3 Tips To Manage A Work-Life Balance As A Momtrepreneur

Motherhood is universally known as one of the most difficult jobs in the world, and when you mix that with entrepreneurship, a whole new myriad of challenges are born. Both jobs are all-consuming and unpredictable, throwing off your work-life balance. Add to that the internalized (mom & entrepreneur) guilt for pushing everything not urgent to the back burner, difficulty asking for support, feeling like you have to be everything to everyone all at once, and having no time left to take care of yourself. For female entrepreneurs who are mothers, aka momtrepreneurs, trying to do “it all” can sometimes feel like an unwinnable, work-life, balancing act.

A lopsided work-life balance can have a negative impact on your personal life, professional life, and on your mental and physical health. The importance of cultivating a work-life balance is echoed by countless female CEOs, take these wise words from Bumble’s Whitney Wolfe Herd for example. “It’s incredibly important, regardless of how tired, or busy, or overloaded you are in your day-to-day; you must take time to call your grandparents, or call an old friend, or take an afternoon off to spend time with your parents.” 

Are you a momtrepreneur struggling to manage your work-life balance? Here are three tips to help manage and sustain a work-life balance. Bring your balancing act to an equilibrium, which will thus increase your productivity and happiness.

1. Organize

Most things regarding our children and our business are not in our control. Taking control of controllable things allows a momtrepreneur to have agency, which releases stress and provides feelings of empowerment and accomplishment. The best way to take control is to be hyper-organized. 

Every evening before bed, create a detailed daily plan for the next day. Incorporate a work-life balance into your plan so the following day begins with a balanced intention. Next, add all your tasks to your calendar (Yes, all of them!), from conference calls to workouts, and even self-care. When time is physically blocked out on your calendar, you will more likely stick to a well-timed schedule. This will help your day flow smoothly and allow you to execute each task. 

2. Ask for help and delegate

While it can be difficult to relinquish control over certain aspects of your life, help from a colleague, partner, or friend can be an immeasurable asset to re-configure your work-life balance. The most successful momtrepreneurs know that asking for help and delegating tasks makes them stronger at both jobs. Sara Blakely, billionaire Spanx founder and CEO, is happy to accept help when she needs it. Blakely relies on her assistant to be her right-hand man. “…She can solve and figure out anything. She has actually gotten my child a passport and gotten him out of the country without being the parent. I don’t know how she does it,” Sara shared.

Never feel guilty about utilizing help if you can afford it. Such as asking a parent to extend your child’s playdate to get more work done, or using an app to order groceries. That is perfectly fine! While being a mom and an entrepreneur can feel lonely at times, no one truly does it all alone. It takes a village and asking yours for help can guide you to a greater work-life balance.

3. Practice severance

The new Apple TV show ("Severance") may a bit extreme, but it’s on to something. The series examines the topic of a complete separation of your work life from your personal life. When managing your work-life balance, it’s essential to separate the two and stay in the present moment. Obsessing about work while you’re in mom-mode, and vice-versa, guarantees that your attention will be elsewhere. You have to draw the line somewhere because this makes you more prone to mistakes at work, and mentally absent during important family moments.

It’s easier said then done when thinking multi-tasking while being present will make things better. A mindfulness or meditation practice is a great way to cultivate the art of presence and bring moderation to your work-life balance.  

Written by Abby Stern

Why I Removed the Phrase “I Don’t Have Time” From My Life

Photo: ColorJoy Stock

“I don’t have time.” It’s a simple phrase you have probably thrown out to your friends, significant other, or kids, particularly if you feel as if the elusiveness of time is slipping through your fingers.

But when you sit back and reflect on the statement, what are you really saying? More importantly, consider who you are saying it to, and what it communicates to them. What you are really saying is that your time is being preoccupied with something else. Something your brain has told you is much more important.

We have to stop being victims of time and instead take ownership. The words you tell yourself matter. And if you are telling yourself (and others around you) that you don’t have time, you may just begin believing it. 

Once I conscientiously began removing that phrase “I don’t have time” from my everyday conversation, time seemed to loosen its controlling grip over me. I was no longer the victim, I was the one in power.

It’s not time management you need.

As someone who has spent years teaching productivity, I have come to this simple conclusion: time management does not exist. You cannot manage time. It is not an angry three-year-old throwing a tantrum in the middle of the grocery store that you can swiftly march out to the car. 

No, you cannot manage time (spoken by someone who personally tried to for years), BUT you can manage your activities. We can manage how we individually choose to spend our time. With all the inequalities of wealth in our world, time is not one of them. Time is equally doled out to each of us and it is up to us to decide how to use it.

To determine how we want to choose our time, allow me to break down the four different ways one can spend their time, as well as the importance of each for your productivity.

1. Resting

Resting may seem like a strange place to start but in reality, it is by far the most important if we desire to achieve the success we crave as human beings. Our society mistakenly believes that if we just follow the “hustle mantra” we will find success, so we are afraid to stop moving.

But our brain requires periods of rest. Healthy adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Acknowledge it, accept it, and move on. Sleep is non-negotiable. In fact, according to Tom Rath’s book, “Eat, Move, Sleep: Why Small Choices Make a Big Difference,” your quality of work can drop down as much as 30% when you are not getting an adequate amount of sleep. 

What do periods of resting look like? Well, we just covered sleep, but it can also include meditation, closing your eyes and taking a break away from the computer, or sitting outside in nature for a few minutes. The key to your resting periods is they should feel renewing and restorative, otherwise, it's not rest!

2. Doing

We know our day is already filled with doing, but what exactly is it we are doing? And are we using our time the way we really want?

When we use the phrase “I don’t have time” what we’re really doing is lying to ourselves. We are simply choosing to not prioritize whatever it is that truly needs the space. For me, I have started using other phrases that show intention, like, “I don’t want to give this my time right now,” or, “That’s not a priority for me at the moment.” 

I like these subtle changes to the words because what they do is remind me that I am in control of my choices. Time doesn’t demand how I spend it. I do.

One important caveat to “doing” that must be discussed is that sometimes we have trouble prioritizing the tasks we want to do for ourselves because we are so busy “doing” for everyone else in our lives (I imagine many of the women reading this are nodding their heads right now). When it comes to doing, please remember that you do not have to do it all, and you do not always have to sacrifice time on your tasks for the sake of others. 

3. Distracting

Personally, I think we have the wrong idea around the concept of “quitting.” Quitting is not an end, rather it is the first step in refocusing and redefining your life. When we give ourselves permission to let go of the things that no longer serve us, we gain the opportunity to pursue what is aligned with our purpose.

Many of you reading this may assume I am about to lecture you about removing distractions from your day, but that’s not how I roll. Plot twist: we actually need some distractions in our day!

A lot of people believe if they are not spending their time hustling towards some tangible goal, then they are not doing anything worthwhile. That could not be more false! Play is essential for our brains but we tend to undervalue it because it seems so silly next to our serious life or professional goals. What’s ironic though is that when we increase play, give ourselves time to actually enjoy time, we become more productive. When more frequent play is incorporated into our days we see dramatic increases in creativity, attention, and performance.

For those of you asking, “But, Tanya, how do we determine between good and bad distractions?” Here’s my answer: it is entirely up to you to decide. And before you go panicking, know that the deciding factor is so incredibly simple. After indulging in the distraction stop and ask yourself, “How do I feel after I finish this?” Is your answer along the lines of, “That lifted my mood and was exactly what I needed,” or is it more so, “I feel worse off than I did before.” Therein lies the answer.

4. Thinking

We have a tendency to bind our feelings of self-worth tightly with our daily achievements. We need to loosen these knots because the problem with this is it doesn’t take into consideration the important time we’ve spent thinking.

Every day we have over 6,200 thoughts, which, roughly calculated, means we have about four new thoughts every single minute! The big question though is what are we thinking about?

We spend an excessive amount of time thinking about the things that don’t require it: the worrying and stress, tweaking and reworking of tasks and projects that don’t even need it. We spend a disproportionate amount of time thinking about the minutiae, the unimportant. 

You may have noticed a recurring theme woven throughout this article: it’s not the action that matters, it is the intention behind it. We don’t want to just find ourselves doing and thinking. We want to choose to think and do what’s most important. With that, you may just unpack an extraordinary life for yourself that you never knew could be.

“If you are telling yourself (and others around you) that you don’t have time, you may just begin believing it.”

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

About the author: Tanya Dalton is a best-selling author, speaker, and nationally recognized productivity expert. Tanya serves as a growth strategist for female leaders. Her highly anticipated second book, On Purpose: The Busy Woman’s Guide to an Extraordinary Life of Meaning and Success, will be on sale wherever books are sold on October 12, 2021. Tanya is also the founder and CEO of inkWELL Press Productivity Co. a multi-million dollar company providing tools that work as a catalyst in helping women do less while achieving maximum success.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carly, Senior Director, Marketing

Skin Type: Sensitive

Skincare Concerns: Pores, Fine Links, Wrinkles

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

Valerie, Senior Director, Partnerships & Sales

Skin Type: Combo, Sensitive/Acne Prone  

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

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

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

Genesis, Talent Coordinator

Skin Type: Combo, Dry/Oily T-zone

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

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

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The Definitive Guide to Making Time for Self-Care

Photo: Smith House Photo

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

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

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

Morning

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

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

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

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

Afternoon

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

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

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

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

Evening

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Wordaful Founder Liz Hernandez Prioritizes Her Mental Wellness While Working From Home

Photo: Johanna Brinckman

Welcome to our editorial series A Day in the Life where we ask successful women we admire to share the daily minutiae of their professional lives, from the rituals that set them up for success to their evening wind-down routines. This month, we sat down with Liz Hernandez, creator of the innovative storytelling platform WORDAFUL. Her secrets to success? Keeping a detailed daily schedule, prioritizing mental health breaks, and going to bed before 10 PM. Read up on her WFH tips below.

Tell us a bit about WORDAFUL. What inspired you to create a  platform focused on the importance of how we communicate with others and ourselves?  

I was inspired by the need for connection. I spent ten years on morning radio engaging with listeners through storytelling. It’s a special format because you can’t see each other and you’re relating purely through words and emotions. Sharing my vulnerabilities was a catalyst for listeners to call and share their same experiences. The connection was powerful.  

Once I left radio and started in television, I missed that human interaction. At the same time, I had a strong desire to make a positive impact in my community. I understood the importance of self-talk and how the words we choose can shape our lives. Any negative messaging we grew up with can be overridden and replaced with encouraging words.  

WORDAFUL launched as a passionate project shortly after my mother lost 90 percent of her speech as a result of Alzheimer’s. The gift of communicating is often taken for granted. When my mom lost her ability to use her words, I wanted to be responsible with mine.  

Are you a night owl or a morning person? When do you do your most important work and why?  

I’m a morning person. The most important work I do is writing. I’ve learned to write in the morning when my mind is fresh and I’m firing on all cylinders. However, when inspiration strikes at night, I have to go to the computer and get it down on the page. 

What time do you get up, and what’s the first thing you do upon waking?  

I wake up around 6 AM. As soon as I open my eyes, I say “thank you” to my Creator. Then it’s coffee accompanied by gratitude journaling.  

What does your morning, pre-work routine look like?  

I take a quick glance at my emails. If there’s nothing urgent, I head out for a morning walk with my french bulldog, Albondiga. Breathing fresh air and moving my body is a great mood and energy booster before I  start work.  

Mark Twain said, “Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and  nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.” What’s the first thing you do when you get to your desk?  

I light a scented candle. It makes my workspace more inviting and it’s a nice way to do self-care. Then I open up my planner, review my to-do list and prioritize my schedule.

What are you working on this week?  

I’m currently writing new WORDAFUL episodes. I’m scheduling the rollout of our new tees and sweatshirts and prepping for the launch of our Affirmation Cards for Kids! 

Photo: Johanna Brinckman

What’s been the most rewarding part of running your business? The most challenging?  

The most rewarding part of running this company is the community that is being created and the support it’s giving people. Before the pandemic, we held a monthly event for women to gather, connect and share their stories. They walked in as strangers and left as friends. It was amazing to watch these WORDAFUL Women events grow across the country as well. Last year, we launched an online membership where we could all meet and continue the conversations. It has been a place of comfort, growth, and healing.  

The most challenging part is wearing all the hats from creative, marketing, finances, scheduling, and so on. I am very fortunate to have two women on my team whose efforts and energy are equilivant to a team of ten.  

Do you ever reach inbox zero? How do you handle the constant influx of inquiries and communication founders are so familiar with?  

I feel fortunate that most days my inbox doesn’t feel overwhelming. My team does a great job of filtering emails by their degree of importance or urgency. Then, I schedule time on my to-do list to send replies.  

What is your go-to work lunch?  

Salmon over salad. If I’m craving more carbs, I’ll add in some rice. Followed by espresso, of course. 

What advice do you have for balancing the minutiae of day-to-day tasks with big-picture planning?  

Create a detailed daily schedule with your most important priority on top and the steps that are required to move you towards your goal. I’ve learned that if it’s not in your schedule, it’s not going to happen. 

What are some work habits that help you stay healthy, productive, and on track to reach your goals?  

I take my mental wellness seriously. Staying committed to daily self-care rituals is important to me so I start each day with gratitude journaling. Then, I take a break midday to mediate for 30 minutes. Both of these exercises help me to remember my “why” in pursuing my goals.  

Any favorite apps you use regularly?  

Instagram is what I use most. It allows me to stay connected to friends and our online community. I also love Duolingo, a language app that keeps me on top of my Spanish. 

What are you reading/watching/listening to right now to help you wind down at the end of the day?  

I’m listening to early episodes of “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” I love how she used her platform as a classroom to teach us about ourselves and the importance of sharing our stories. She says a powerful line in the  beginning of the podcast: “Every single person you ever will meet  shares that common desire, they want to know, do you see me, do you  hear me, does what I say mean anything to you?” It inspires me every time I hear her say it.  

When do you go to bed? What’s your “optimal” number of sleep hours?  

I go to bed around 9:30 PM. When I get 8 hours of sleep I perform my best.  

What’s the most rewarding part of your day?  

I really cherish going on my daily walk. I love being outside in nature, listening to good music, and playing with my dog.

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How This Wellness Brand Founder Finds Work-Life Balance Despite a Constant Influx of Emails

Photo: Courtesy of Trinity Mouzon Wofford

Welcome to our monthly editorial series A Day in the Life where we ask successful women we admire to share the daily minutiae of their professional lives, from the rituals that set them up for success to their evening wind-down routines. This month, we sat down with Trinity Mouzon Wofford, co-founder and CEO of the wellness brand Golde. Read below to learn how she manages her overflowing inbox, stays focused, and finds the time to take daily walks around her neighborhood.

Tell us a bit about Golde and what inspired you to launch your business. What whitespace did you see in the market? What need did you want to fill? 

Golde was inspired by my own experiences as a consumer in wellness. I was feeling caught between the crunchy granola stuff I’d grown up with and this next wave of offerings that felt really prestige. I was centered on this idea of making superfoods easier and more accessible for the next generation. 

Are you a night owl or a morning person? When do you do your most important work and why? 

I’m a total morning person. I definitely prioritize anything important before noon because that’s when I’m at my sharpest. That being said, I also always make time for something non-work-related in the mornings, too, like going for a walk around the neighborhood or reading for 30 minutes. I think it’s important to bring your “best self” to work and play.

What time do you get up? What’s the first thing you do upon waking? 

I usually get up with the sun. Now that we’re edging up on springtime that’s usually around 5-6 am. First things first, I drink a tall glass of water to rehydrate!

Mark Twain said, “Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.” What’s the first thing you do when you get to your desk and start your workday? 

Check my inbox, which sometimes feels like eating a live frog! Usually, I just start by triaging to see if there’s anything urgent and get a good sense of anything else I need to work my way through for the rest of the day.

What are you working on this week? 

We have a new product launching at the end of this month (!!), so a big chunk of my focus has been making sure that everything is good to go there. I’m putting together fact sheets for the team, building the marketing strategy for the launch, and taste testing a couple of fun recipes. 

What’s been the most rewarding part of running Golde? The most challenging? 

The most rewarding part of running a business is the relationships—with my team, our community, and my partner and co-founder. It’s been so cool to see this business really blossom into an ecosystem. The most challenging part is continually reevaluating how to get everything done without blowing through a sense of work-life balance. I’m constantly reminding myself that it’s okay to not be able to get to absolutely everything.

Photo: Courtesy of Trinity Mouzon Wofford

Do you ever reach inbox zero? How do you handle the constant influx of inquiries and communication CEOs are so familiar with? 

I aspire to, but no. My inbox is flooded daily with everything under the sun. I accept that I am human, not perfect. 

What is your go-to work lunch? 

My partner, Issey, puts something together for us every day. We usually batch cook a bunch of veggies and then throw that together at lunchtime. 

What advice do you have for balancing the minutiae of day-to-day tasks with big-picture planning? 

I allocate Mondays to be meeting-free so that I have time to do focused, quiet work. I try for Wednesdays to also be meeting-free, but that’s a harder one to pull off! 

What are some work habits that help you stay healthy, productive, and on track to reach your goals? 

I just took my work email off my iPhone, which has been fun. I think it’s important to have clearly delineated working hours and to do something else outside of that time frame. From 8:30 to 6:30 I’m all in, but outside of that, I make time for the rest of my life.

Any favorite apps you use regularly? 

I live by Superhuman for keeping my inbox in good shape. Asana is our team’s productivity tool.

What are you reading, watching, or listening to right now to help you wind down at the end of the day? 

Right now I’m educating myself a ton on gardening. While we’re upstate we’re going to be planting a bunch, so I’ve been reading books and even watching a couple of shows to learn all of the tricks of the trade.

When do you go to bed? What’s your optimal number of sleep hours? 

I’m usually in bed by 9:30 pm and asleep by 10:30 pm, so I think that ends up being around 8 hours!

What’s the most rewarding part of your day? 

I really love the time I have to myself in the early morning before anyone else is awake. It doesn’t last long, but in quarantine, that’s about all the serenity you can ask for!

Photo: Courtesy of Golde

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My Business Wouldn't Exist If I Hadn't Been Diagnosed With Breast Cancer

Photo: Courtesy of Monica Ruffo

We often make ourselves smaller than we are because it somehow feels safer. Maybe we’re afraid of being considered too ambitious or too confident. Maybe being strong doesn’t fit into a social construct of who we think we should be. Or maybe we’ve been belittled or not taken seriously in the past and playing small somehow feels right. Whatever the reason, can you imagine what a better place the world would be if we all came out from hiding and played to our full strength instead of hiding behind it? 

A few years ago, I underwent treatment for an aggressive form of breast cancer. From the moment I heard the diagnosis—that very scary “C” word—I decided that it would not crush me, that I would thrive through the treatment, and that something extraordinary would come of it. I advocated for myself every step of the way and got second and third opinions for every option. I even researched a treatment that allowed me to keep all my hair through all 12 rounds of chemotherapy. I advocated to make this treatment available to myself, and then, eventually, for others at the hospital where I was treated.

This made a huge difference in my journey with cancer and allowed me to maintain some form of normalcy for myself and for my children. It also allowed me to keep my cancer private as I continued to work throughout those 18 months without telling anyone that I was sick. I also insisted on undergoing over 100 high-dose vitamin C infusions during that same time period, which I’m convinced helped me mitigate the side effects of both the chemo and the radiation. This too, I had to advocate for. 

During this time, I started questioning everything that I was putting into my body, which is when I discovered that I couldn’t find 100% plant-based clean supplements or remedies. Ultimately, something extraordinary did come out of my breast cancer as Well Told Health was born out of that revelation.

Perhaps, because I felt backed into a corner at that time and had no choice but to step up, I tapped into my deepest strength. I discovered a well of inner power and resilience that I didn’t know I had. But the truth of it is that the inner power and resilience were always there, they were just concealed behind carefully constructed walls I had built around myself. While I’ve had many hurdles to overcome and triumphs to be proud of before that, it took my breast cancer journey for me to finally be willing to harness my strength and nurture it, and especially, to use it and love myself for it. 

That was several years ago, and the incredible irony of embracing my strength is that it has made me feel so much more vulnerable today than I have ever felt before.

Yes, this has been very scary at times. But I think we often avoid tapping into our full strength because if we don’t put it all on the line, then technically, we can’t really fail, and perhaps—even more critically—we can’t get hurt. It’s hard work, but I no longer want to let myself hide inside a smaller version of myself.  As Marianne Williamson famously said, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.”

Every day, I now work on putting all of myself out there, stepping outside of my comfort zone, voicing my opinions, and using every inner tool at my disposal. I won’t lie, it’s hard. And there’s no secret formula.

Some days, I feel like I truly have a magic wand because of it. Other days, I feel like I can’t seem to make things happen. But I have learned to take it in stride, let things go, and forgive myself through daily meditation and expressions of gratitude for everything around me including myself. That last part has been a real eye-opener, as being grateful for myself, my own gifts, and (the hardest of all) forgiving myself, were not things I had really considered before. The simple practice of daily self-gratitude and forgiveness has had a huge impact on my trajectory.

Today, I am determined to let my light shine through and not let anyone else decide what I can and can’t do or who I am. I will no longer live in fear of my strength. I’ll leave the fear of my strength to others. 

“The incredible irony of embracing my strength is that it has made me feel so much more vulnerable today than I have ever felt before.”

Monica Ruffo, Founder of Well Told Health

About the Author: Monica Ruffo is a serial entrepreneur and award-winning leader with a long-standing passion for health and wellness. Unable to find 100% clean supplements after being diagnosed with breast cancer, Monica set out to create a modern source for natural supplements made with organic botanicals and nothing else.

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How 5 Women Ditched Perfection to Embrace Their Own Skinversity

We’ve all felt the pressure of perfection. But according to some studies, this sentiment is mostly felt by women. Sound familiar? A U.S. survey found that women (more than men) felt they “did not meet their own high standards with family and workplace commitments.” And in a 2011 survey, half of the female managers, compared with fewer than a third of the male ones, reported self-doubt in their performance. 

But these insecurities don’t stop with our achievements, they also apply to our appearance. Of the 2000 adults surveyed, 9% of men considered themselves handsome compared to just 2% of women who thought they were beautiful. This needs to end. That’s why we partnered with the clean, goat-milk skincare line, Beekman 1802 and their mission to embrace your Skinversity and cultivate a beautiful life.

Watch the video below to learn more about their mission and why loving your skin is always in. Because it’s not about how your skin looks to others, it’s about how your skin feels to you.

Ahead, we asked five women how they’re ditching perfection to embrace their own Skinversity and encouraging others to do the same. Join the movement and share how you #EmbraceSkinversity by tagging your photo or story on Instagram with @beekman1802 and #embraceskinversity.

“

Your skin, dark circle, pimples, blemishes will never fully disappear so instead of refusing them, you might as well accept and love them just as much as you do the ‘perfect’ parts of you”

Rahel Brhane, Content Creator

On the pressure of perfection…

In the social media space, there is a lot of pressure to look perfect all the time. When I first started creating content, I wouldn’t record myself without makeup or a filter to hide my imperfections because I was scared of what people might have to say about my skin. After three years in this space, I came to the conclusion that you can’t hate something about yourself you will live with forever.

Your skin, dark circle, pimples, blemishes will never fully disappear so instead of refusing them, you might as well accept and love them just as much as you do the “perfect” parts of you. Be kind to yourself every day and see how your overall wellbeing changes instantly.

On the person who has encouraged her inner confidence…

My mother is my biggest inspiration when it comes to taking care of myself. She would always make sure we see the good in any situation and stay positive. She was also the first person to show me that taking care of your skin is just as important as taking care of your soul. Without feeling good outside you can never feel fully great within. It goes hand in hand.

On how skincare plays a role in how she feels about herself…

I start my day with time to myself. I take care of my skin, have my coffee and focus on my thoughts before starting to work on my brand. I take this time very seriously as I feel so much fulfillment by knowing I take care of myself every day.

On her top three confidence-boosting tips…

• Write down what you are thankful for and you will immediately see that there is so much to be happy about.

• Manifesting is real. If you focus on negativity, more negativity will enter your life so make sure to think positively to attract more of that instead. 

• Treat yourself to a nice meal or a drink and spend time alone. You will feel so empowered that despite in a lot of people's minds being alone= loneliness, you're perfectly fine and enough just by yourself. This is my ultimate go-to for a confidence boost.

“Despite the outside noise, I am always trying to embrace the skin I have and accept all the aspects that make me unique like my rosacea and freckles.”

Nazira Sacasa, Blogger and Body Acceptance Advocate

On Feeling the Pressure of Perfection…

Yes, I have definitely felt the pressure for perfection. There is constant messaging around us that tells us there is something wrong with our skin, body, looks and if we aren’t working towards perfection then we are lazy. When you look at skincare, most brands are selling the message of fixing and/or getting rid of aspects of yourself.

As I get older, I am feeling the constant pressure of staying “young” and it seems like everywhere I look someone is promoting the latest anti-aging products. Despite the outside noise, I am always trying to embrace the skin I have and accept all the aspects that make me unique like my rosacea and freckles. 

On the person who has encouraged her inner confidence…

My mom has always encouraged me and since I was very young she’s instilled in me that beauty comes from within. When I first found out that I had rosacea my mom was very encouraging and helped me see that this didn’t make me less beautiful.

On how skincare plays a role in how she feels about herself…

I love my skincare routine. I think it’s such a beautiful form of self-care and also a time to slow down and connect with myself. My skincare has changed over the years and the older I get, the simpler it gets. My main focus now is using clean and simple ingredient and I view my skincare as a way to enhance what’s already there rather than trying to fix or change anything.

On her top 3 confidence-boosting tips…

Curating my social media feeds. I think it’s super important to follow diverse people with diverse body types and skin types. It’s so important to be exposed to images of people that look like us and are also different from us. It’s so easy to get stuck looking at photos of people who represent the beauty ideal which can lead to a lack of confidence, but the more we can broaden the types of people we see, the more confident we can feel about our own skin. Lastly, taking care of myself: eating well, drinking enough water, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and sticking to my skincare regime.

“

I think I had to believe that what makes me unique and different is part of my beauty.”

Andrea Thomas, Model

Photo: Tony Redmer

On the pressure of perfection…

I think women are pressured in a lot of ways to fit an ideal mold. As a model, I feel pressured to stay young-looking. Whether it is covering my grays to keep my perceived age as young, maintaining a beauty regimen or staying the same size or shrink but never to gain any weight. The pressure comes from my belief that I will be valued more by clients if I look younger and more flawless.

I have always wanted to age gracefully and I try to accept all the changes my body and my face go through that are difficult to control. It is always appreciated when a brand sees that showcasing imperfections and flaws can add value to their campaign as opposed to brands that want to feed into their customer’s insecurities to make a profit. 

On who has inspired her inner confidence…

I've been inspired by a few different people. First and foremost, a fellow Piscean, Rihanna. I love the attitude she personifies and the way she lives her life. I have really made an effort to focus my life on my own personal development and joy rather than stressing about what everyone else will think. Lately, I've been inspired by Kenna Sharp. She has fair skin and very long black hair. She inspired me to kind of stop trying to blend my vitiligo with a spray tan and makeup and to just embrace the contrast of pale vitiligo with my dark hair. Now I love a little blush on my pale cheeks.

On how she recognized her own beauty…

I think I had to believe that what makes me unique and different is part of my beauty. And sometimes seeing that confidence personified in someone else can help you see it in yourself.

On how skincare plays a role in how she feels about herself…

Taking the time to remove my makeup and do my serums and creams makes my skin glow, and ultimately makes me feel better. It's funny because people always think a skincare routine is too time-consuming but I find myself looking for more steps when I'm already done. I think spending those few minutes massaging the product on my face has helped me love my skin and myself more rather than using that time to just crash in bed or spend extra time on my phone.

On her top three confidence-boosting tips…

I have a playlist for almost any occasion and I listen to music whenever I'm alone, usually working, cleaning or getting ready for the day. You will really start feeling yourself and remember to play certain songs whenever you need that boost! Wear cute pajamas to bed whenever you can. And work out for at least 20-60 minutes a day whether it's at home or the gym. There's no better way to feel stronger and to get back in touch with your body.

“

When I take the extra time to do my full skincare routine, I feel more at ease and confident because I can feel the difference it makes in my complexion.”

Joy Green, Founder of Joyfully Green

On the pressure of perfection…

I was born in China, moved to Germany in middle school and came to the U.S. during high school years. Moving so many times across several continents, without knowing the language or having friends made me hyper-aware of my shortcomings or differences as a child and adolescent. Even as an adult and mother now, I feel the need to be everything to everyone. I think it’s an innate pressure as a woman to want to be a good mom, a hard worker, and a great wife. We spend so much time thinking about how to make everyone else we love happy, it translates into a self-asserted need for perfection.

On who has inspired her inner confidence…

My mom has inspired me ever since I was a little girl. She taught me to be confident and independent, even in unfamiliar situations. When we moved to Germany for China with nothing but four suitcases, we left all our friends and family behind. My mom was in her 30s and didn’t speak a word of German. Even though life changed so drastically, she would always encourage me to be confident, try anything and give it my best effort. She taught me that every change was an opportunity to improve yourself and take the challenge head-on. I was afraid to make new friends at first but she pushed me to just be myself and the confidence would translate in any language.

Being the only Asian student in my school, I was also acutely aware of how different our background was. My mom taught me to be proud of our differences and celebrate what made me a unique person. Fast forward 20 years, I am raising a daughter in a blended, multiracial family. I hope I can bring out the same self-love and confidence in her!

On how skincare plays a role in how she feels about herself…

Skincare is one of the ways I saw my mom always investing in herself. Ever since I was little, I could remember my mom using special lotions and creams every night. I would sneak a dip in her fancy jars and felt like such a pampered princess. The older I get, the more I appreciate a good skincare routine. It’s a simple 10 to 15 minutes a day that I take for myself.

As a mom, I’ve learned to really savor those little moments you get to relax and reward yourself. When I take the extra time to do my full skincare routine, I feel more at ease and confident because I can feel the difference it makes in my complexion.

On her top three confidence-boosting tips…

1. It always starts from within. I am a huge proponent of positive self-talk and affirmations. I believe if we are mindful of our inner dialogue and change the way we speak to ourselves, the confidence and positivity radiates from within 

2. Small changes in our body posture and smiling can be an instant confidence booster too! Like my mom always says, straighten up, chin high. 

3. Do what makes you feel good. On days when I take the extra five to 10 minutes to get ready or put on a special outfit or do that extra step to make my skin glow, I always have an extra pep in my step.

“

I feel the pressure of perfection every day. I am still learning to listen to my standards and not the world.”

Hannah Neese, Body Positive Content Creator

On the pressure of perfection…

I have struggled with perfectionism my entire life. Even though my platform’s sole purpose is to encourage others to be themselves, I constantly feel like there is still something I’m not doing right. 

I feel the pressure to grow my business as quickly as possible. I feel the pressure to juggle as much as I can, while still looking and appearing perfect. We’re constantly taught that a thin body, clear skin, and a beautiful smile is the key to unlock everything in this life.

Applause is addictive, and you receive a lot of that when you’re nearing perfect. But at what cost? Your happiness? Mental health?

I feel the pressure of perfection every day. I am still learning to listen to my standards and not the world.

On who has inspired her inner confidence…

My best friend, Madee, built me up each time I began to pick myself apart. She was the first woman I’ve ever known that valued my confidence and success as much as her own. It was never a competition with her.

I am incredibly inspired by her “who cares?” attitude. If she likes it, she’ll wear it. If it doesn’t fit, she’ll throw it out. If it’s going to interfere with her happiness, she will not do it. The way she shows up completely like herself, in a world pushing for the opposite inspires me daily.

On how skincare plays a role in how she feels about herself…

I don’t have perfect skin, and that’s okay. I thought I hadn’t found the “right” routine if I still had acne or dry skin. Now, I base it on how I feel. I want to feel clean when I start and finish the day. It’s a way for me to wash the day off, and prepare for the next. My skincare routine makes me feel confident. It feels good knowing you can take care of yourself, without the end goal being perfection.

What are your top 3 confidence-boosting tips?

1. Know your role model, and think “What would ___ do?”

2. Wear matching underwear.

3. Do something that makes you feel good! I love a fresh tan and styled hair. I dare you to come to me when I have tan and loose waves—I am a powerhouse.

I am proud of each and every woman showing up when they feel like they “shouldn’t”. I am proud of every woman who is fighting to realize their self-worth. It’s not easy out there, but you’re doing it! I am with you, and I am proud of you.

Your skin is not a problem that needs a solution. Discover how to embrace your Skinversity at beekman1802.com.

2020 Vision: How 4 Women Are Approaching Wellness in the New Decade

This post is in paid partnership with iHerb.

It’s hard to believe that a decade ago, Google search interest in “self-care” was at its lowest. Now, the most popular buzz word of 2019 is feeling, well, a little burnt out. Ironic, isn’t it? But just because the word is a little overused, doesn’t mean the physical act of it is. In fact, self-care has largely contributed to the wellness market boom which is now valued at a whopping $4.2 trillion, having grown 12.8% in the last two years. And it’s not just outside of work either. The global corporate wellness market is also estimated to reach $66 billion in 2022 because news flash: healthier workers are more productive. Who knew?

Thanks to more people choosing to pursue activities that promote physical and mental well-being, self-care is now being seen as a form of necessary healthcare and not a selfish behavior as it was once viewed in the past. After all, if you don’t put your oxygen mask on first, you can’t help others. 

But it’s not always easy to find the time and wellness can be expensive. iHerb understands the challenges that come with navigating the winding road of wellness. That’s why they provide wellness solutions for all the key aspects of your life, including supplements and vitamins, sports nutrition, herbs and homeopathy, and self-care essentials like skincare and body care, at prices we can all afford.

We partnered with iHerb for our 2020 Vision panel at the recent Los Angeles Conference and asked four women—Britney Vest, Dr. Deepika Chopra, Lauren Kleban, and Kirbie Johnson—to share their thoughts on wellness in the new decade.

Read on to hear some major realness from the conversation and be sure to comment below to share your thoughts on wellness in 2020, too.

2020 Vision: A Conversation on Wellness in the New Decade Powered by iHERB

On body positivity…

“For me, body positivity is truly learning to love yourself every day exactly as you are in this moment” - Britney Vest 

“The movement has really blown up, but there is still so much to be done.” - Britney Vest  

On weight loss and body positivity...

“They can exist together, it is not a bad thing to want to improve and want to change.” - Britney Vest 

On work as self-care… 

“Work, for me, is self-care. It makes me feel valued and valuable.” - Kirbie Johnson

On taking work home...

“You're devaluing yourself because you are only paid to work from 9 to 5.” - Kirbie Johnson

On change in the beauty industry...

“We’re switching from, ‘You need this to look beautiful,’ to, ‘This will make you feel good or will help someone in need.’” - Kirbie Johnson

On partnering with brands authentically...

“No matter what it is, I typically only work with brands that I already have in my home that I am already using that I am authentically connected to.” - Britney Vest 

On wellness on social media…

“Being able to celebrate yourself on social media is so important.” - Britney Vest 

On improving… 

“Remember: It is not a bad thing to want to improve yourself and want to change.” - Britney Vest 

On not taking on too much...

“The way you can achieve wellness is by realizing that you can’t do everything at once.” - Dr. Deepika Chopra

On being an optimist… 

“Being an optimist doesn’t mean skipping around fields or always having a perfect day, it’s about being someone that sees setbacks as temporary and knowing you have the power to overcome them.” - Dr. Deepika Chopra

On mental health…

“I learned very quickly to keep blinders on—don’t be in a position where you compare yourself to others.” - Lauren Kleban

“We have our physical health and our mental health to take care of. It's what makes us all human.” - Dr. Deepika Chopra



Spritz Social: How to Stay Connected During This Time and Beyond

Photo: Courtesy of Create & Cultivate

It’s safe to say that the past few weeks have tested everyone’s internal optimism meter but it’s while no-one is denying the challenges that we’re facing, it’s important to see the silver lining, or as Katie Dunlop says “choose joy.”

It can be as simple as moving your body, taking time for an at-home facial, or sharing a cocktail with a friend via video chat to stay connected and present during this time.

Enter the Spritz Social.

To kick off this mindful movement, our CEO, Jaclyn Johnson joined Katie Dunlop, the founder of Love Sweat Fitness for a live workout and wellness chat over a Ketel One Botanical Spritz—keep scrolling for the recipe so you can make it at home too!

While the girls shared a lot of tips and advice around self-care and community (which we will get to below!), Jaclyn and Katie also wanted to highlight Ketel One Botanical’s #TipsFromHome initiative. Since bartenders are among those who have been seriously impacted by COVID-19, the Ketel One Botanical team wanted to find a way to give back. So, every time you use the hashtag #TipsFromHome with #DiageoDonation and tag @KetelOneBotanical, Diageo will donate $1 up to $1 million to participating charities such as the USBG Bartender Emergency Assistance Program.

Make sure to show your support by using the hashtag #TipsFromHome with #DiageoDonation and tag @ketelonebotanical so we can help bartenders across the country!

Now, let’s get to the cocktail! Aside from the amazing taste, the best part about Ketel One Botanical is that it’s made with 100% non-GMO grain, and it also has no carbs, no sugar, and no artificial sweeteners, which are all key things Dunlop looks for. “Being someone who is really aware of what I’m putting into my body, having those ingredients, having no added sugar, and using non-GMO grain is so important, and I just love that it’s all in one bottle—all you need is a little soda water and fresh garnish.”

“It makes me feel like a mixologist,” Jaclyn chimes in. “It feels very complicated but it’s so easy and it’s only 73 calories per glass which is great.”

Keep reading to hear more from Johnson and Dunlop’s chat along with their top wellness advice and tips to stay positive.

“It’s been really important to stick to my routine as much as possible.”

—Katie Dunlop, Founder, Love Sweat Fitness

JACLYN: How have you been staying positive during this time? 

KATIE: This time definitely has been a challenge. I think for a lot of people it’s such a shift being home so much and if you are used to going to work out classes or to gyms or just to meet up with your friends to work out, it’s a big mental shift, not to mention all of the other things that people are going through right now—that can be really stressful.

It’s been really important to stick to my routine as much as possible. That has been extremely helpful. I have always been an at-home workout girl so that part is normal to me, but the biggest thing is scheduling that time into my day and making sure I have that dedicated 10 or 15 minutes. Then I know that I’m going to do something for my body, that’s my time. This has not only been great physically but mentally it has also helped me stay on track.

What’s the first step you should take when starting a fitness community?

My community was built from my 45-pound weight loss journey, so I think the biggest thing is really finding a reason to connect with other people. You have to have some kind of common goal and common interest that motivates you to come together. So, for me, it was finding other women who understood what I was going through and what I went through. Being able to share that experience was really unique. Having that purpose, or you can say your “why” or whatever it is, just something that you feel really passionate about and are able to share but also give a unique perspective on.

And maybe on something that’s missing. So, for me, I didn’t have a community going through my own journey and I really felt like I needed to feel connected to other people and I couldn’t find that anywhere. So, that’s why I was able to start Love Sweat Fitness and now that community has really grown massively over the last two years. But I think the key is having that clear vision of what you want to see.

“My whole life, my mantra has been “choose joy.” —Katie Dunlop, Founder, Love Sweat Fitness”

How have you been sleeping? Normally I can sleep anywhere but lately, it’s been a little stressful and we’re also in a new house, so I think it’s also the newness of that. So, what tips do you have?

I’m actually sleeping better now than I have normally. I’m typically a bad sleeper, I always have been. I feel like I always need a lot of sleep and I’m always tired, but I’m not great at being a solid sleeper. So, for me, going back to routines, I have a very specific night routine that I start a half hour before I actually want to get into bed, and it’s everything from my skincare that I try to treat as a little mini-facial every night and really take time, not just throw it on. From putting on my essential oils, dimming the lights, reading, listening to music.

Having that routine really just sets your body and mind into sleep mode—that’s helped a ton. But exercise will help you sleep better too. Just being able to move your body throughout the day and giving it a little work is definitely a huge help too.

I’ve really been trying to focus on self-care—slowing down my skincare routine, doing a face mask once a week—things I don’t normally do all time, but now I have a little extra time to think about it. 

Do you have any mantras that help you stay positive?

My whole life, my mantra has been “choose joy.” My mom has always said that to me in every situation, so my mind always goes there. That’s the biggest thing for me is just trying to stay focused on all the good things that are happening and not to take away from some of the really sad and unfortunate things that are going on right now but I think trying to see the good in most situations, find the things that are uplifting and positive, and my community is a source of positivity.

I also search the #TeamLSF hashtag and I see thousands of women posting and encouraging each other and sweating it out. That gives me so much joy and helps me realize I am not just here for me, I’m here for this whole community to stay positive, to uplift each other, to come together, and that’s really, really powerful.  

Now, you can kick off your own Spritz Social with friends and say “cheers” over a Ketel One Botanical Spritz by using the simple (but very delicious) recipe below:

To learn more about Ketel One Botanical, visit ketelone.com/botanical.

This post is sponsored by Ketel One Botanical. Please drink responsibly.

PLEASE DO NOT FORWARD TO THOSE UNDER LEGAL DRINKING AGE 

LEGAL NEWSLETTER DISCLOSURE:

KETEL ONE BOTANICAL. Made With Vodka Distilled With Real Botanicals And Infused With Natural Flavors. 30% Alc/Vol. © Double Eagle Brands, B.V.  Imported by Ketel One USA, Aliso Viejo, CA.*

*Note:  Any KOB materials that feature the bottle and/or NO Sugar, NO Carbs claims also requires the additional following statement either above or below the mandatory line in the same size type: Per 1.5 oz.: 73 Cals, 0g Carbs, 0g Protein, 0g Fat

PLEASE DO NOT FORWARD TO THOSE UNDER LEGAL DRINKING AGE. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

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We Take Self-Care Seriously—How the C&C Team Relax and Unwind After a Long Day

This story is in paid partnership with Diageo.

Progress over perfection. Ever heard of it? At Create & Cultivate, it’s one of the mottos we live by. In fact, we take it so seriously, that we even have it painted on the office kitchen wall. Whether it’s personal or professional, big or small, we believe the lessons lie in the journey, not the destination. While we love dreaming big and thinking of the full picture, we make sure to celebrate the little milestones along the way too because true success is the sum of all your small efforts, right?

As opportunities, responsibilities, expectations, and commitments stack up, so do our to-do lists. But that doesn’t mean we don’t love the hustle. Of course, we do. Just make the time to pause at each step so you don’t stretch yourself too thin. And there’s a myriad of ways you can do that. Our favorite? Celebrating the wins along the way by taking time for self-care such as applying a clay face mask, taking a bath, reading a book, or our personal favorite, cracking open a Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer.

Because taking time out to relax and unwind—and getting in those eight hours of sleep a night—should be just as important as those to-do’s like creating a P&L or sending that client email. So, to help you get there, we tapped the shoulders of our very own hustlers, the team C&C, to ask how they unwind after a jam-packed day. C&C team pro tip: swap your glass of red for a low-cal alternative like our favorite Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer for a guilt-free nightcap. For more pro tips and tricks, follow along to see how our team does self-care and be sure to scroll down to the end to make our exclusive drink recipes and say cheers to yourself for getting through another day!

Danielle Boyce, Graphic Design Intern

“I work two part-time jobs and have two side hustles so I never feel like I have an ‘end of the day.’  I have made boundaries like I can't work or use my laptop after I shower and do my skincare routine. I try and unplug at least half an hour before I go to sleep. But, I usually listen to a podcast or call my friends living in San Francisco for the summer. I like recapping my day with my favorite people, it always puts me in a good mood for the morning.”

Alyssa Sage, Marketing Manager

“How do I unwind? With a bubble bath and my fave book, wine, and candles.” 

Nicole Povey, Coordinator 

“After a long day, I love to wind down with a glass of Pinot Grigio and some bad reality T.V. If I’m not feeling the electronics, painting is my go-to for winding down and resetting.” 

Dana Saperstein, Senior Event Producer

“I unwind after a long day by cooking. Cooking allows me guidelines that I can follow so I don't have to think too much. Chopping is like my meditation. I can zone out. It also provides a little bit of excitement because you never know how it's going to turn out!”

Dre Reyes , Senior Marketing Associate

"I like to unwind by cleansing my face, putting on a face mask and enjoying a glass of wine while I lounge on the couch in my comfy robe. To me, this is the ultimate form of self-care.”

Sacha Strebe, Editorial Director

“For me, unwinding is all about a long, hot, salt bath. There’s nothing quite like it for soothing aching bones, muscles, and to allow some time for your brain to digest the day, detach from the to-do list, and quietly meditate without screens or distractions. I just read that 1kg of pink Himalayan salt (has to be food grade) in a bath is a powerful detoxifier because it extracts the toxins out of your skin and tissues. It’s akin to soaking in an ocean of energy. The process is called dermal absorption because your skin soaks up the minerals from the water including calcium, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, zinc and more. So, I’m hitting up my Amazon Prime account and having a few bags of salt delivered stat.” 

Kylie Tansey, VP Sales

“My fiancé and I are learning to cook together. Cooking always seemed like a chore to us. Now that we have become a little more comfortable in the kitchen, it has become a way that we relax and catch up with each other after a long day. Cheesy as it sounds, I find that having something as simple as time together to look forward to at the end of the day makes even the hardest of days feel more joyful.” 

Spice up  your nightly self-care ritual with one of our favorite Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer recipes below! 

Spiked Piña Colada 

Ingredients:

1 can of  Piña Colada Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer

1 oz. coconut cream

6 oz. fresh pineapple juice

1 cup of crushed ice

Directions:  Combine all ingredients then blend until smooth. Add a fun toothpick umbrella and a slice of pineapple for optimal vacation vibes.

Raspberry Frozé

Ingredients:

1 can of Raspberry Rosé Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer

1 oz. lemon juice

3½ ounces strawberry syrup

1 cup of crushed ice 

Directions:  Combine all ingredients then blend until smooth. Place blender container in the freezer for approximately 30 minutes for the best consistency.

How Women in Charge Unwind and Get Out of the Office

We’ve all been there. After a long couple of weeks or months at work, we get the itch to unwind and get some time out of the office. For those work-from-homers, the need to step away from computers and working area is just as real too. As many of us know, being a boss means that you are always ready to go and plugged in, and many entrepreneurs sacrifice perks like vacations and weekends, and even late nights to put in the work needed to run a successful business.

We treated a group of fierce female founders to our first ever Out of Office Retreat, in partnership with Chandon. From fashion and jewelry designer, to winemakers, bloggers, and more, everyone who joined deserved a much-needed break. So, what did we do? We headed to the Domaine Chandon winery in Napa, California, sipped on bubbly, hopped on a hot air balloon, heard from inspiring women, and so much more. Keep on reading for some takeaways from the well-deserved time off.

First up, a balloon ride. The theme of the retreat was overcoming fears and taking flight, so what better activity? If there is one thing that holds so many of us back each day from growing as individuals, achieving high levels of success and becoming the best version of themselves, fear is definitely at the top of the list.  High achievers, regardless of occupation, understand that taking risks and massive action is a vital part in getting from where you are to where you want to go. And that goes for in life, and in business.

Many of our guests faced their fear of heights and others simply crossed off this bucket list item. We took a ride across the lovely town of Napa, and got to bond, snap some pics, and of course enjoy more bubbly.

Next, the group toured the Domaine Chandon winery, where Pauline Lhote is a lead winemaker. It’s important to note that she’s one of the few women in charge across the winemaking industry, and has worked her way up the ladder with Chandon for many years.

After a relaxing lunch outside, our getaway attendees sat through an inspiring conversation with Rebecca Minkoff, Baublebar’s Daniella Yacobovsky, and Pauline Lhote. We also invited our Create & Cultivate scholarship winners along for the ride, Afenya Montgomery of the ICANCollective, and Samantha Santana of Samantha Santana designs. Ahead, some key points from the conversation.

#OOORetreat Convo Takeaways

“I think it’s more important to be authentic versus being on all the time.”- Rebecca Minkoff

“Surround yourself by really incredible people and count on them to bring that brand on vision to life.”-Daniella Yacobovsky

“You’re going to fail, you’re going to learn, you’re going to grow.”-Rebecca Minkoff

“Every woman is a superwoman.” -Rebecca Minkoff

“That’s the great thing about my job is that there is no typical day.” -Pauline Lhote

“Whenever I feel afraid, I tap into the part of me that’s most confident.”-Rebecca Minkoff

“You’re going to fail, you’re going to learn, you’re going to grow.”-Rebecca Minkoff

The retreat was special for so many reasons but we’ll admit that our favorite part was that we spent our days discussing issues that matter to us, plus what we can all do about them. We shared resources from website designers to PR and communications, and discussed the parts of a business that really move the needle. While our days were packed with activities, the brainstorming and collaboration was completely reenergizing, and we all left with new goals and new ladies to call our friends. 

Check out all of the photos from the #OOORetreat weekend in our full album here.

How do you make sure to take time away from the office to unwind? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Science Behind Intention-Setting, Plus 6 Ways How it Can Elevate Your Business Goals

As an entrepreneur, it is essential to set goals to achieve the results you desire. However, women often put so much pressure on themselves for achieving a certain milestone or metric in the form of a goal that goals can sometimes be counterproductive. Let me explain.

Goals can inadvertently make us feel like a failure. We either hit the $10k month or we didn't. Traditional goal-setting often plays into the black/white mentality that is so pervasive in our society. These types of goals don't leave a lot of room for all the beautiful colors in between where we may not have hit the exact goal we wanted but we succeeded in other ways. For example, maybe you didn't hit your goal of $10k this month but you set up 20 meetings with prospects that could lead to $30k next month. Getting down on yourself for not hitting your original goal of $10k could rob you of celebrating the 20 prospect meetings you worked hard to achieve that may even result in more revenue in the long run.

Intentions, on the other hand, are less shame-based and offer more opportunity to feel a sense of accomplishment. Or as I like to say, they leave more room for magic. Those little surprises that help us generate income or increase our influence in ways we didn't expect. For example, you might have the goal "book 5 clients this month" when in reality what you desire is to make money in a way that feels energizing and aligned. Maybe booking 5 clients will feel energizing and aligned but maybe there's a speaking opportunity for the same amount of money that would feel even more energizing and aligned. You don't want to be so focused on booking your 5 clients that you 1) book clients who aren't aligned and suck the life out of you or 2) miss that amazing speaking opportunity. It's a practice of detaching from the outcome and believing in the infinite possibilities that are available to us at any given time.

Intentions not only offer a more compassionate way to set goals but there have been studies that look at psi (a general way to describe types of communication or information transfer that defy common understanding of time and space), which suggest that conscious intention (e.g. thoughts and feelings) influences unconscious activity. In fact, our eyes receive and process 10 million bits of information per second but we only consciously engage with 16 of them. This means we are only aware of a fraction of the information that is at our fingertips. Part of our work is to learn how to expand our awareness through practices like meditation. The other part is to simply believe there is more than meets the eye.

Here are 6 ways to use intention-setting to elevate your business goals:

1. Create a vision board for your business - vision boards are all the rage these days and there's a reason why. Have you ever considered creating a vision board specifically for your business? It can be a fun way to uncover what you desire your business to look and feel like and where you want to focus your attention. Especially if you find yourself too much in your head, spending time to reconnect with your bigger mission through imagery can be incredibly rewarding. Let your imagination run wild.

2. Schedule a monthly intention-setting party - it can be fun to get together with your fellow lady bosses once a month and share your intentions with each other. You can ask each other questions like: Where do you desire to focus your energy? What was your biggest learning from the previous month? What do you hope to celebrate at the end of this month?

3. Outline your ideal day as CEO - as an entrepreneur, it is important to be clear on what your ideal day as CEO would look and feel like. Otherwise, we can get side-tracked from our bigger vision of life and business by spending our days responding to low-priority emails, scheduling meetings over meal times, and slipping back into old workaholic routines. Setting your own schedule is one of the greatest perks of being an entrepreneur so take time to make this happen. Ask yourself: How many hours do I want to work every day? What would my dream mornings look like? How often do I want to work out each week? When am I most productive? How important is it to practice daily self-care?

4. Choose a word of the week - intention-setting doesn't have to be overwhelming. It can be as simple as choosing a word of the week like "confidence", "focus", "trust", "joy", "visibility", or "play." This is a great way to stay committed to an intention without having to do anything too elaborate. Try writing your word in your journal, putting it on a sticky note on your computer, or creating a calendar reminder so you see it daily.

5. Claim your superpower - in the midst of trying to achieve goals, it is easy to focus on where you are falling short and forget how amazing you are. Take some time to remind yourself what you are truly gifted at. What is your superpower? Is it navigating difficult conversations? Is it getting people to view something differently? Is it your strong intuition? Is it your coding skills? In the fast pace of entrepreneur life, don't forget to celebrate all the ways that you are shining.

6. Visualize yourself in 5 years - taking a step back to imagine where you would like to be in 5 years can be a powerful exercise. This isn't about knowing all the answers but tapping into the essence of your big dreams. We can get so caught up in the day-to-day activities of running a business that we lose sight of where we want to go. Take a moment to close your eyes and picture yourself 5 years from this moment. Where are you? What are you doing? What is the impact you are making? Who is around you? How do you feel? What wisdom does your future self want your younger self to know?

To all of my fellow hustlers out there, don't let your business goals be a cause of stress or shame. Weave some intention-setting into your business strategy because it's not only a fun way to stay focused but science is telling us there is real power putting words to positive changes we wish to make in our life.

By: Elizabeth Su

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Elizabeth Su is a life coach and mindfulness expert who mentors high-achieving women around the world to unlock their potential, lean into joy, and live life to the fullest. I am currently pursuing my Masters in Clinical Psychology (concentration in Spirituality Mind Body) and an advanced certificate in Sexuality, Women, and Gender from Columbia University. I have been featured in numerous media outlets including OZY, Fatherly, Bustle, PopSugar, Elite Daily, and Thought Catalog for my work around marriage mindfulness, female empowerment, and navigating your own path to happiness.

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How to Create a Zen Meditation Space and Improve Your Career at the Same Time)

I’m not going to lie — the first time I tried to meditate, I felt utterly ridiculous. I’d read about all of the benefits and how it was going to be “completely life-changing,” but for the most part, I just sat there with my eyes closed and worried I was doing it wrong. 

No one bothered to tell me that there’s a bit of a learning curve when it comes to meditation. You can’t just plop down on a pillow and become a master in 15 minutes. Like so many things in life, it takes practice. However, once I got the hang of it, I found it to be just as cathartic as all the meditation and yoga blogs had promised. 

The benefits of meditation most often touted are lowered blood pressure, more restful sleep, and stress relief. For this anxiety-ridden writer, it was the promise of reduced stress that really called to me. I hoped that by lowering my stress levels I could find a bit of peace in life — but I never expected it to have the impact it did on my career.

Meditation & Your Career

Even people that absolutely love their jobs are subject to work-related stress. And since stress can have a serious effect on our mental and physical health, it’s important we find healthy ways to deal with it. One of those ways is meditation.

When we’re under physical or mental pressure, our bodies release stress hormones (e.g. cortisol, adrenaline, norepinephrine) and go into “fight or flight” mode. However, researchers from the Benson-Henry Institute found that practicing meditation causes what they call the “relaxation response” — this is effectively the opposite of “fight or flight.” Their studies have revealed that the relaxation response not only lessens stress and anxiety, it also positively affects heart rate, blood pressure, and brain activity.

Being able to tap into meditation exercises in the office can reduce stress, help you to make better decisions, enhance your creativity, and boost your concentration. What’s more, it can give you the perspective you need to deal with workplace anxiety. 

One of the nicest things about meditation is that it can be practiced almost anywhere — I’ve done it in my car and even at my desk. All it takes is five to 10 minutes of meditation during your lunch break to release tension and get some clarity. That said if you really want to make the most of your meditation, practicing for 30 minutes to an hour every day is better — especially if you have a dedicated space at home to do it in. 

Designing a Summer Meditation Space at Home

While an indoor meditation space is awesome for year-round use, an outdoor area can really shake things up (in a good way!) Summer mornings and evenings are the perfect time to get outside and meditate. There’s something so soothing about meditating when surrounded by nature. You can feel the breeze on your skin, hear the birds in the trees, and smell the sweet summer air. It’s heavenly.

Here are the fundamentals you’ll need to create a zen summer meditation space:

Privacy

It’s difficult to meditate when you feel exposed. Create a feeling of safety and security with fencing, hedges, trees, trellises, umbrellas, folding screens, or hanging tapestries.

Flora, Stone, & Water

When creating a meditation area, it’s important to incorporate the elements. 

• Even though you’re already outdoors, you’ll still want to add some greenery into your space. Use your senses as a guide when choosing plants — look for pleasing textures, brightly colored flowers, and calming fragrances. 
• Stone will add to the strength and stability of your space. Use flat stones, river rock, bricks, and pavers to build an altar, labyrinth, or rock sculptures. 
• A recirculating patio fountain will not only bring water into your outdoor haven but also produce a marvelous sound to train your focus to while meditating. 

Comfort

A truly refreshing meditation session will call for a certain amount of comfort. Fashion a comfy spot to meditate by layering outdoor rugs, cushions, and throw blankets. To help beat the heat (and avoid a sunburn), tie fabric to trees or structures to create a shaded cover. 

Lighting & Decor

Minimalism is the best approach when it comes to decorating your meditation area — you don’t want it to be overly cluttered and distracting. The trick is to select decor that fills you with a sense of serenity and tranquility. Popular items include meditation beads, crystals, bells, singing bowls, wind chimes, and affirmation stones. Light your space with candles, fairy lights, decorative lanterns, or a fire pit. 

Conclusion

Your summer meditation space can be as small or as large as you’d like. Personally, I prefer a cozy nook to a large, open space, but it’s all about personal preference. Choose a space that brings you peace and turn it into a meditation haven.

Spend at least 20 minutes each day meditating outside. Close your eyes, follow your breathing, and practice visualization. You can do this before work, after work, or both. The more you practice meditation, the more you’ll see the benefits. So grab a cushion, go outside, and get your summer meditation on—you’ll be feeling happy and centered in no time!

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Liz Greene is a feminist, makeup enthusiast, and anxiety-ridden realist from the beautiful city of trees, Boise, Idaho. When she’s not writing, she enjoys eating fancy cheeses, fantasizing about what life would be like if she had an Iron Man suit, and re-watching Venture Bros. episodes for the 100th time. You can follow her latest cosmetic misadventures on her blog, Three Broke Bunnies  or follow her on Twitter @LizVGreene

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