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Articles by Mindy Smoak
Try These Cool Planners For Organization, Time Management And Goal-Setting
We have smartphones, work computers, personal tablets, Alexa, and even smart refrigerators that give us daily reminders of meetings, tasks, deadlines, and more. We are so inundated with these reminders that we easily dismiss them. Taking a step away from technology and purposefully planning our time and energy is more beneficial. Writing down our priorities and plans and then seeing them all together visually triggers different areas in our brain that helps us encode information more effectively.
Global Destinations For Women Seeking Peace And Quiet
As more and more people are traveling again, many places are becoming crowded and popular locations are nearly overrun. Most of us, including me, are exhausted from the last few years and need a place of solace. Here are 7 places where we can find the peace and solace we seek. Tip: Go in the shoulder season, when the weather is decent but peak travel season hasn’t started.
All The Creative Office Inspiration You Need From Instagram
Are you feeling stuck in a rut? Having a hard time getting inspired? Refreshing your environment is a great way to get out of that rut and spark your creative genius. Whether you are into minimalism, modern aesthetic, boho chic, farmhouse, coastal, or all about color there are so many ideas you can draw from. Enjoy the following aesthetic inspo from these creative women, then get started on your space.
Easy Ways to Tap Into Creativity And Innovation At Work
Creativity and innovation have become key determinations of success for entrepreneurs and businesses. Honing these skills are just as important, or even more so, as project management, customer relations, operations, budgeting, etc. Beyond businesses, the global economy is dependent on innovation. How can you do your part to spark more creativity and innovation? We all have ideas inside of us waiting to be hatched. Here are some ways to tap into your innovative genius: 1.
CRWN Magazine Launches The Beauty Bible Featuring Tracee Ellis Ross
CRWN Magazine is launching their Beauty Bible in March featuring Tracee Ellis Ross. The issue, which is the first of its kind, is going to be a classic piece of practical advice, inspiration, and stunning beauty that many will treasure for years. Prepare space on your nightstand or coffee table, as you will want to both display the Beauty Bible and refer to it often.
For Your Next Vacation, These Spots Offer A Focus On Wellness
The last few years have been challenging for many, and let’s face it a day at the spa, a typical trip, or a girl’s weekend just might not cut it. It's time for you to invest in yourself and go on a retreat that will ensure relaxation, rejuvenation, and peace. You need something that is more than a vacation. You need an adventure that will open your heart and set your soul on fire, and one of these wellness options is a must this year.
5 Amazing Staycation Spots For A Romantic Getaway
Whether you are a newer couple, married with kids, or long-time significant others a vacation is always a good bet for injecting romance into your relationship. Jetting off somewhere far away for a week might not be in your budget or schedule though. Don’t fret - a weekend of romance in a nearby location is sure to ignite romance. Check out these five staycation spots. If these aren’t close to you, get inspiration for your own romantic weekend where you live.
4 Millennial Women Leading In Business And Innovation
Source: Instagram//iamchelseacwilliams The Association for Talent Development reports that by 2025, millennials will make up nearly 75% of the workforce. More and more millennial women are leading in business and paving the way for others to follow. Meet four women who will inspire you to start your own leadership journey. Chelsea C.
Top Global Jobs Perfect For The Wanderluster In You
Home > The Main Agenda > Career Do you sometimes feel torn between work and travel? Do you want to be able to experience more of the world, but can only do so much with your limited vacation time or are tied to your clients locally? Luckily, remote and freelance jobs are increasing substantially. Forbes shared that the percentage of remote jobs jumped from 4% in 2020 to 15% in 2022 and projections for 2023 increase to 25%. Freelance work increased 34% from 2020 to 2021 and is poised to continue, .
Black Women Share Finding The Joy In Entrepreneurship
LaMonica Toussaint, Founder, I.L.M.B. Fitness Source: Courtesy of LaMonica Toussaint LaMonica Toussaint founded I.L.M.B. (which stands for I Love My Body) Fitness in 2009 as a brand promoting conscious ftiness choices and a commitment to health and fitness as a lifestyle. In 2013, she expanded into fitness apparel.
4 Awesome Women-Led Wellness Platforms For Healing And Self-Care
According to the Global Wellness Institute, the global wellness industry accounted for $4.4 trillion in 2020. It is also the only industry of its size that is predominately headed by women. "the total physical activity of the population is significantly reduced during periods of quarantine, self-isolation and lockdown, with profound negative effects on people's mental health and well-being." This has also contributed to a significant toll on people, particularly, women’s mental health.
International Day Of The Girl: 6 Young Leaders Changing The World
On October 11, 2012, the United Nations declared the day as the International Day of the Girl. The purpose of this recognition was to bring attention to the challenges that girls face globally. It also was established to promote girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights. International Day of the Girl focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.
Five Unique Routes For The Best Fall Road Trip
Ahh, fall! Mild warm days, cool nights by the fire pit, iced coffees giving way to warm teas, and trees bursting with beautiful orange and yellow leaves. Many people think of nestling down at home with pumpkin-flavored pancakes topped with warm maple syrup. Instead, you should think about hitting the road, when nature puts on its most glorious show. Also, peak summer crowds and peak summer prices die down, allowing you to enjoy fabulous destinations for longer. Where should you go though?
How To Financially Plan For The 'Soft Life'
You might have seen buzz on Instagram, TikTok, or other platforms about the "soft life," but just what is it, and what has spurred this trend? And better yet, what does it take to financially afford or even sustain such a lifestyle? Well, according to reports, it's “a life of ease, peace, comfort, and intentional happiness." It is a rejection of the idea that you must hustle in all aspects of your life (ie. work 50 hours a week, exercise 10 hours a week, or have a packed social calendar).
How To Be A True Ally For Black-Owned Businesses Year Round
Black Business Month was launched in 2004 by John William Templeton, an accomplished historian and businessman, to help expand and support for Black-owned businesses. There are many ways to be a true ally for Black-owned businesses year-round. As Black Business Month comes to a close, here's a reminder as to why you should be a true ally for founders all year long, and how you can support their success.
Top Beaches To Add To Your Summer Vacation List
Summer usually has us dreaming of and (hopefully) planning beach vacations. Maybe for this summer, the upcoming winter, next summer? Maybe even beaches to visit for a possible relocation? What is your preferred beach vibe: relaxed, luxurious, family-friendly, or adventurous? No matter your preference, there is a beach for you. One of these six, or maybe all, might appeal to you: Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii Poipu Beach is one of the best for year-round family fun and relaxation.
Airport Lounges: A Good Idea Or A Waste Of Money For Frequent Flyers?
Airport lounges seem like a luxury for frequent flyers and the elite. With Delta announcing new premium lounges reserved for only Delta One business class passengers, that seems even more so. Are there ways to access airport lounges that don’t require high amounts of credit card reward points, elite travel status, or an expensive day pass? What perks do you get at the lounges? Are lounges available that are not restricted to specific airlines? Are they even worth it? Why consider an airport lounge?
6 Locales Emerging As The New Foodie Centers On The Block
If you Google the best foodie cities in America you might get the usual list that includes New York, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Charleston, Chicago, New Orleans, and more. While these places are deserving of their reputation, there are many other towns worth a visit for their food scene. You can explore great new places and discover amazing food without the crowds. Tucson, Arizona In recent years, Tucson has been gaining on Phoenix as the Sunshine State’s bright spot on the foodie scene.
TSA Pre-Check And Global Entry: Are They Worth The Investment?
Are you planning to travel a lot more this year? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), travel numbers are back up to nearly 2019 levels. That means a lot more people at the airport, going through security. Are you also considering international travel soon? Again, you're not the only one.
6 Ways To Add Luxe To A Budget Trip
Summer vacations are just around the corner. You probably want a vacation that feels indulgent and luxurious, but your bank account is saying otherwise. Don’t worry. There are lots of ways to have amazing vacations without breaking the bank. Try these tips to save while traveling, then use the savings and treat yourself. Be flexible. Rhonda Weaver, an Expedia cruise specialist, says flexibility is her number-one tip for finding the best travel deals.
5 Ways To Pamper Yourself On A Budget
The last few years have been hard on everyone, especially women. We are being asked to do more with less than ever. Work at home, but don’t make it obvious you are at home. Be prepared for schools to shut down and reopen at any moment. Be prepared to suddenly adjust due to a co-worker or a family member getting Covid-19. The demands seem endless. With all these demands and uncertainty, it is more important than ever that we take care of ourselves.
4 Reasons Millennials Are Still Quitting Their Jobs
In September 2021, CNBC reported that 63% of millennials were or will be looking for a new job. Millennials were hit particularly hard by the pandemic, with more than 30% losing their job and reporting longer stretches of unemployment. This came after they had already been hit hard by the Great Recession. It seems millennials would be eager to get jobs, especially if those jobs pay the bills.
6 Cool Business Ideas for Creatives
It's a total myth that creative people aren’t good at business. In fact, according to The Policy Circle, “In the U.S., employment in arts and culture generated just over $400 billion in wages for over 5.1 million Americans in 2017.” Further, arts and cultural production once accounted for more of the economy than transportation, tourism, or construction, as reported by Americans for the Arts. You can be creative and build a thriving business with your unique skills.
How To Prepare For A Great Next Quarter In Business
As an entrepreneur, you probably feel excited about the beginning of the year and setting big goals. Toward the end of the year, you are equally as excited to finish strong. What might get neglected though are those months during the second and third quarters of the year. Approaching each quarter as equally important to your business growth will help keep you focused, keep the momentum going, and lead to a more successful journey.
How To Be An Advocate For Black History Month And Beyond
Per NPR, the number of attempts to ban school library books was 67% higher in September 2021 than in September 2020. The FBI also reported the most hate crimes in 2020 since 2008, with 56% of race-based hate crimes being motivated by anti-Black bias. With hate crimes, book banning, and incidences of bias on the rise in our country, it’s more important than ever that we as a country recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans.
9 Apps To Help Freelancers Manage Their Business Finances
As a freelancer, you'll need to be sure you have all the tools you need for financial success, especially since the buck literally stops at you when it comes to managing your finances. From invoicing, taxes, and other responsibilities, apps can help you balance it all seamlessly and with as little stress as possible. Check out nine apps that will help you manage your business finances: Paymo Paymo is a free project management and billing tool for freelancers that need to record billable time.
5 Smart Podcasts For Women Founders, By Women Founders
Sitting at your computer all day working can make you sluggish. Then when you want to focus on personal growth, the prospect of searching for, scrolling through, and reading on a screen again is exhausting. This is why podcasts are great tools for inspiration and education. If you are—or want to be—an entrepreneur, fortunately for you there are numerous high-quality podcasts. Here are five to plug into now for inspiration, resources, information, and more.
6 Top Women In Sports Who Inspired Us This Year
The mention of top athletes usually brings to mind who scored the most points or won the most championships. The top athletes are more though. They are leaders who change the future. True leaders are those that speak up, conquer fear, champion their purpose, and inspire the next generation. These six women embody the characteristics of being champions and leaders. Article continues below advertisement Naomi Osaka She's one of the best in women’s Tennis.
5 Ways To Combat Seasonal Depression
A week before daylight savings time it starts to feel like an edge of dread pressing down. My daughter isn’t home until 4:30 pm from school, and with darkness already starting to creep in and our rainy season in full swing, there will be few opportunities for neighborhood walks with our dogs. Walks that provide me a lift and get my tween daughter to open up a little. Sometimes it feels like the winter robs me of moments that matter. It appears many others struggle during this season too.
5 Sustainable And Ethical Online Holiday Markets You Will Love
Now more than ever, sustainability and ethics matter. With holiday shopping underway, you might want to shop your values as well. According to Entrepreneur, the global ethical fashion market has had a compound annual growth rate of 8.7% since 2015. A survey by PWC also found that approximately 60% of millennials and over 50% of GenX consumers care about the sustainability practices behind what they buy. Here are 5 online markets to scour for all your gift-giving needs.
Review: And Just Like That, We Can't Stay The Same
We can’t stay the same, as Carrie says just a few minutes into 'And Just Like That.' Yet, we want some things to stay the same. That is the paradox of the first two episodes, a paradox that leaves me feeling conflicted. The original 'Sex and the City' was an escape from real life. The new one feels like a deep dive into the complexities and messiness of reality. Both are necessary at different times in our lives.
Forget Resolutions - Try A Vision Board Party
Most of us have big dreams and goals. It’s a tradition to set New Year’s resolutions to help you achieve your dreams and goals. According to the NY Post, “…just 8 percent of people achieve their New Year’s goals, while around 80 percent fail to keep their New Year’s resolutions.” So, what is a better option than resolutions? Try creating a vision board instead. Vision boards are a collage of images and words that reflect your dreams for your future.
5 Games You Need For A Boozy Adult Game Night In
Contrary to popular belief, games are not just for kids — and this holiday season is the perfect time for adults to partake in some (boozy) fun. In an article on Cartamundi, Dr. White shares that “Play helps us connect with other people because we are open in a way that allows them to feel, maybe, this is a safe person to be with and maybe even fun to be around.” A few years ago, during Thanksgiving at my in-laws, we played Cards Against Humanity.
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