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    I Thought Networking Was Boring Until I Tried This Celebrity-Inspired Approach

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    Of all the advice on social media, one sentiment has stuck with me: Being successful is about increasing your opportunity for luck. Whether you’re on the job hunt (good luck, babe), climbing the career ladder, or starting a business, moving forward isn’t just about talent and hard work—serendipity and luck play a major role in everyone’s success story. Sometimes, increasing your visibility means sending a hundred job applications to increase the chance you hear back from one. But more often, it means putting yourself in front of the right people and hoping, in the future, they’ll think of you. But here’s the catch: The most effective way to do this is (cue Jaws theme) networking.
    Networking has gotten a bad rap. Something about it feels seedy and self-interested. I’ve definitely left interactions at networking events feeling like I walked into a job interview I wasn’t prepared for. Nightmare scenario. And I’m a people person. Against all odds, I thrive at house parties where I barely know anyone, and I always make friends when traveling solo. But the second you throw the word “networking” in the mix, my skin crawls, and my brain gets busy coming up with excuses to stay home.
    However, I’ve gotten to the point in my career when I can’t deny it anymore: The benefits of networking outweigh the full-body ick that comes with the thought of doing it. When done well, networking is about creating relationships. It’s about making yourself memorable. It’s not like an audition; that’s more like an interview. If you network well enough, your good vibes might let you skip the traditional interview process altogether. It’s about showing off the work you’ve already done—kind of like a press tour.
    Why I decided to treat networking like a press tour
    Somehow, press tours have become some of the most intriguing pop culture events. More than award shows and interviews, the creative ways the entertainment industry has started to market itself is what’s making headlines and keeping us hooked on social media. From Erewhon smoothies to themed outfits—like Margot Robbie’s vintage Barbie references and Zendaya going full tennis-core for Challengers—press tours have to be more inventive than ever to get people to pay attention.
    In the same vein, the job market is more competitive than ever. So, I decided to gamify the intimidating process of networking by thinking of it as a press tour. Lots of career advice is about thinking of yourself as a brand, but have you ever thought about yourself as a movie? Anecdotes about your work are like the trailer, and networking can even be fun if it’s a press tour.
    While this might sound a little too abstract or a reach, challenging myself to start thinking this way has done the impossible: made me excited for networking events. And since a press tour is made of many different stops, I’ve been going to a lot of events to test this theory, increase my opportunity for luck, and feel a little like Zendaya in the process. Here are the steps I’m taking to press tour-ify networking and a few of the networking tips and lessons I’ve learned along the way:
    How to treat networking like a press tour
    1. Figure out your goals
    Unlike sitting at your computer and tracking job applications, networking can feel fruitless because there is no real way to quantify it. Unless you put your own parameters in place. You can count business cards or tally every conversation you have, but to really feel like the effort is worth it, base your results on your goals.
    For example, as a freelance writer, I attend events with other writers, editors, creators, brands, and more. If I were looking for more writing opportunities, a successful night would be one where I connected with an editor. If I were trying to get on more PR lists, I’d find the right contacts to get me the goods. And if I were looking to form a bigger community of writers, I’d go in resolute to make friends with the other creatives who pursue this career, and then ask them to co-work with me sometime.
    My current goal is to get better at talking about myself. So, to get there, I’ve been talking to as many people as possible. While I make sure to ask them questions about themselves, I am trying not to lean on my usual habit of focusing on them to avoid talking about myself. Instead, I try to keep the conversation balanced and offer up anecdotes (that aren’t self-deprecating) about my work and my perspective. To me, it’s like the press tour interviews where the celebrities play with puppies or take lie detector tests. Those aren’t strictly about the project they’re working on, but they’re about getting people interested in the actors themselves. In a perfect world, my work would speak for itself. But there are lots of good writers. My goal is to get people interested in me so they can get interested in my writing, not the other way around.
    2. Visualize your ideal definition of success
    Now that you know what you want from your foray into networking, try to really visualize what success would look like. Is it a new job in a fancy high-rise building where you get to wear a chic blazer and lean into the corporate-core aesthetic? Is it an inbox full of accepted pitches? Is it a standing dinner date with a bunch of new friends in your industry? Get really clear on this visualization. Even make a vision board. Wherever you stand on the idea of manifestation, research shows that visualization boosts confidence. Since 76 percent of people who write down their goals actually achieve them, I like to make a vision board to visualize the career I want—and the path to get there. My most recent vision board has pictures from publications I’d like to write for, but also, you guessed it, pictures from really good press tours. Visualizing how to nail the process is just as important as imagining the end result. Like this whole press tour concept, it’s important to romanticize the journey.

    “My goal is to get people interested in me so they can get interested in my writing, not the other way around.”

    The key here is specificity. And aligning your vision with your goals. Do your research. Who are the key players in your industry? Whom do you aspire to be like? Who are the people who can make your dreams a reality? Knowing who they are can help you in two ways. First, you can take cues from their trajectories to inspire your own career. But it also helps you know who to talk to. As you do the networking circuit or attend conferences and events, just knowing who is in the room can give you a major leg up.
    3. Rehearse your lines
    Have you ever noticed that, during press tours, your favorite celebs will often tell the same stories? Over and over, they talk about that one funny moment behind the scenes or the well-rehearsed tale about how they landed the job, prepared for the role, or wrote the song. It’s because they know it’ll work. Those moments are chosen to showcase something about their project that will reel you in and keep you thinking about them. And while I would advise against writing a script and sounding too rehearsed, having some anecdotes on hand can help alleviate your nerves and keep you talking about things that are relevant to your goals—without veering into boring territory.
    This is different than an elevator pitch. It’s not a pitch at all. Just keep a few anecdotes in your back pocket alongside a quick explanation of who you are and what you do. I can’t count the times I’ve resorted to the cliche of weather talk because I couldn’t think of something to say. Prepping a couple of illustrative tidbits helps keep my goals front of mind. I’ve been sharing the tale of the time I got a tarot reading on a brand education trip. It reveals a little bit about me, namely my “woo woo” side, while also allowing me to segue into talking about the kind of writing I do and the people I’ve worked with.
    4. Create a character — and dress like them
    According to experts, when trying to become a new version of yourself, you should act as if you already are the person you want to be. Essentially, fake it until you make it. How does this person spend their days? How do they carry themselves? What do they wear? When coming up with this “press tour” concept, I thought about how the most fun press tours take every opportunity to reference their characters. The aforementioned Barbie and Challengers press tours are prime examples. In both cases, the cast channeled their characters to make audiences connect with the new characters. Ryan Gosling became Ken. Zendaya appeared in the audience of every major tennis match.
    In the same way, the version of myself I take to networking events is me but better. She’s a little more polished, and her life looks like my vision boards. To get into character, I dress like a higher version of myself. I didn’t buy a slew of expensive outfits to wear once—this isn’t a real press tour. But I did buy a couple of cool new pieces to get me out of my comfort zone and into character. New clothes also helped me get excited for the first few networking events. No matter how nervous I was, I got a little confidence boost from the feeling of wearing a new outfit.

    “I’ve gone from feeling like I’m playing a role every time I step into a room full of potential connections to feeling like this ‘character’ I created really is a version of myself.”

    So the feeling doesn’t wear off, I’ve challenged myself to wear the same pieces, styled differently, to each event. It helps give me some continuity: I know I feel confident in this shirt, so I can step into this character every time I wear it. Plus, exploring how to wear it—jeans one night, a pair of mushroom-colored work pants the next, and mary janes the next—makes each night an opportunity for reinvention.
    5. Go solo
    The hardest thing to get used to about networking: going alone. While bringing a plus-one can help you feel intimidated, it can also keep you from potentially generative conversations. It’s easy to stand in the corner talking to a bestie but remember: We’re trying to give ourselves every opportunity for luck. The people huddled together at these events don’t get approached as much as the other people who are walking around alone. The first couple of times, I FaceTimed my friends before leaving for the event just to get loose and get myself in the mood to yap. You can’t buy the kind of confidence you get from a quick call with someone who knows (and believes in) you.
    6. Keep showing up for yourself
    The first networking event I approached with this tactic, I was full of apprehension. It took a few tries to successfully work my practiced anecdotes into conversation and make my self-pitch sound natural. But with each interaction, it got a little bit easier. By the end of the first event, I was buzzing. Despite their rocky starts, each conversation I had was way more generative than any other time I had dipped my toes in the networking waters. I found myself looking forward to the next one instead of dreading it.
    Just a few months in, I’ve seen a change. I’ve gone from feeling like I’m playing a role every time I step into a room full of potential connections to feeling like this “character” I created really is a version of myself. And she has gotten so good at starting conversations. While my goal of improving my ability to talk about myself is a little hard to measure, I’ve already seen the results. When I sit down to write pitches or warm emails, I sound much more confident over email. I don’t let nerves make me procrastinate my emails, either. I apply the same principles and get a boost of confidence.
    7. Embrace your newfound confidence
    Confidence has been the main benefit of this exercise. It’s almost impossible to not be confident when channeling Zendaya and Margot Robbie. But one thing I didn’t expect: I don’t really need to imagine being them anymore. Hearing myself say positive things about myself over and over to strangers—and having them respond positively—has given me a major self-esteem boost. This has created a positive feedback loop where because I’m feeling more confident, I have an even better time at networking events, which boosts my confidence even more. Never one for gatekeeping, I’ve told all my friends about the personal and professional growth I’ve seen with this approach, and they’re taking it on, too.
    The main benefit of this “press tour” concept is keeping my momentum going. When it comes to networking, your work is never finished. At some point, you become the person people are trying to meet—and that’s what you’re working toward. But something with such abstract benefits can be hard to get out of bed for. But when I’m tempted to bed rot after a day of work instead of putting on my networking outfit and leaving the house, I pump myself up by reopening my vision board and remembering that if I want my life to feel like a movie, I have to go on the press tour.

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Langa Chinyoka, Contributing Writer
    Langa is a Los Angeles-based writer and strategist. She is currently an editor and content strategist at a marketing agency. Her work has appeared in The Paris Review, British Vogue, Highsnobiety, Eyeswoon, Camille Styles, The Good Trade, and more. More

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      Slacks Aren’t Private—6 Rules to Follow So Your Messages Don’t Get You Fired

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      Remember water cooler chats? The water cooler or the break area were places you could step away from your desk and let the corporate mask slip. It was a space to let off steam about overbearing supervisors or difficult-to-work-with colleagues. However, now that 22 percent of people work remotely, many “water cooler chats” are restricted to company-provided networks like Slack or Microsoft Teams, and those messages are not private.
      While it’s human nature to commiserate, many companies have admonished employees for gossiping. As more corporations rely on data to gauge productivity, they can use this same software to surveil your conversations. So, I can’t stress this enough: You really need to be careful about what you say in your work chats. We want you to keep your job in this chaotic market, so we’re breaking down six rules for slack etiquette to ensure your messages don’t get you fired.

      MEET THE EXPERT
      Alisha Banks
      Alisha Banks is a business management consultant  and creative professional with a diversified background including specializations in product management, fraud prevention and analysis, and competitive intelligence.

      1. Keep it neutral
      It’s totally reasonable to have critiques about your job and employer. However, when airing your grievances to others, say less and stick to the bottom line. “Keep it neutral and avoid strong wording or stances,” Alisha Banks, Business Management Consultant, advises. While you’re within your right to challenge what is not working, be mindful of how you express your frustrations. For example, instead of saying you “hate” the new company-wide policies rolled out by management, speak about what you like. And for what you don’t, keep it neutral with a simple comment like, “I’m curious to see how these new policies will improve my workflow.” Remain objective and avoid empty complaints, as they can foster an uncomfortable environment for others and negatively affect their experience—giving your employer a reason to fire you.
      2. Assume your employer reads your messages
      Sometimes, we act before thinking and send off an emotionally charged message. And while you can delete or edit your Slacks, your employer can still view them afterward; oops. If it’s one of those days, and you can’t help but pop off over messages, may we suggest you do it with a tone of neutrality and follow it up with a solution? Using the example of new company-wide policies, refrain from reactive opinions and off-the-cuff remarks. Instead, use your passion to brainstorm with a teammate on alternative solutions to offer up to your supervisor. Most employers are solely focused on what’s best for the company, so tailor your complaints to be solution-oriented. Maybe when they read your messages, they’ll find your grievances warranted! If you really do need to blow off steam (we all have those days!), take the conversation offline and onto your personal devices. More than anything, we recommend venting to a friend, a partner, or your journal.
      3. Don’t say anything you wouldn’t want to be repeated
      From work wives to work besties, building close bonds in the workplace is natural and encouraged. However, it’s important to remember they’re still your colleagues, and you never know what’s being repeated to other workmates. Save the juicy gossip for your friends outside of work. “Obviously, be friendly to your colleagues, but remember these are your co-workers at the end of the day, and you don’t know who is telling who what, especially in this remote landscape,” says Banks.
      4. Be mindful of your tone
      Tone doesn’t always translate via texts, and if you primarily communicate with colleagues on Slack, it’s not guaranteed your messages won’t be taken out of context. When communicating online, keep it light and err on the side of optimism so your comments aren’t perceived as problematic. When used sparingly, emojis are a great tool to soften your delivery or convey a point succinctly and warmly.
      5. Remain emotionally unattached
      At the end of the day, you should work hard at your job, but remember it doesn’t define you. If it’s affecting your emotions, it might be time to take a step back and redefine your priorities. Expressing your frustrations occasionally can help relieve stress and even trigger an “aha moment” to a problem. But, if you’re often emotionally triggered at work, you may want to find an alternative outlet to let off steam. The age-old advice of taking a beat when angry before communicating applies at work, too. “Try not to be super emotionally attached to whatever is going on at work,” says Banks. And if you do find yourself activated at work, go for a short walk, do a short meditation in your car, or call a friend on your break to take your mind off things; opt for gentle practices that help center and ground you.
      6. Set boundaries with coworkers
      Sometimes, you’re not the one gossiping; instead, you’re a listening ear to disgruntled co-workers. This can be tricky because you’re technically still participating in the conversation, and your employer may assume you feel the same as your colleagues. Not to mention, work drama is distracting to your actual work, and you’ve got enough on your plate. “You don’t know who is watching, and at the end of the day, it’s better not to be involved in any drama,” Banks advises.
      Set boundaries early and swiftly. Let your co-workers know you’re uncomfortable having those types of discussions at work, and if it’s important to you to hold space for them, suggest a meet-up outside of work. Gossip is best discussed over cocktails, anyway.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR
      Jasmine Desiree, Contributing Writer
      Jasmine Desiree is an L.A.-based writer and editor who covers everything from beauty and lifestyle to interior design. Her writing can also be found in Coveteur, Architectural Digest, POPSUGAR, and more. She loves covering people, places, and trends that are innovative and influential to the culture. More

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      Does What You Wear to Work Actually Matter?

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      Up until working at The Everygirl, every job I’d ever had had a dress code that bothered me to no end. From a “no shoulders” rule as a concert usher in high school to a “covered knees, covered chest” rule at a restaurant job in college, I along with many others hear society’s message loud and clear: dressing modestly equates to being taken seriously, and therefore makes you “better” at what you do. Let it be known that acknowledging this ideal as a misogynistic dumpster fire is far from a new revelation. But through none other than the power of TikTok, Gen Z women have recently brought the conversation of what it means to “dress professionally” in the workplace to the forefront—and we should absolutely be hearing them (and their stellar office ‘fits) out.
      However, the nuances of the great work attire debate cannot go unrecognized. One TikTok video that garnered quite a bit of buzz sums them up perfectly, as a woman shared how she was asked to reschedule a job interview because she was wearing shorts, with almost all of the 30K+ comments agreeing that she deserved to be turned away. You could argue that this ends the conversation, point-blank period: What you wear to work does, in fact, matter. Well, it does matter, yes—but not for the reasons we’ve been conditioned to think, and maybe not for much longer. Here’s how women in the office today are challenging what it means to “dress professionally”:

      The narrative that clothing defines capabilities is changing day by day
      I’ll say it: I have seen more cool, creative, expressive, it-girl outfits in office OOTD TikToks than I have on some NYFW runways—and that is a world I want to live in. Unfortunately, change doesn’t happen overnight. That said, our “for you” pages are flooded with videos challenging the traditional office dress code norms set by past generations, not from a place of rebellion but from one of self-expression and a desire to feel confident in the workplace.
      Emily Blair Media, an award-winning public relations agency, sets a perfect example of a workplace that sees fashion as a way to empower instead of hinder. Controversially, they openly have a “no dress code” policy in their Gen Z-dominated office. They frequently share office OOTDs on TikTok amongst their impressive “on-the-spot” PR pitches and inspiring advice sessions, demonstrating how someone’s OOTD in no way defines what they bring to the table as a hard-working woman.

      A bright-colored top, naked knee, or a sneaker does not negatively impact anyone’s performance—an environment that hyper-sexualizes or shames the expression of its employees does. Associating modest, business attire with how seriously someone takes their job is a deep-rooted patriarchal belief and standard that will take time to reverse, and these silly little videos have become a huge stepping stone in that process.
      Workwear expectations are outdated, to say the least
      You think you fell out of a coconut tree? When it comes to office dress codes, Kamala Harris kind of hit the nail on the head. Particularly in 9-to-5 corporate spaces, the expectation of what employees (particularly women) should wear to work is a long-standing tradition that has reigned supreme for much longer than the newer generation’s widespread push to redefine it. Like all social or political movements, challenging prejudiced norms is a mandatory first step to creating the change we want to see. However, it’s not until people who embody our visions are in positions of power that the culture will shift entirely. Will your 57-year-old boss in finance ever come to terms with you stunting your eclectic grandpa aesthetic in the all-staff? Probably not. But, promotion by promotion, we are moving closer to that reality.

      A bright colored top, naked knee, or a sneaker does not negatively impact anyone’s performance—an environment that hypersexualizes or shames the expression of its employees does.

      The goalposts shift little by little with each generation
      Like Emily Blair Media, there are already Gen Z-dominated companies that have shifted dress code expectations entirely, but there are not quite enough to change these universally accepted rules of thumb overnight—and that’s totally OK. As of right now, HR, manager, and CEO roles are filled by generations more accustomed to traditional office dress codes—whether they are boomers, Gen X, or millennials. So, making a complete 180-degree switch is easier said than done. However, things are changing. At The Everygirl, for example, our predominantly millennial-led meetings feature women rocking no makeup and matching sweat sets. And when we’re in the office, everyone’s unique personal style is on full display—even if “unique” sometimes means collectively pulling up like a ’90s Gap ad.
      Until a time when younger generations outnumber the older ones in positions of authority, patience is key. Is this a bit frustrating at times? Yes. But can we still push the boundary of what it means to dress professionally within these rules? Absolutely, and those rules will evolve generation after generation.

      There are more stylish days ahead for employees
      Through these fun little TikTok videos, Gen Z has made it known that the conversation of what it means to “dress professionally” isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. At the end of the day, dressing in a way that makes you feel like the most powerful, confident, and productive version of yourself should be the baseline standard, and however that manifests itself from person to person shouldn’t matter. The narrative of “professional dress” will be completely flipped on its head in due time. Until then, all we can do is continue to push boundaries where we can, keep the discourse going both online and next to the office water cooler, and know that there are brighter (and God knows more stylish) days ahead.

      MEET THE AUTHOR
      As the Branded Content Editorial Assistant, McKenna assists the sales team with the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, pitching and contributing stories of her own, and more. Some of her favorite topics to write about are entertainment, culture, and lifestyle. More

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      The 8/8/8 Rule Saved Me From Burnout and Improved My Mood

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      I was 30 minutes into a negative thought spiral on my hot girl walk when I first heard about the 8/8/8 rule. The spiral in question? A classic “I have no free time, life is slipping away from me, I’ll never have deep meaningful relationships the way I did as an adolescent”—you know the vibes. That’s when I heard Karena Dawn (founder of Tone it Up) on The Everygirl Podcast, sharing the simple way she organizes her day, and her explanation of The 8/8/8 Rule altered my brain chemistry. If you, too, are a workaholic who struggles regularly with work-life balance, I am here to pass on the wisdom of The 8/8/8 Rule for improving mood, stress levels, and feelings of burnout.
      Disclaimer: I am by no means saying that this arbitrary numbered method is the way that humans were meant to live; sitting at a desk indoors with artificial light is arguably not the healthiest way to spend eight hours a day. However, corporate structures persist, and as long as I exist within them, I find this simple rule to be a helpful framework for organizing my day. Take what works for you, and leave the rest. Here’s everything you need to know about The 8/8/8 Rule: what it is, why it’s helpful, and how to incorporate it into your life.

      In this article

      What Is The 8/8/8 Rule?
      The 8/8/8 formula centers around the idea of dividing your day into three eight-hour blocks, so you’re looking at your 24 hours in three separate categories instead of as a whole: Eight hours for sleep, eight hours for work, and eight hours for you. The “you” eight hours may look like three hours in the morning before work and five hours at night. Perhaps you prefer to take an hour in the middle of your day or start your workday a little later. Whatever your schedule and constraints, you can flex time to fit into this framework.
      Why Is It Helpful?
      It’s no secret that many of us struggle with finding balance in our daily lives. If you love a rubric like me, this method can be a helpful guide for organizing your life with balance. It’s a way to structure both your free time and work time to ensure you’re making the most of it. Most of us think of work as the majority of our days: any time before we start work is just time to set up our day for work, and any time after work is spent unwinding from work before bed. Those eight hours are dictating all 24 hours of our day. But if you work the standard eight hours a day, work is not the majority of your awake hours; it’s only half of them. This reframe can help us be a lot more intentional about how we’re spending that time.
      Looking at 24-hour days in three different blocks also avoids letting one block dictate others. When you look at your day as a whole, it’s easy to want to lay on the couch until bedtime and then get to bed late because you want to keep bingeing Netflix after a stressful workday. But if you look at your day like three separate blocks, your stressful work day does not have to affect the eight hours you spend not working or the eight hours you spend sleeping. “When you look at [your day] this way instead of time running you, the anxiety about time will go down,” Dawn said on The Everygirl Podcast. I can attest that this is true—once your day is structured around this method, all of that “I don’t have enough time stress” really dwindles.
      Breaking Down The 8/8/8 Rule
      The First Eight Hours: Sleep
      Sleep might just be the most underrated wellness hack. It’s not as sexy as your supplements, it doesn’t photograph as well for your vision board, but it truly is step one for a healthy life. If you aren’t sleeping, all the other stuff you’re trying to optimize is kind of like pouring water into a cracked glass. But how much sleep do we really need? An average of eight hours of sleep has been shown to improve cognitive function, energy levels, emotional regulation, and more. Age, genetics, lifestyle, and activity can mean this number looks a little different for everyone (if you’re more of a 10-hour girl, more power to you!), but eight is a good rule of thumb.
      The Middle Eight Hours: Work
      This one can get a little dicey for the entrepreneurial types or go-getters with a 14-hour workday mindset. On the flip side, eight hours might seem daunting for those who desire a life of frolicking and leisure. If you (like me) tend to flip-flop between these two modes, the eight hours of work is a great place to start setting work-life boundaries and optimizing productivity.
      If you have more of a grindset and think that eight hours isn’t enough for your goals, it may be worth taking a closer look at how you’re spending that time. Are there tasks that you could streamline? Are there meetings that could be emails? Evidence suggests that as we decrease our working hours, we become more productive. Maybe setting boundaries around when you’re logging on and off for the day can help you maximize the time you are at work.
      For those working outside of the “9-5” structure, this can be a helpful guide for setting up your work-life balance too. If you find you’re most creative in the morning, maybe you set aside three hours for work, take some leisure time in the middle of the day, and finish those five hours later. If you have a five-hour shift, maybe you’re blocking out three hours to work on a side hustle or taking a course to further your skills. Those eight hours don’t necessarily have to be spent in a formal workplace but are meant to be time dedicated to your professional life.
      The Final Eight Hours: Time For Yourself
      Thinking about my time outside of work in this way was a seismic shift for me. I realized that I viewed my time outside of work in the context of work. My morning routine was time to get ready for it; my evening routine was spent recovering for the next day. Applying The 8/8/8 Rule made me realize that this time I was qualifying as peripheral is actually a third of my life. Thinking about those eight hours as being dedicated to personal joy helped me be more intentional with that time. What do I want to do? What will fill my cup? What things do I want to check off my list?
      I’ve been spurred to commit to weeknight activities: something to force me to clock out, log off, and get away from a screen. Reclaiming this time (and not being afraid to make plans) has helped me show up to work with more energy. I am a rot-on-the-couch gal to my core, and it was tough to force myself out of that routine. Turns out, when you make the plans, you may actually leave more energized afterward. If you’re finding yourself creeping toward burnout, remember that it’s not your job to spend precious eight free hours solely preparing to take on the next eight hours of work again. How often do we let our workday stress bleed into our post-work plans? If your life outside work means you need more caffeine when you clock in the next day, that’s OK, too.
      These eight hours are so essential. Be intentional with them. Do things that light you up, do things that rejuvenate you, and consider them to be just as important as any work commitment you have. We know that hobbies are critical to our well-being, and we know that community is essential for our health. This time block should be dedicated to exploring those things and creating your best, most balanced life.
      Final Thoughts
      This is not a one-size-fits-all method. Many factors, including your profession, your commute, and your particular sleep needs might shift these hours around a bit. Even if the particulars of The 8/8/8 Rule aren’t for you, you can still benefit from committing equal energy and intention to these three areas of your life. It’s kind of like “work hard, play hard,” except you also get a solid eight hours of sleep. Now that’s the kind of work-life balance we all deserve.

      MEET THE AUTHOR
      Abigail Moseman, Social Media Assistant
      As the Social Media Assistant at The Everygirl, Abi works with the Social Media Editors to ideate and create content, and build community across all of The Everygirl’s social channels. When she’s not working diligently on The Everygirl’s TikTok, she coaches group fitness classes at Equinox. More

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      I’m Not Giving Up My Summer Fridays Just Because It’s Fall—Here’s How

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      In juxtaposition to the summer, the fall is when we get serious about work. After all, there are fewer places to go and people to see as the weather gets colder, so it only makes sense that we’d put more effort into our careers and kiss those summer Fridays goodbye. The problem with this? The five-day workweek is becoming an outdated concept. It commonly depletes our mental resources, which hinders us from working at peak performance. The only logical solution to this IMO is to continue to streamline our workweeks. Sure, we might have to be online on Fridays now, but that doesn’t mean that Fridays all of a sudden have to go from days off in the sun to jam-packed with to-dos.
      Thankfully, it’s not that complicated to continue having stress-free Fridays. You can, in fact, achieve all of your goals and close out the year strong by implementing a few simple intentions Monday-Thursday. Ahead, we’re sharing how you can maximize productivity and efficiency so you can optimize your work and enjoy an easy Friday at the office.
      1. Plan your week before it even starts
      Before leaving work the week prior, during your Sunday reset, or before you clock in on Monday morning, you need to create a plan of action for the week. Ask yourself what you have coming up and what needs to get done before you clock out on Thursday. Be sure to take a look at your personal and professional calendar to see what meetings or appointments might take up some of your time. Doing this before your week starts allows you to hit the ground running Monday morning and not waste any of your precious time.
      Planning will help you manage your time better, boost your focus, and help you complete your tasks seamlessly and efficiently. Plus, if something pops up at the last minute, you already have a full view of what your week looks like, so you can decide where you can fit it in rather than letting it derail your week completely or become a Friday to-do.
      2. Shorten meeting times
      Although meetings are important for fostering connection and ensuring all employees are on the same page, long meetings are unnecessary, and yes, some meetings really could just be emails. Not only do some cut into your day and prevent you from getting things done, but they can also be mentally draining, making it harder to be productive. To combat this, identify meetings you can shorten and meetings you can cut altogether. Shorter meetings will give you more time during the week for tasks you need to get to before Friday. Plus, your meetings will be more productive since you won’t have time for long tangents and chit-chatting about the newest TikTok trend before diving into the meeting agenda.
      3. Reattach to your work every morning
      We’ve all had mornings where we frantically dive into work because we overslept or got stuck behind a school bus on our commute. And on those mornings, we have a harder time staying focused. Apparently, there’s a reason for this. Studies show that taking the time to reattach to work in the morning is the secret to higher work engagement, better use of job resources, and more positivity. Essentially, this means that by taking a few minutes to settle into our workday, we are more likely to get shit done. Try doing a career meditation, visualizing a positive workday while sipping your coffee, or journaling before clocking in for the day. Likewise, you can also imagine how you’ll spend your after-work hours knowing you checked off everything on your to-do list. This always motivates me to knock out more tasks since I’ll be rewarded for my hard work.

      During your time away from your desk, rest and renew properly. That way, you can operate at peak performance when it’s time to get to work.

      4. Implement monotasking
      Monotasking is essentially the antidote to multitasking and emphasizes focusing on one task at a time until it’s completed. While this isn’t a groundbreaking concept, it’s a hard one to master. We live in a world filled with distractions that cause our tasks to take two to three times longer than they should. I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time for that when I’m trying to have relaxing Fridays for the foreseeable. To prevent distractions and use monotasking to your advantage, you need to eliminate anything from your work environment that might cut into your focus. I place my phone in another room or put it on “do not disturb” during my workday. You could also wear noise-canceling headphones to block out outside noise or even set parameters on your phone that don’t let you check social media.
      Different tricks work for different people, but try your best to play to your strengths and weaknesses; if you can hear a notification on your phone without picking it up, you might be able to leave it on “do not disturb” or keep it on your desk. Implementing this has been a serious game-changer in my ability to cross tasks off my list before Friday. I complete assignments so much faster when I’m not stopping every 10 minutes to refresh Instagram. Who knew?
      5. Consider extending your work hours
      If you’re struggling to get the majority of your work done before Friday, consider extending your work hours Monday-Thursday. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to work all day long—because you absolutely shouldn’t, and that’d impede your mental well-being. Rather, it’s similar to what you do when you’re taking PTO on a Friday. You work a little longer, so everything that needs to get done is before you’re OOO.
      Instead of working four eight-hour days, try working four 10-hour days, especially on weeks you’re busy AF. During your non-busy weeks, you can finesse your schedule accordingly; you might start and end work a half hour earlier or later on one day, clock out normally for four days, and so forth. Working longer hours might not sound ideal, but an earlier start in the mornings is always worth it when Friday rolls around. It allows me to accomplish all my tasks without sacrificing my mental health and well-being, and for that reason, I highly recommend it.
      6. Prioritize your well-being
      Your life outside of work affects your life at work. It’s almost impossible, at least it is for me, to show up as my best self in the workplace when I am not showing up for myself outside of it. We all have a lot of responsibilities, personally and professionally, that take up our mental resources (or our sanity, depending on the week). By prioritizing time to yourself in the hours you’re not working, whether that’s enjoying a yoga class after a long day or (dare I say it??) sleeping in on the weekends, you’ll have a better chance at tackling all your to-dos.
      Getting all of your work done in four days time isn’t always easy, but it is a lot easier when you don’t feel so damn depleted all the time. During your time away from your desk, rest and renew properly. That way, you can operate at peak performance when it’s time to get to work, and you’re less likely to have work spill into your precious Fridays.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR
      Arianna Reardon, Contributing Writer
      Arianna is a Rhode Island native, professional blogger, and freelance writer. She’s passionate about helping women develop healthy relationships with money, become financially independent, and invest in themselves for the future. Arianna is a firm believer in going after what you want, taking time to stop and smell the roses, and the importance of a good cocktail. More

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      The Most Important Lesson I’ve Learned From Successful Women

      by

      There’s no arguing that we live in a digital world. From TikTok rants to latte art Instagram stories to long Facebook updates from our families, we are constantly tuned in on multiple different platforms. While this can be a good thing (shoutout to FaceTime for sponsoring long-distance relationships), having constant notifications on our phones can also take its toll on our mental health. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good IG story, and I spend more time than I care to admit watching cute otter videos on TikTok; however, when I see good news come up in my feed, whether it be someone I know or a random high schooler getting into Yale, I notice a shift in my emotions that can only be described as envy.
      I graduated with a degree in music theatre because I love performing and sharing stories, so why am I jealous of my friend who just got promoted at her 9 to 5 in finance? And why did I feel the need to one-up her? Not only was I confused as to why I wasn’t happy for her, but I felt ashamed that I was so desperate for attention that I was grasping to make up a success of my own to share. I knew I needed to make a shift, and I noticed a pattern in the successful women around me: They all succeed in silence. Here’s why it’s the most important lesson I’ve learned from successful women.
      Why Succeeding in Silence is The Most Crucial Lesson I’ve Learned from Successful Women
      Succeeding in silence isn’t meant to diminish your accomplishments or isolate you from your support system; rather, it helps you protect your peace and ensure you’re working toward your accomplishments for the right reasons. The days of working your way up the corporate ladder because it’s “what you’re supposed to do” or applying to law school to make your parents happy are over. Succeeding in silence is as much about keeping a low profile as it is working towards something you alone actually want to achieve.
      I know “succeed in silence” sounds like something your mother might tell you at the kitchen table because she thinks you’re gloating too much, but this mentality can keep you safe from a rollercoaster of emotions. Whether you’re like me and tend to see everything as a competition or struggle with imposter syndrome and feel like you need others to validate your accomplishments, choosing to refrain from sharing your success can actually help you gain internal peace and pride in your work.
      When I stopped posting every update and achievement online, I gained so much clarity. I no longer chase outside validation and instead do the things I’m truly passionate about. Remember, your achievements are still achievements regardless of whether you announce them to the world or not—they don’t need to be displayed on social media to be valid.

      Remember, your achievements are still achievements regardless of whether you announce them to the world or not—they don’t need to be displayed on social media to be valid.

      How You Can Practice Succeeding in Silence
      If you find yourself getting caught in the comparison trap that is your social media feeds, adopting a “succeed in silence” mentality might be the secret to kicking those feelings of imposter syndrome and inadequacy to the curb for good. If you’re not sure how to actually do this, years of practicing this mindset have made me somewhat of an expert. My best tips for succeeding in silence below:
      1. Don’t post every single life update
      We all have that one person we compare ourselves to, no matter how hard we try. Even with Instagram’s mute feature, we still somehow end up hearing about all the amazing things they’re doing and accomplishing and feeling like failures ourselves. While you might think posting more about what you’ve been up to will stop you from feeling insignificant, it will actually do the opposite because you’re posting to keep up with or outdo someone else. It might seem like the unnatural thing to do, but going incognito will allow you to refocus all the time and energy spent worrying about what they’re up to on yourself, ultimately helping you achieve your goals faster. Don’t feel like you need to advertise your plans and progress to everyone for them to be valid—your goals are valid because they’re important to you.
      2. Focus on celebrating rather than sharing your accomplishments
      Let me make it so clear that I am the biggest advocate for celebrating the little moments in life. You don’t need to win a Nobel Peace Prize to deserve recognition for your accomplishments. However, there is a difference between celebrating success and sharing success, especially on social media.
      You can celebrate without seeking validation from your followers, especially if that’s something that’s caused you stress in the past. Perhaps you order take-out instead of cooking dinner to celebrate a big win at work; treat yourself to your favorite fruit at the farmer’s market because you crossed a mini-milestone in that side project you’re working on. Or, if it’s a big win, you finally pull the plug and book that trip to Spain. Whatever and however you celebrate it, the joy will last longer than the dopamine rush from your follower’s words of affirmation.
      3. Delete the apps
      OK, raise your hand if you get a jump scare when you see your weekly screen time report. It’s me, I’m raising my hand. When I was at the peak of using competition to mask my self-doubt, instead of deleting social media, I just turned off the screen time notifications. This ultimately agitated my anxiety even further and made me become a person I didn’t want to be.
      Eventually, I came to my senses and realized that 90 percent of the negativity I felt day-to-day came from social media, and I realized the quickest fix was not unfollowing people or muting them but rather just going cold turkey and deleting the apps. Like I said before, we live in a digital world and social media can be an exceptional tool, especially for small businesses and creatives, but if you’re using it to try to feel better about yourself, the only way to actually do that is to stop sweeping things under the rug and finally come to terms with where your insecurity is ultimately stemming from.
      This doesn’t mean you have to be incognito forever; Instagram can come and go from your home screen as it needs to. If you follow me, you know I LOVE a good Instagram story and reel; however, whenever I sense social media is doing more harm than good, I just delete the apps. Deleting social media is like listening to your body about food—if gluten hurts your tummy, you stop consuming it, so if social media is hurting your soul, stop consuming it.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR
      Bryanna Cuthill, Contributing Writer
      Bryanna Cuthill is an NYC-based writer with a Bachelor of Music in Music Theatre from Baldwin Wallace University. Being a textbook hopeless romantic, and writing professional pretender on her taxes, Bryanna is no stranger to being delulu and achieving a teaspoon of success for every cup of rejection. She truly believes the pen is mightier than the sword and hopes to be the internet big sister she never had and encourages everyone to chase success while also taking the time to romanticize their own life.  More

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      Juggling Business and Friendship: 4 Tips for Navigating Working with Friends

      by

      Working alongside my best friend is a joy that I sincerely treasure. It’s like having the freedom to ease into the day without the morning rush! Our meetings? They feel more like strategizing our next Netflix binge and trusting her with the big decisions feels as natural as breathing. But don’t get it twisted—it’s not all fun and games. Working with friends doesn’t come without challenges.
      My best friend and I started a new business together, and while we share the same vision for it, we’re definitely not the same person. As we’ve grown as individuals and as professionals, we’ve had to adapt regularly and continue to learn alongside one another—in both business and life. This has come with its own set of surprises, and trust me, they’re not always the fun kind. Thankfully, we’ve learned how to weave friendship and business and find the perfect balance over time. So, whether you’re navigating the corporate world with your best friend or in business together, I’m sharing my best advice for working with friends.
      Set clear boundaries from the start
      Setting clear lines between your work and personal lives is the first (and arguably the most important) thing you should do. How you spend your time together has to be intentional—whether you’re working on a new proposal in the office or laughing over wine on the weekends. They both serve their purpose, but each needs to have separate time and space dedicated to them.
      Defining clear work hours (specific times when you are working together or even talking about work) can help you respect each other’s time and personal commitments. For example, don’t call your friend to talk about work on the weekend when she has friends in town. Using different communication tools for work and personal chats can help with this. Slack or email can be used for work, while texts or social media can be used for personal interactions. The line between work and life can easily get blurry when these cross.
      Similarly, try not to solely talk about work all night long when you’re with the rest of your girlfriends. They won’t be in on the tea, and it can make others feel a little left out. We get it, you work together. Save it for Monday!
      Don’t be afraid to have hard conversations
      Put on your big girl panties because shit can get real when you are working with friends. Tough talks? They’re the secret sauce to a no-nonsense relationship—inside and outside of work. Don’t tip-toe around hard-to-tackle topics like how your working relationship is going.
      To discuss tough topics without drifting into personal territory, my best friend and I schedule chats as needed to talk through any work-related issues we are running into together. We come prepared with points to cover so we can stay focused on the issue at hand. This, along with avoiding placing blame on one another, helps keep our friendship and professional respect intact, ensuring no bad blood spills over. If the air starts to feel heavy or misaligned, we take a step back and have a true heart-to-heart, so we can get to the bottom of what’s really going on. Did someone cross a boundary? Are we actually just upset because of something that happened outside of work?
      At the end of the day, you know your friend well, and if something is bothering them or making their life hard, whether it’s work-related or not, you usually know something is off. Don’t ignore that instinct or sweep issues under the rug out of fear of ruffling feathers. It’ll only affect your work and friendship negatively.
      Don’t let their work drama become your work drama
      No matter where you work, how many people you work with, or how strong your company culture is, there is always a little bit of work drama circulating. Not everyone is going to work well together or like each other—and that’s OK! However, taking sides or getting in the middle of a problem your friend might be having in the workplace is never a good idea.

      Be mindful to not let your personal loyalty interfere with your other relationships in the workplace.

      For example, if your friend is upset with a colleague you both interact with about something that happened during a meeting (let’s say they shot down her idea and talked down to her), she will probably march right over to your desk (or slack call you) post-meeting to vent about it. As a friend, you should listen to them. But as a fellow colleague, you should not get involved or let that affect your working relationship with said colleague. Even if you want to protect your friend and stick up for them, it’s best to stay out of it. You can’t let their work drama become yours (and vice versa).
      Now, this doesn’t mean you can’t give them advice on the situation or support them if they’re angry or upset. You just need to be mindful to not let your personal loyalty interfere with your other relationships in the workplace (or your professional reputation). And remember, this goes both ways.
      Leverage each other’s strengths
      My best friend is the yin to my yang. At work, I dream big, and she zeroes in on the details. With this in mind, recognizing what each of us brings to the table and capitalizing on our individual strengths helps fuel our joint goals. Whether you work together on projects all the time at work or you’re on separate teams in the same building, count on each other for support and share your strengths! For example, let’s say you’re better with the vision rather than the details, but you really need help nailing down a timeline for a project. You should look to your friend, who is more numbers-driven, to help you nail down the logistics!
      For business owners like us, this is especially beneficial, but there are countless ways you can play off of each other’s strengths in the workplace. Ask them questions, go to them for advice in areas they excel in and could help you with, and ask if they see any areas where you could be better or develop new skills. Asking a friend where you could improve is much less intimidating than asking a higher-up. Plus, they’re more likely to give you tough love when you need it. No matter your working relationship, identifying each other’s strengths and leaning on one another in the workplace can be incredibly rewarding.
      Don’t compare or compete
      It’s hard to watch a co-worker get an opportunity you wanted (like a promotion or a client), but it’s even harder when that co-worker is your close friend. Sure, you’re happy for them, but celebrating their big win stings a little. Whether you’ve experienced this already or not, know that you’re not a bad person if you’re not *so excited* for them. But with that said, you do have to be careful not to compare yourself to them. Just like there will be areas where you excel a little more, there will be areas that they exceed in, too. That’s just a part of life!
      Comparison and competition, inside and outside of the workplace, can lead to envy and resentment, which are all things that can be detrimental to your personal relationship. If this happens to you, odds are that your friend feels a little weird knowing you were hoping for the same win. Find it in you to truly congratulate them and set your sights on your next big thing. And if the roles are reversed, be understanding if they dip out of your celebratory happy hour a little early. Your job, as friends, is to root for each other, so don’t get caught up in who has the “upper hand” in the workplace.

      Your job, as friends, is to root for each other, so don’t get caught up in who has the “upper hand” in the workplace.

      Trust each other
      Zig Ziglar said it best when he said, “If people like you, they will listen to you. But if people trust you, they will do business with you.” In a cutthroat world, knowing someone’s always in your corner is the ultimate power-up, especially for women. When working with friends, respect, empathy, transparency, understanding, and trust are vital. These are the pillars you’ll lean on when things get tough. Thankfully, friendships have these as a foundation already, so bringing them into the workplace can only benefit you both.
      To benefit from these things at work, be open about your thoughts, feelings, and expectations to prevent misunderstandings and reinforce trust. For example, if you feel like your friend hasn’t been prioritizing certain projects at work and it’s putting more on your plate, you need to be honest about that with them. Or, if you are feeling burnt out, let them know. They might be able to help you develop better productivity habits. Opening this door of communication will make you both less likely to think the other is slacking off or disrespecting your time, especially if you’re working on a shared goal.
      Final thoughts
      Working with friends requires a blend of tough love, boundaries, and a whole lot of trust. While we’re not always perfect at doing these things, my best friend and I have been able to not just survive the workplace but thrive, too. Whether you’re building an empire or your desks are next to each other at a start-up, continue to be intentional and prioritize both your working relationship and personal relationship. Sometimes, they will overlap—but as long as you respect each other, you can become even closer and grow in your careers. And what’s better than reaching your goals and following your dreams alongside your friends? The hard work, crazy moments, tough talks, emotional rollercoasters, and everything in between are all worth it. More

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      Everything You Need To Move Your WFH Days Onto the Patio

      by

      With remote work still thriving on the job scene, many of us find ourselves going about our work day in the comfort of our own homes. But, sometimes, the spaces we find ourselves in for day-to-day tasks make it hard to separate work and relaxation. It’s easy to fall into the habit of working from your comfortable couch or bedroom, but these spaces do not do your productivity any justice and can deter you from your best work. Being inside all day can also have detrimental effects and can stop you from getting your necessary daily dose of Vitamin D.
      By optimizing your workspace to something designed intentionally for you and your work day, you can increase your productivity and focus. And weather permitting, working from outside might be the best way to keep you focused and enjoying the work day a little more. Here are some of our favorite pieces to create the perfect Work-From-Outside setup:

      This 24-ounce stainless steel tumbler will keep your drink cool and you hydrated no matter the temperature outside.

      Bucket hat girlies, this is the perfect work-from-outside hat. It features a wide brim to keep your face and the back of your neck protected from the sun all day long.

      This lap desk fits most any computer size and also includes a power bank and charging cable, which can keep you from trying to find an outdoor outlet or a ridiculously long extension cord.

      Amazon | danpinera

      This green side table adds a fun pop of color for your setup. It’s also anti-rust and waterproof, so you can leave it outside no matter the weather.

      Amazon | F FORITO

      This anti-glare and anti-blue light screen protector is a must-have when working in direct sunlight. It will keep your eyes protected and your screen visible so that you can actually use your laptop in the sun.

      Amazon | Big Joe

      This round cushioned ottoman is the ultimate footrest, keeping you comfy while you lounge and work in the sun.

      Citronella

      This five-wick candle really brings the space together and will keep you feeling cozy and comfortable in the outdoor setting. Bonus: It features citronella, so it will keep the bugs at bay while you enjoy the sun.

      Beachcrest Home

      These light wood cushioned chairs are sturdy and comfortable, perfect for sitting outside for a few hours while you type away on your laptop. Place your beverage of choice and some snacks on the small side table and this setup has almost everything you need.

      Play your lo-fi work playlist (or Taylor Swift album of choice) outside with this portable bluetooth speaker. Whether you’re trying to capture all the summer vibes or simply need a relaxing backtrack while you focus, you’ll love the sound quality of this little speaker.

      Amazon | Abrotain

      Small space? That’s no problem with this patio shade cover. It offers privacy while shading you from the sun, perfect for apartment balconies or small decks.

      Amazon | Veradek

      Keep your snacks and drinks cool and protected in this outdoor cooler that doubles as a side table. 2-in-1? Yes, please.

      World Market

      This floor mat will help bring your work from outside space to life and make it a place where you enjoy working!

      Amazon | KEVLANG

      This acrylic tray is perfect for holding any of your day-to-day necessities, but could even be filled with your favorite snacks and drinks to keep you energized throughout the day.

      Anthropologie

      This denim baseball cap is perfect to keep the sun and hair out of your face and is casual enough to add to any outfit you have on during your work-from-outside days!

      Arlmont & Co.

      Yes, you’re working, but who says you can’t relax while doing so? This functional outdoor daybed features detachable footrests that can also be used as a side-table for customizable use.

      Amazon | YPRNM

      This lap desk is great if you are looking for something more sturdy, with standing legs on both sides. The desk splits into an adjustable laptop tray and a small side table tray, perfect for your favorite drink or a small notebook!

      Amazon | Thermacell

      Nothing can ruin a day outdoors quite like bugs, and we haven’t forgotten that. This mosquito repellent will keep the bugs away and let you work outside in peace.

      Amazon | Sweetfull

      This portable misting fan will help keep you cool and refreshed on those hot days, and works great to keep you awake and productive!

      This SPF 45 face mist is a necessity for being outside on a sunny day. It keeps your skin protected and hydrated throughout your work day!

      Hampton Bay

      This patio umbrella is a major addition to creating this workspace, allowing you to bathe in the warm sun, but also retreat to the shade as much as you’d like to during the day.

      Amazon | Javasok

      This cup sleeve is perfect for those who need a quick coffee run before work. It will keep all the condensation from your cup away from your electronics or paper and keep your hand from getting cold as well!

      Keep your lips hydrated with this editor-favorite lip oil. It also includes SPF 30, so not only will your lips feel great, but they’ll also be protected. More

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      This Has to Stop: 7 Ways to Finally Overcome PTO Guilt

      by

      To say that women feel guilty for taking time off is the understatement of the century. We’re all familiar with the toxicity of hustle culture, but actually acknowledging the importance of rest, taking well-earned PTO, and not feeling bad about it is about as foreign a concept as you can get. Our hours collect dust, or worse, expire because they’re unused, and we’re left with a big helping of burnout.
      But what causes this guilt anyway? Who is benefitting from us not taking time off work? Because it sure as hell isn’t us. So what’s the hold-up? Taking time off is non-negotiable, as it’s vital for your mental health and well-being. Not to mention, PTO is meant to be used. With this confusion in mind, we investigated what causes PTO-induced guilt and how to finally overcome it. Ahead, the cure:
      Why do we feel guilty for taking PTO?
      Perhaps the biggest reason we feel guilty for taking time off is because we’ve been taught it’s something to be ashamed of. For years now, we’ve watched celebrities and influencers praise “the grind” by showcasing their daily routines. Wake up at 5 a.m., work out, cold plunge, check emails, work through lunch, head to a networking event, and work on a side hustle project before finally getting to bed by midnight. While we know this is unsustainable because you need downtime, we’ve been programmed to believe a round-the-clock hustle is the only way to win.
      This message has only been amplified by how reachable we all are in this day and age; smartphones and technology have made checking our emails and replying to Slack messages too easy. And since our bosses and colleagues can contact us no matter what time or day it is, we’ve come to believe that being more available and doing more is the only way to achieve anything.

      We’ve come to believe that being more available and doing more is the only way to achieve anything.

      Finally, and arguably worst of all, there’s the FOMO on opportunities if you’re “off the grid” or even clocked out. Nothing’s scarier than the idea of falling behind. Plus, the last thing anyone wants is to be perceived as a woman who isn’t willing to do whatever it takes to reach her goals.
      All of this is to say that employees, especially women, feel like they can’t take time off. God forbid we don’t solve someone’s 7 p.m. roadblock until 8 a.m. The whole place might go up in smoke, your career might suffer, and it would be all your fault, right?! Wrong. It’s time to rewrite this narrative.
      7 ways to overcome PTO guilt
      1. Shift your perspective
      Society glorifies maximizing productivity 24/7, but working non-stop only leads to burnout. We all know your work ultimately suffers because of that. So, instead of feeling guilty for using PTO, shift your mindset to focus on the health benefits of it. Ironically, giving yourself time to recharge will boost your productivity more than working around the clock ever could. Plus, time off can also reduce stress and improve your mental health and well-being—all of which will improve your work performance in the long run.
      2. Plan ahead
      Changing gears from work mode to vacation mode isn’t always easy, but planning ahead can help immensely. Not only does this allow you to give your colleagues and boss a heads-up that you’ll be out of the office, but you’ll have more time to wrap up tasks before you log off. This might mean delegating tasks, turning in assignments early, cleaning out your inbox, or sending out a company-wide message reminding everyone you’ll be OOO soon.
      Knowing everything’s taken care of because you prepared ahead of time will make it easier to put away work-related thoughts while you’re away and make you feel less guilty for being away from work. Plus, it always helps to have something to look forward to. Seeing “PTO” on your calendar for a few weeks will motivate you to keep your head down on work before your well-deserved break—regardless of whether you’re going on a getaway or relaxing at home.

      Giving yourself time to recharge will boost your productivity more than working around the clock ever could.

      3. Visualize your time away
      Similar to how planning in advance can be beneficial, visualizing your time away can also help you get into the vacation mindset. Set aside some time to daydream about what you’ll do during your time off. Think about which places you’ll scope out, whether or not you’ll catch up with friends, consider DIY projects you’ll tackle, or curate a dreamy travel wardrobe. Imagining yourself on vacation is going to make it easier to disconnect from work. For once, you won’t think twice about logging off. PTO guilt? The vacation version of you doesn’t know her.
      4. Repeat affirmations
      Since guilt is an internalized, self-conscious feeling that can manifest after feeling like you’ve failed to do something, enlisting the help of vacation affirmations can be beneficial. Affirmations can shift your mindset and help you look at something in a new light. If you’re worried about how taking time off will impact your career, repeat these vacation affirmations to change the way you view and use valuable PTO:

      My mind and body are prepared and ready to relax.
      I deserve a break.
      It’s OK to take time off.
      I will use this time off to recharge and come back better.
      Self-care is non-negotiable.
      I have earned this PTO, and I deserve to enjoy it.
      Everything at work is taken care of.
      I am invaluable to my team, and I’ve earned time away.

      5. Remember that PTO is a benefit that’s meant to be used
      When it comes down to it, if PTO wasn’t important, it wouldn’t be there. After all, companies and bosses aren’t in the habit of handing out perks and compensation for no reason. Plus, we don’t feel guilty for taking advantage of other benefits, like holidays and health insurance. So, the next time you find yourself feeling guilty for taking time off, remember that PTO is a benefit that’s meant to be used. It’s there because it can help you rest, recharge, and come back to work better than ever. Since you accrue PTO days from your hard work, you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

      Since you accrue PTO days from your hard work, you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

      6. Create a return plan
      Stepping away from the grind is one thing—returning to it is another completely. Similar to the Sunday scaries, you might feel some anxiety about going back to work near the end of your PTO—this is natural! However, instead of letting that fear overwhelm you and prevent you from taking much-deserved time off, create a return plan before your PTO begins. This will help curb that anxiety and stress over returning to work and allow you to enjoy your break.
      Chances are, you’re going to miss some things while you’re away, and that’s OK! To avoid walking back into chaos, though, ask your boss or a friendly co-worker if they’d be willing to email you the day before your return to get you up to speed on what happened while you were gone. Likewise, be sure to go over your work calendar for the week the day before as well to see what’s on the agenda. Doing these things will give you an idea of what you’re walking back into and help curb some of those anxious feelings about going back.
      7. Evaluate your boundaries
      Most of us admittedly have a hard time clocking out of work; we answer emails after hours, squeeze in extra work on the weekends, and take on more when our workload is already full. While there’s nothing wrong with working hard, this lack of boundaries only feeds into the narrative that we need to be on at all times. And, of course, makes us feel guilty for taking time off.
      If overworking is something you often find yourself doing, it might be time to evaluate your boundaries with your job. Never giving yourself a much-needed break will only leave you burnt out, unproductive, and underperforming. Instead, prioritize work-life balance by establishing boundaries and letting yourself enjoy your time off. Doing this will shift your mindset and, in turn, alleviate any guilt you might have over using your PTO. More