade Your Desk
      Having a desk you love will naturally make you feel more motivated and inspired, and if your setup currently leaves a lot to be desired, it might be time for an upgrade. Your upgrade doesn’t have to be anything big—it can be purchasing a new keyboard, desk lamp, plant, or simply reorganizing what you already do have. Having work tools you love is also going to make you more excited to work, and in turn, you’ll be more productive.

      7. Be 5% kinder
      I recently listened to an episode of Jay Shetty’s podcast that featured Khloé Kardashian. During the episode, Kardashian mentioned that being just 5% kinder can make the biggest difference in the world. This stuck with me because of its sheer simplicity and truth—it costs $0 to be kind, but for some reason, kindness is often hard to come by.
      Make a conscious effort to be 5% kinder to yourself and everyone else moving forward. Hold the door open for someone else, be gentle and compassionate with yourself and rest on days you’re struggling, patiently listen to a co-worker vent instead of rolling your eyes behind their back, or take your family member’s phone call instead of letting it go to voicemail. Little acts of kindness will make you feel good and radiate light and positivity out into the world during a time filled with so much gloom and doom. In turn, you’ll feel lighter, clearheaded, and more excited for work.
      In addition, be mindful of using social media because it can easily become a toxic place. Tristan Thibodeau is a brand strategist and CEO who encourages social media users to engage with forethought. “A lack of emotional intelligence can turn social media into an ugly place very quickly,” she divulged to me. “Part of you wants to have compassion for these people because they must be carrying so much negativity. But at the same time, it’s frustrating to watch them take zero responsibility for their emotions as they project their unhappiness onto innocent strangers online.” If you find that you’re logging off social media feeling worse than when you logged on because of toxicity or falling into the comparison trap, consider taking a break from it for a little bit. No amount of likes or comments is worth sacrificing your mental health.

      8. Take Care of Your Body
      This one probably seems like a no-brainer, but we so often put self-care on the back burner. Make it a point to eat foods that make you feel good and are good for you, get plenty of rest, and drink enough water. Take the time to check in with your body and see how you’re feeling. If there’s an area where you feel you’re lacking, figure out what you can do to nourish it. Taking care of yourself outside of the workplace will translate to taking care of business inside of it.
      That said, if you feel like you’re really struggling, it is never a bad idea to talk to your doctor. As a professional, they’ll be able to further guide you in the right direction and provide you with the necessary tools to overcome. Millions of Americans suffer from SAD every year, so try to remember that you’re not alone and there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. In truth, we all feel a bit gloomy during this time of year, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer alone. Don’t ever forget that you are a divine and deserving human being, and you have absolutely every right to be successful and happy.

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      The Big Career Goal You Should Tackle in 2023

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      It’s a brand new year, and with that comes a blank slate full of possibilities. Many people immediately think about setting resolutions to hit the gym more, revamp their dating life, or start saving for a big goal. These are all great goals to set, but one area you shouldn’t overlook when it comes to setting goals for the year is what you want to accomplish in your career. Often, career goals can seem intimidating because they can take a while to accomplish and require some deeper strategic thinking, but once you’ve set a big goal you can break it down into smaller goals that can be easier to accomplish month over month.
      Whether you’re brand new to the “real world” and are looking for your first opportunity or have been climbing the ranks for years, there’s almost certainly a new career goal you can add to your list for 2023. In no particular order, here are some goals I’ve set for my career in the past that you might want to consider!

      If you’re ready for a big change: Get hired at a great company 
      Whether you’ve recently graduated or have been working for a while and are feeling a pull towards a new role, the start of the new year can be just the motivation you need to shake things up and focus on getting hired at a great company. I say a great company and not just any company because we want to set the bar high and get exactly what we deserve in 2023! A great company can be different based on what you’re looking for, your industry, and your location, so this is totally subjective based on your wants and needs. 
      If getting a new role speaks to you, you can break it down into more actionable steps and then set deadlines for each step. Micro goals could look like researching companies that offer the compensation and career challenges you’re after, reaching out to connections at those companies, and practicing interview questions. If you start at the beginning of this year and have your target list of dream companies ready for the end of January, you can give yourself the rest of the year to build those connections and hopefully receive an offer by December.

      If you want to level up: Get promoted 
      Love your current company but feel ready to take on new challenges? The goal of getting promoted this year is for you. This is a great goal to set at the beginning of the year because it will give you lots of time to work on any areas you need to develop on your path to promotion. It also gives you time to research and work towards any certifications or courses that could help you jump to the next level. 
      Once you’ve set the goal to get promoted this year, be loud and proud about sharing your intentions at work. Set up a meeting with your manager or HR partner to chat about what a promotion timeline looks like for you. Coming out of that meeting, be sure to record any next steps or agreements made (pro tip: send an email to the relevant parties the next day to ensure you captured everything correctly and have a record of your convo). Then, take every opportunity to showcase the skills you need in order to get promoted, and schedule regular check-ins with your manager to ensure you’re on track.
      Remember to keep a “Wins List” of your accomplishments to have as proof of everything you’ve done that year in service of getting promoted. My personal Wins List always includes key presentations I gave, any initiatives I started above and beyond my job description, and big wins my team had (as well as how I specifically contributed to them). I also include important metrics to tangibly show how I added value over the past year. 

      If you’re a manager (or want to be): Build your leadership skills 
      Let’s say you’re happy with your company and are killing it within your role, but you know you’re not quite ready for a promotion yet (or maybe you recently got one, in which case, yay you!). If you fall into this camp, a goal you could consider is increasing your leadership skills. Leadership skills are important for almost every job as you grow your career, whether or not you want to manage a team or department down the road.
      Increasing your leadership abilities might look like owning more deliverables, taking a greater lead on team projects, or mentoring newer teammates. If you have a team reporting to you already, consider setting a goal of becoming a better manager, finding different ways to coach each of your direct reports, or creating opportunities to be seen as a leader outside of your immediate team.
      Depending on whether you have a team already or not, your micro goals will look a little bit different. If you don’t have a team, take some time to identify areas where you could take on a bigger leadership role and speak to the necessary parties (likely your boss) to see if it’s a possibility. Mentoring a newer teammate could be formal or informal and might look like finding someone who could use support and offering yourself as a resource to answer questions, provide feedback, and give advice.
      If you already manage a team, think about if there are courses you could take or books to read to become a better manager, speak to your boss about growing your team if there’s a need, or build out individual plans with each report to make sure you’re supporting them as best as you can. My career goal for 2023 is to become a better manager, so you’ll definitely find me researching some leadership courses this month!  

      If you’re up for review: Negotiate for the raise you want 
      There’s always a lot of buzz around the “New Year, New You” idea in January, but I propose we change that to “New Year, New Salary” because I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t love a bit more cushioning in their bank account. If you’ve been with your company for a while or have a yearly review coming up soon, creating a plan for a salary increase might be the perfect goal to set. Oftentimes companies will go into raise discussions with a prepared budget increase of 3-7% of your salary, so if you want more than that you’ll need to take the time to prepare and state your case through negotiation. 
      If negotiating is a scary thought for you, make 2023 the year you face that fear and ask for what you want! You’ll first want to create a list of all the ways you’ve added value for the company since your last raise, along with any metrics you can provide (think along the lines of “I strategized and launched our TikTok channel which grew our yearly site visits from social media by 35%”).
      Once you have your accomplishments, use online job boards, your network, and any salary publications to help you develop a target number that’s ambitious but still realistic. It can also be helpful to find similar job descriptions in states where salary transparency is required on the posting, such as California or New York, to use as a benchmark. Then, schedule a meeting with your boss and let them know you’d like to discuss your salary. Finally, put on your best hype music (I recommend Lizzo) and go get what you deserve! Remember, if the answer is unfortunately no, try to take that as a “not yet” and ask your manager what you’d need to do to receive the raise you want and what a realistic timeline would be to have the conversation again. 

      If you have an unexplored passion: Build a side hustle
      If you’re in an industry where freelancing is common or you have a skill you know people will pay for, 2023 might be the year you think about finally starting a side hustle. You’ve heard it all before, but having an alternative source of income can be a great security blanket during challenging times, can provide extra funding for a big savings goal, or just give you a little bit of extra fun money (prepare to say yes to that cashmere sweater you’ve had your eye on!). 
      The first micro goal is to figure out what your side hustle is going to be (a bit of a key step!). You could try out freelance writing, selling your art on Etsy, coding websites for small businesses, managing social media for a local organization…the options are truly endless. You’ll want to pick something that has a good hourly rate for the time you’ll be putting in and has enough demand to warrant making it your niche. Your next goals should include researching any licenses or tax implications you need to be aware of (some states require you to have a separate business bank account, for example), determining how many hours you can dedicate per week, and then working on marketing yourself and getting some customers.
      It might sound like a lot, but you can totally launch a profitable side hustle within a few months if you just dedicate a few hours to getting it up and running each week. Trust me, your bank account will thank you! 

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      The Secret Way People Are Finding New Jobs

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      When you’re looking for a new role, there are some clear steps you should probably take. Spruce up your resume with recent achievements, tidy up your LinkedIn and maybe get a new headshot to look professional, and start (or ideally, continue!) networking. But what if you’re doing that and aren’t seeing any results? In a tough job market, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged when applying to jobs posted on huge platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed, especially when you see that soul-crushing “100+ applicants” banner next to the job you’re looking at. It’s enough to make a girl want to give up and stay in bed forever.
      However, times like these just require job hunters to get a little more creative in how they find new opportunities. Enter: Industry Slack groups. The latest trend popping up across the networking world is the creation of Slack groups dedicated entirely to certain industries. Think groups like “Project Managers in Tech in Chicago” or “Wedding Photographers in Ohio”. These are the glow-up versions of the Facebook groups we all used to be part of (Neopets Forever, anyone?), but with real value for your career. These “secret” groups are filled with people in similar industries, and the insights, connections, and job opportunities posted in these groups can be hard to find elsewhere. I was able to find my most recent job—before it was ever posted on a job board or even company website—in a marketing Slack group for my city. The person leaving the role posted about it and mentioned she was looking for someone to recommend as a backfill. I was in the market, we went for coffee, and the rest is history.

      How to find an industry Slack group
      So, how exactly do you get yourself into one of these groups? It can be a little tricky, but nothing a little sleuthing can’t fix! The first place to start is—of course—Google. Try Googling keywords like “[your industry] Slack group” and your city to see what comes up. If you don’t get any hits, try searching variations of your industry, or move out a degree and search more general terms, like “product marketing Slack” and “United States”. Don’t get discouraged, even big, more generalized groups can still yield a lot of fruit (for reassurance, the Slack group where I found my job is for content marketers all across North America, and I see jobs posted in my city or that are open to remote workers almost daily).
      If you’ve done some Google searching and have come up dry, don’t give up yet. The next step is to head over to LinkedIn and start populating the same terms. Administrators or co-founders of groups often include this in their LinkedIn bio/career section, so you might be able to find a member to reach out to. Don’t forget to also ask colleagues, friends, your university alumni association, etc. if they know of any groups. It can be somewhat of a “who you know” game, but where there’s a will, there’s a way!

      I’ve found a group, now what?
      Congrats, you’ve found a group you want to join (and remember to be open to joining all kinds of groups, even ones that might only be loosely related to your field)! Once you’ve found your group, the next step is to get yourself added. Many groups are open to anyone, meaning you just need to find the link and add yourself. Some do require an invite, and the easiest way to get one is to find someone already in the group, which is where it’s beneficial to reach out to colleagues and friends to see if anyone’s in a group you’re interested in. If you don’t already know someone, see if you can find an admin or page for the group on LinkedIn, which is where I’ve had a lot of success. Lastly, look for organizations or associations related to your field, such as the “New York Copywriters Association” (I made that up, but you get the point), and send them an email. If they’re not associated with the group, they likely know someone who is.

      How to network in Slack
      Yay, you’ve made it into a group and are ready to nab one of those under-the-radar jobs! I’m super excited for you, but it’s important to know that there are some unspoken rules in most industry Slack groups. Most groups will have a code of conduct, likely in a #general or #announcements channel, and that should be your first stop. A lot of groups won’t allow you to spam or self-promote (which may or may not include posting that you’re looking for work, so double check!), or they’ll have rules about which channels can be used for what. In my experience, most admins take the code of conduct pretty seriously, so make sure you do, too. The last thing you want is to get kicked out after you spent all that time getting in!
      Where Slack groups differ from LinkedIn is that they’re a lot more focused on community and participation. The more you engage and converse with people in the group, the more likely you’ll find someone willing to give you a heads up on a great role coming down the pipeline. Add your thoughts to a thread about the future of social media, provide feedback to someone who’s asking for ideas for a new project, and post about any cool meetups you think people might enjoy. Building this credibility and being part of the community will go a long way.

      Finding a new job via Slack
      Okay, you’ve found the group, got invited, read the code of conduct, and have been actively participating. So, how about that new job? Most groups have a channel for job postings. As mentioned before, many groups don’t allow for you to post about looking for a role, so it can be a bit of a waiting game to find something that’s the right fit. When I was on the hunt, I checked each group a few times a day, and when an interesting or relevant role popped up I would message the poster that same day and see if I could speak with them. Not everyone will be open to this (some people post opportunities that recruiters messaged them about or roles in their company they don’t know much about), but a lot of people will be. The key is to try to be one of the first people to reach out so they are still willing to chat, and to come prepared with thoughtful questions to demonstrate your interest.
      After you’ve spoken to the person who posted the role—either via Slack or over a call—and confirmed your interest, be sure to have your resume and cover letter ready to go shortly after speaking with them. Don’t take too long to do this or the person might forget the conversation you had. Make sure you also ask your connection if you should send your application directly to them, through a link they’ll send you, or just through the company’s career portal. Some companies are super strict on how they accept and prioritize referrals, so make sure to clarify the right way to apply. Once you’ve submitted your application, make sure to follow general etiquette: circle back with your connection and thank them for their time and help, and keep them in the loop with how the process goes (unless they’re the hiring manager directly, which you might come across!).
      Pro Tip: Before openly posting that you’re looking for a job or responding in threads about roles you’re interested in, double check there’s nobody at your current company in the group (it’s a small world, after all). You can do this by searching the members in the top right corner. If you find your boss, other members of your team, or prominent HR people, think about using other groups to hunt for roles. At the very least, direct message people about jobs instead of responding in threads where anyone can see.

      Paying it forward
      Follow this formula until you find a role that works out for you. Many of my friends and people in my network have also found their latest roles through Slack groups, so it’s definitely a job hunting method worth looking into! Once you’ve found your role (or even before), make sure to pay it forward. Post jobs that you hear about from recruiters or are hiring for yourself, and be sure to let other people know about the groups you’re in. Slack groups can seem a little “VIP”-ish at times, but it’s important to remember that the more people who join them, the more future connections and jobs there are, so spread the love and invite anyone who might be able to benefit!

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      Our Managing Editor Reveals: The Tech Products She Would Sell Her Soul For

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      Every so often I get the urge to turn off my phone, unplug my wifi, and run away to the mountains with nothing but my books to keep me company. This tech-free life sounds wonderful and I’d be halfway out the door if it wasn’t for the fact that my Kindle, a device that requires wifi, is essentially my security blanket, and my weekly screen report from Apple is proof that going internet-free isn’t in the cards for me. So instead of galavanting off to a cabin in the woods, I lean into the tech products that make my life a thousand times easier. 
      I literally cannot sleep without my sound machine, am emotionally attached to my standing desk, and can’t fathom drying my hair without my trusty Dyson. This self-awareness is freeing. If you’re ready to fully embrace our tech overlords, join me in adding the tech products I would absolutely sell my soul for (even though no one asked) to your life—I promise you won’t regret it.

      In this article

       
      My Tech Favorite Products
      Many of the items here aren’t the most “fun” things to buy — they’re no Sephora haul or brand new bag — but when I say they’ve revolutionized my life, I’m really not exaggerating. My favorites listed here range from smaller gadgets that are easy to tack onto any Amazon purchase to bigger ticket items I’m begging you to finally pull the trigger on.

      Sunrise Alarm Clock
      I can no longer sleep well if I don’t have my Hatch Restore routine going. It allows you to create a custom sleep routine that gently guides you to sleep and to wake up with soothing sounds and light that mimics a sunset and sunrise, respectively. It sounds out there, I know, but I literally sleep like a baby when I use it and the slow-building morning alarm is so much more pleasant to wake up to than my phone blaring in my ear.

      Wireless Phone Charger & Accessory Tray
      The Courant wireless charging products are the perfect blend of form and function. I keep the Catch:3 on my nightstand to charge my phone overnight and hold my other bedside essentials. It looks great beside my bed and an added bonus: because my phone has to lay on the charger, I can’t stay up well into the night scrolling through TikTok with my phone plugged in. I can already feel my eyes becoming less strained.

      All-in-One Standing Desk
      My love for my Flexispot standing desk came as a complete shock to my system. However, after searching high and low for a standing desk that was semi-affordable and not horrendous to look at, I landed on this one and now I can’t imagine life without it. When combined with an under desk treadmill, it’s a combination that really can’t be beat.

      Ergonomic Laptop Stand
      I’ve dedicated so much time to finding aesthetically pleasing desk accessories and have truly never seen a prettier laptop stand that doesn’t cost a billion dollars. Yes, this one is a step-up from the $20 ones you’ll find all over Amazon, but it’s so worth it for an ergonomic solution that looks beautiful, too.

      Apple Pencil Charging Stand
      Before I got this charging stand for my Apple pencil, it was always dead, which meant I never really used it and therefore never really used my iPad. As soon as I got this little stand and placed it on my desk, my iPad became my lifeblood and my Apple pencil is always ready right when I need it.

      Wrist Support Keyboard Rest & Mouse Pad
      Are you tired of seeing this set on every desk essentials article we put out? I will not apologize for that because it is absolutely imperative you have this keyboard rest and mouse pad set. Your wrists will love you for using these and you won’t even have to sacrifice your desk aesthetic.

      Kindle Paperwhite
      The relationship I have with my Kindle could be described as unhealthy. But if it is, I don’t care. I have never read so much in my life than I do with my Kindle. It is the first thing I reach for every morning to accompany my morning coffee and the first thing I pack in my personal item when traveling. If anything ever happened to my Kindle, I’d have to replace it immediately. If you’re a reader who’s been waffling over whether or not to take the plunge, please do it. You won’t regret it.

      Desktop Webcam
      If you are still using your MacBook’s potato of a camera, please add this to your Amazon cart right now and click purchase. It is a massive and necessary upgrade for your WFH setup. It features a built-in ring light to keep the quality of your calls top-tier, even if the lighting everywhere else on your home is abominable.

      Keyboard Cleaner Kit
      I file this under nifty, cheap products that I will 100% delete from my cart before I actually place my Amazon order. However, when this all-in-one tech cleaner did finally survive my Amazon cart purge, it became a holy grail in my desk essential arsenal. I love that I can clean all the nooks and crannies in my various devices with just one simple tool.

      Roomba Vacuum
      I hate vacuuming almost as much as I hate doing dishes, so this robot vacuum is a true lifesaver. We have it set to go off twice a week (there are three dogs in this house so that frequency is 100% necessary), and I don’t even have to think about vacuuming unless I’m doing a deep clean in the nooks and crannies.

      Portable Label Maker
      A label maker is the kind of thing you only wish you had once in a blue moon, but when you do need one, you kick yourself for not having one. This is your sign to finally take the plunge. This one is cute, small, and connects to your phone for easy labeling.

      Red Light Therapy Wand & Serum Kit
      Beauty tech is a category I didn’t see myself buying into, but my experience with products like the Nuface and now the SolaWave have made me a true convert. This skincare wand combines several different beauty treatments in one—microcurrent, red light therapy, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth—for the ultimate self-care experience. Immediately after using, my skin is less puffy and glowing, and long term use targets fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. So it’s a win now and a win later.

      Laptop Carry Sleeve & Stand
      This laptop sleeve tops the list of things I didn’t even realize I needed until I had it. This sleek leather sleeve protects my laptop when traveling and doubles as an ergonomic stand when I reach my destination, whether it’s a coffee shop or a company trip. I love that I no longer have to sacrifice my beloved ergonomics when I’m working away from home. If you travel for work or really lean into that “work from anywhere” lifestyle, this is the laptop sleeve for you.

      Tech Products On My Wishlist
      Sure, this is a not-so-subtle hint to my family when I send them my “latest article to check out,” but it’s also an inside scoop for you, dear readers, at the items I’ve pre-deemed worth every single penny.

      Wi-Fi Connected Jet Mop
      I’ve already spoken about the undying love I have for my Roomba, and I am very close to taking the plunge on the mop version as well. The vacuum has made my life so much easier, especially with having pets, so I know the mop would be just as game-changing.

      4K Smart Monitor
      I do not need an iMac, and definitely don’t want to spend $2,000 for what is essentially a pretty monitor (nothing I do for work requires that kind of computing power). But, I still want a beautiful monitor to complete my desk. So, what’s a girl to do? When I first saw this Samsung monitor my jaw dropped at how perfectly it solved my dilemma. It’s the perfect upgrade to my setup and while still an investment, is much more affordable than the iMac.

      Desktop Vacuum
      This desktop vacuum cleaner has yet to survive one of my pre-checkout Amazon cart purges, but it’s only a matter of time before I take the plunge on this. I’ve seen countless videos about it on TikTok and know it’ll be such a useful addition to my desk.

      Light Therapy Lamp
      As a recent transplant to the Pacific Northwest, I don’t think I’m fully prepared for the gloomiest time of the year, even though I love the rain. This light therapy lamp would be the perfect device to have on my desk to help me get through the cold, dark, and rainy days when all I really want is to curl up on the couch.

      Compact Electric Heater
      The battle between my husband and I over the thermostat is constantly raging on, but this beautiful space heater might be just the thing to get me to back off. I’ve truly never seen a space heater like this before, and as someone who is always cold, I know I’d get my money’s worth.

      Lap Desk
      I love a work-from-the-couch moment, but my current lap desk has had its day in the sun and I’m in desperate need of an upgrade. This lap desk from Arlo Skye is a definite splurge, but I use my current one so much I know it will be well worth the cost. This one comes complete with a storage tray and a stand to prop up your phone or iPad—it’s truly perfect for all of my needs.

      16 Desk Essentials Your Body Will Thank You Big Time For More

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      16 Desk Essentials Your Body Will Thank You Big Time For

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      If you often find yourself finishing up a long workday in pain, you’re not alone. After all, things like tech neck, back pain, and eye strain are just a few common symptoms that come from working at a desk and staring at a screen for prolonged periods of time. Granted, we all have to deal with and push through pain occasionally, but dealing with pain day in and day out can take a toll on your mental health and affect your overall performance at work.
      The truth is, continuously working through or going into your workday knowing it could potentially end in pain is not going to set you up for success, which is why finding items that can help minimize pain is key to working at your fullest potential.
      Start thriving instead of just surviving with these desk essentials. From CBD relief cream to back cushions, laptop risers and everything in-between, these are the ergonomic desk essentials you need to add to your workspace ASAP.

      Twelve South
      Curve Laptop Riser
      Calling all laptop owners: This is one item your wish list needs. This chic laptop riser comes in a matte black or sleek white finish, so it pairs beautifully with any laptop shade and looks nice on any surface. What’s more, it’ll help combat and prevent neck and shoulder pain and make your video calls look even better by placing your laptop at eye-level.

      Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard
      Say goodbye to the days of trying to work through hand or wrist pain with this ergonomic keyboard. Designed with an ergonomic slope and built-in wrist rest for optimal hand and wrist placement, you’ll work in a more neutral position, combat hand pain, and prevent further injury or strain.

      Ergonomic Wrist Rest and Mouse Pad
      Lightweight, soft, durable, and slip-resistant, this wrist rest and mouse pad set is exactly what you need to alleviate hand and wrist pain. Plus, it’s made with memory foam for comfortable, easy use.
      Available in 15+ colors

      Cloud Cool Mist Humidifier
      Cold weather can exacerbate aches and pains, and indoor heating can zap moisture from the air. Breathe some life back into your space with Vitruvi’s Cloud Humidifier; the ultra-sleek, minimalist design can serve as desk decor while making your body feel better and improving your skin, hair, and natural immunity.
      Available in 3 colors

      Wear Me Pro
      Blue Light Glasses
      Combat screen-induced headaches and eye strain with a pair of blue light blocking glasses. We love a multitasking accessory, and these are super cute and effective.

      Simple Modern
      Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
      It’s no secret that staying hydrated can help keep your body in check, improve circulation, and reduce pain and inflammation. Keep a water bottle with you at all times to ensure you never forget to drink enough. The beauty of this size is that you’ll have to get up for more eventually, which will help break up the day, give your eyes a break from the screen, and get in some extra movement.

      Equilibria
      Relief Balm
      Pain can be unpredictable at times, but keeping Equilibria’s CBD Relief Balm handy can help.With 500mg of CBD and other loving ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, lavender, and menthol, this is a great all-natural alternative to over-the-counter pain reducers like Ibuprofen or Tylenol. Simply apply a pea-sized amount onto the affected area to calm down inflammation and provide much-needed relief.
      Use code ‘theeverygirl’ for 20% off of your first order at Equilibria!

      Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk
      If you’re looking to upgrade your desk completely and say goodbye to neck and shoulder pain once and for all, look no further. FlexiSpot’s standing desk is electrically powered and fully customizable, and lets you program up to three presets, so you can save the desk positions and heights that work best for you.

      Branch Furniture
      Ergonomic Chair
      There’s a reason Branch Furniture’s Ergonomic Chair has a 5-star rating—because it works. It simultaneously provides comfort and firm lumbar support, relieves pressure in your body, and supports a healthy posture. So, add this to your holiday wish list and say goodbye to long days spent sitting in uncomfortable chairs.
      Available in 3 colors

      Portable Back Massage Cushion with Heat
      A back massager with a built-in heating system that can be strapped to your desk chair and used as you work? Say no more. Designed to relax and soothe, you’ll never want to rush through work again.

      Ergonomic Back Relief Cushion
      Give your office chair an upgrade this season. Available in 4 colors, this back relief cushion is contoured to fit your natural lumbar curve and provide necessary spine support. Plus, it can be strapped to fit almost any chair.

      Cushion Lab
      Pressure Relief Seat Cushion
      Remedy tailbone pain that comes from sitting for prolonged periods of time with this ergonomic seat cushion. Designed to improve posture and relieve sitting and hip pressure, this portable seat cushion has a grippy bottom that will fasten to any desk chair and provide comfort and support all-day long. Plus, with 2 sizes and 13 colors to choose from, you’re bound to find something that fits both your vibe and your needs.

      Cushion Lab
      Under Desk Foot Rest
      Sitting for hours on end can put a lot of added pressure on your body, but simply adding a foot rest under your desk can provide some pain relief. This footrest is made with an ergonomic design and 3D Wave Foot Massage that will stimulate blood flow and enhance circulation for deep tension release. Really, it’s like stepping on a cloud.
      Available in 10 colors

      Under Desk Elliptical
      This under desk elliptical should be on every working woman’s holiday wish list. Movement makes your body feel better and helps combat long-term pain, so place this under your desk to get in extra activity while you work. Also included in purchase is a mat that will protect your floor, a resistance band, caster stoppers to keep your chair in place while using, and a tether strap that will secure the elliptical to your desk chair. More

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      This Time Management Method Promises To Declutter Your To-Do List—But Does It Work?

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      I think we can all agree that time-management is an important life skill. It is, however, not a skill that comes naturally to me. I’m more of the “wait until the last minute, then dart and dash” kind of woman. Maybe you’re like me. Maybe you, like me, always find yourself desperately scouting the mall for a new pair of shoes one day before your vacation, longing for a way to bring order and ease into the chaos. 
      Not too long ago, as I waded through my to-do list wondering if there was “a better way,” I was reminded of a trend I’d seen on Instagram: micro-scheduling. I decided to give it a shot for one full week so I could report back to any fellow hopefuls, looking for a way to declutter their to-do lists.

      What Is Micro-Scheduling?
      Micro-scheduling is a form of planning where you block your day out by 15-minute increments. It’s meant to help pace you out so you can complete your tasks in smaller chunks over a longer period of time. You’re essentially mapping out each baby step in the process of a task and jotting it into your calendar. Hence, the “micro” schedule.

      My Experience
      If the fact that I’m turning in this article one day early is any indication, I’d say this experiment was a success. After just one week of micro-scheduling, I can honestly say it completely altered my stress levels around my to-do list. Breaking tasks down into bite-sized pieces and seeing them time-stamped on my calendar made each item on my list feel more feasible, which kept me from procrastinating. I did find that I was able to get more done over a shorter period of time without feeling rushed through it all. 
      So, the short version is that I highly recommend this process and plan on integrating it into my daily life. Of course, my feedback doesn’t come without a few caveats. For example, I found myself living in my calendar far more than I ever have before. If you’re not someone who enjoys using a calendar to manage your day, this isn’t going to be for you. 
      I also noticed that by the end of the week I started modifying the process to meet my specific needs—because, frankly, life gets in the way of even our greatest intentions. For example, by the end of the week, I wasn’t blocking my entire day into 15-minute increments. That felt more laborious than helpful, but I did take the opportunity to sprinkle in 15-minute blocks to break up my more daunting tasks into manageable pieces. 
      If you’re looking to elevate your time-management style and want to give this process a go, read on for a few tips that will make it a little more adaptable for real life.

      My Best Micro-Scheduling Tips

      Plan on blocking in time for blocking in time.
      As I alluded to in my takeaway, the biggest “life change” I experienced while trying micro-scheduling was my reliance on my calendar. Blocking tasks out in such small steps takes time. The biggest mistake I made from the get-go was thinking that the actual planning part wouldn’t need to be blocked into my day. So each day, I gave myself a 30 minute block first thing in the morning to review my calendar and add or rearrange my tasks as needed. And yes, instead of 15 minutes, I chose 30. Maybe I’m just a slow mover, but not every task can be accomplished in 15 minutes. I decided to be realistic about how long I’d actually need for each task. I get a little triggered when I feel like I’m falling behind, so by buffering a little extra time, I’d often finish a task a little bit early, which felt like a win!

      View your calendar in 4 day increments, not a full week—and definitely not a month.
      The best part of this whole process, for me, was how it allowed me to be more present with each day. Before micro-scheduling, I kept a running list of to-dos in the notes app of my phone. I sometimes arranged them by priority, and always checked them off as I completed them. The problem with that strategy is that my brain was constantly fumbling over the bird’s-eye-view of EVERYTHING that needed to get done in my life, which is overwhelming at best and completely debilitating at worst. By using my calendar and only allowing myself to see four days ahead, I noticed my nervous system felt way more relaxed. Turns out life feels pretty doable when you’re not agonizing about everything all at once. Though I might have blocked a couple of items in my schedule further out to accommodate future deadlines, I only needed to see my life in four day increments when I viewed my calendar. Everything else was out of sight, out of mind.

      Give yourself more time than you need to meet a deadline.
      As I noted earlier, by far the hardest part of this process is making sure you’re realistic about how long each “baby step” task will take. We want things to move swiftly, but life has a way of dragging things out. For example, you might block out 15 minutes to call your insurance company and find yourself on hold for 45. Don’t let it discourage you if your micro-tasks take longer than you hope. The best way to avoid complications is to either sprinkle in 15 minute “catch up” blocks, extend a 15 minute block to 30 (like I did), or give yourself a slightly longer runway for completing a task. For example, if you have a work assignment due on a Thursday, try blocking out your micro-tasks for that assignment so that it’s completed by Wednesday. This gives you a little wiggle room when those baby steps turn into a crawl.

      Expect unforeseen events.
      I had an entire day squashed because of a sleeper sofa delivery gone awry. When the delivery people couldn’t get it through our hallway and the reality set in that I was going to have to send it back, I panicked. My mom is visiting for Thanksgiving and I’d put tons of research into getting the best pull-out couch for her stay. I ended up spending the better half of that day doom-scrolling the internet for sleeper sofas that could be delivered before the holidays.
      I ultimately decided that getting a couch we liked was better than settling on something that was available, so mom will be air-mattressing it this year, but my point is that an entire day’s worth of tasks got derailed because of an unforeseen event. When this happens, don’t beat yourself up. Unexpected annoyances are part of life, as much as we all wish they weren’t. This is why blocking time first thing every day to reevaluate your calendar is so helpful—if you weren’t able to knock out all the items on your list from the day before, you have time to rearrange everything to catch up.

      Leave blank space in your calendar each day.
      This kind of goes against the whole point of micro-scheduling, but I found when I packed my day TOO full, I was less likely to get as much done because as soon as I felt like I was falling behind, I’d give up. However, when I gave myself dead space in the middle of the day (or even blocked it out as “free time”) it allowed me to use that time to my advantage. If I needed rest, I’d rest. If I needed to use that time to catch up on the morning’s tasks, I could. Not every moment of our day is going to be predictable, so blocking in buffer time is key to ensure your best laid plans are realistic.

      You don’t have to micro-schedule your entire existence—you can use it even for just one aspect of your life!
      To be honest, my biggest gain while micro-scheduling has been my meal planning game. Writing in what meals I intend to make on any given weekday helps me stick to the plan and ensure I block in time to not only grocery shop, but meal prep and cook. It has made cooking nearly seamless. If there ever comes a time when I get tired of micro-scheduling every other aspect of my life into my calendar, I will most definitely continue to use it for meal planning purposes. So if you feel like you’re generally an organized person but need a little boost in just one area of your life, micro-scheduling could be a great way to nail it down!

      Know that it still takes discipline to stay on top of it all
      The great thing about micro-scheduling is that by sitting down each morning to set up your calendar, you’re already in the zone to stay on top of it. But like anything in life, it’s about putting on your proverbial shoes. My least favorite aspect of this process is that you don’t physically check off your tasks—as time passes they simply fade into your calendar’s history. This means you really have to stay on top of which tasks get completed and which need to be transferred to a future date. It doesn’t take a ton of effort, but it can feel like you’re married to your calendar. If you don’t like that feeling, this won’t be a symbiotic relationship for you. 

      Be kind to yourself
      If you’re like me, you start each new habit with excitement and enthusiasm, but the moment you get derailed you get hard on yourself. Let this be your permission to take it easy on yourself! New habits take time and life happens. I’ll admit it feels pretty awesome when you get through a day of micro-scheduling and all your tasks actually get done, but there are going to be days when you’re in the flow and days when you’re not. If you accept that it’s a ride with ups and downs, you’re more likely to stick to it long-term. More

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      How To Get the Look of an iMac Without Blowing Your Life’s Savings

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      Whenever I meet people who work from home, I am always curious about their WFH setup. Do they work from the couch most days? Is their setup in their living room? Do they post up at their kitchen counter? Or are they one of the lucky ones with dedicated office space? As a girl who has historically worked from the kitchen counter, I have saved more office photos to my “Home Office” Pinterest board than I can count so that when the day would come that I too would have my own home office, I would be able to make it as aesthetic (and functional, of course) as I have always dreamed of.
      I am happy to say that my home office design days are officially here, but I quickly ran into one problem: Every single inspiration picture I have saved has an iMac in it, and that one item basically takes up all of my design budget. After some dramatic pouting, I made the decision to not let that deter me from having what I have always wanted sans the price tag, so I am rolling up my internet scrolling sleeves to find the perfect iMac dupes.
      If you too have always wanted an iMac but you don’t feel like dropping over a grand, here is what you need to get the look:

      In this article

      Monitor
      Arguably the most attractive thing about an iMac is the sleek, silver design all the way around, so the most important thing to keep in mind when looking for an iMac dupe is the shape and the color—especially from the back. You want to make sure that even if your desk is in the middle of the room and not up against a wall, the back of the computer is just as pretty and seamless as the front. We love these options because they check all of those boxes:

      Pavilion All-in-One
      The HP Pavilion is the most like the iMac, but it is a few hundred dollars cheaper. With the same look and the ability to customize the color, processor, display, and more, this is one of the best dupes for an iMac on the market right now.

      FHD Monitor
      For a fraction of what the iMac costs, this monitor has a very similar streamlined look. Plus, if you have a Macbook, you can connect it to this monitor with an HDMI and enjoy all of Apple’s features on a bigger screen.

      Slim IPS Monitor
      The side and back of this monitor look just like an iMac with its sleek white and silver design. But the best part? It’s basically a 1/10th of the price. Since it also has HDMI ports, you can connect it to your existing laptop—whether it’s a Macbook or not.

      Keyboard
      One of the things I love the most about the look of an iMac is the sleek, wireless keyboard that pairs with it, but a keyboard that’s over $100?! I’ll pass. Here are a few options for wireless keyboards that look just as nice and work just as well as the infamous Apple Magic Keyboard:

      Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
      For under $60, this keyboard is one of the best dupes for the Apple Magic Keyboard. It has a slim design, the same quiet typing feature, and is compatible with all processing systems. We recommend the silver or white!

      Wireless Keyboard
      This keyboard from Amazon has the same aluminum style as the Apple Magic Keyboard and is under $50. However, keep in mind that this style is only compatible with Apple products, so you’ll need a Macbook to connect to your monitor in order to use it.

      Wireless Keyboard
      This under $20 option is a total steal. It’s slim and compact, so it won’t take up too much room on your desk, and it has a long battery life, making it the ultimate budget-friendly option.

      Mouse
      If you have a Macbook, you can splurge on the Apple Magic Mouse, but why would you when there are dozens of similar-looking options? Here are two of the best ones:

      Rechargeable Bluetooth Mouse
      This mouse is under $12 and has the same ergonomic design as the one from Apple. With an auto energy-saving mode, long battery life, and a one year warranty, you can’t beat it.

      Wireless Mouse
      This wireless mouse is identical to Apple’s and it’s under $16. We love that it offers noiseless clicking, is compact, and is compatible with any processor.

      Accessories
      Now we can’t put all this work into finding the best dupes without making the rest of your desk look just as good as your computer setup does. To achieve a Pinterest-worthy look, snag some of these desk essentials:

      The Single Purchase That Made Me Actually Want To Sit At My Desk All Day More