Category: Lifestyle

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Life x Culture Lifestyle

How To Get A Job You Feel Unqualified For

Making a leap in your career can be daunting, especially if you feel underqualified for the job. But with the right mindset and approach, you can make your application stand out, impress people in your interview, and land the job you’re dreaming of.
So if you spot an open position and you’re telling yourself, “I am not qualified for this job,” hold on. We’ve got insider deets on how to ace the recruitment and hiring process.

Should you apply if you feel unqualified?

While it may not be fruitful to apply for the CEO position after your first year on the job, there is some wiggle room in terms of the years of experience and required skills mentioned in most job postings.
Rebecca Ebner, a talent acquisition business partner and operations integration lead, and her team have discovered that “Women, in general, will only apply for a job if they meet 90 percent of the criteria—sometimes even 100 percent—whereas men will apply if they only meet about 75 percent of the job requirements.”
That’s a huge difference, isn’t it? And if women continue to feel like they shouldn’t apply unless they meet every requirement, we’re at a serious disadvantage in the workplace.
“Because women are more inclined to make sure they’re 100 percent qualified before applying, they are more apt to find themselves in a non-challenging position,” shares Ebner. It’s hard, then, to expect growth in a role like that. Oftentimes, though, women stay in a job because they look at the next level and feel like they don’t meet that next set of criteria.
So, let’s break this harmful cycle!  

Catch Their Eye: Tips for When You’re Unqualified

Align your resume with the job qualifications.

The first thing Ebner suggests is pulling out your resume along with the job description for the new position. Compare the job posting qualifications, years of experience necessary, and required skills to what’s on your resume. Where are the gaps? And what are the aspects you need to clarify on your resume?
“If possible, sit down with a trusted friend, a previous manager, or a mentor,” suggests Ebner. You’ll gain an outside perspective and receive guidance on how to modify your resume.
[pullquote align=’center’]If women continue to feel like they shouldn’t apply unless they meet every requirement, we’re at a serious disadvantage in the workplace.[/pullquote]
Don’t forget to adjust your older work history, either, even if the job was several years ago. “A lot of people don’t go back and update all of their experience,” says Ebner. For example, if you were a cashier at McDonald’s, you might list tasks such as “dealt with customers” or “exchanged money.” Ebner recommends editing the tone of these descriptions to include things like, “provided high level of customer service” or “processed orders and managed cash register during high volume.”
By making small modifications that align your past experiences with the new job, you’re showing that your background does indeed match with what your prospective employer is looking for.

Talk about all of your years of experience.

“Perhaps you haven’t done the specific tasks listed on the job description, but chances are you have experience related to some of the skills they’ve included: leadership, critical thinking, project management,” says Faith Shovein, talent acquisition manager at Domino’s Pizza Headquarters. “If you’re able to reference examples of these qualities in your work and confidently communicate their relevance, chances are the employer will make the connection.”
And sometimes it’s not just your previous jobs that relate to a position but your extracurriculars too. Whether you led a project as a volunteer or guest lectured at a university, add all of your related experience and skills to your resume. Consider highlighting activities such as volunteering for charity, taking training courses, being a member of an organization, or participating as an elected individual on a local council or parent–teacher association, for example.
By highlighting your related experiences, both career-based and otherwise, you’ll have a more well-rounded application that’s likely to catch the eyes of a recruiter or hiring manager.

Sealing the Deal: Tips for Your Interview

You’ve landed an interview. Congratulations!
Whether it’s a phone interview or you’re meeting in person, specific strategies will help you stand out.
Remember, though, that honesty is always the best policy. “Your interviewer has your resume, so they know your background. It’s okay to say that you’ve never done something before,” says Karen DeVries, a practice manager at Mercy Health who hires for clinical jobs, front end staff, team leaders, and physicians.
So how can you be honest and still boost your interview performance?

Research the job and company ahead of time.

While it may seem like common sense, a large portion of candidates don’t do ample research about the company or position ahead of time. Doing thorough research puts you at a serious advantage.
“If you don’t have experience with something listed on the job description, make sure you’ve gained a reasonable understanding so you’re not caught entirely off guard when it’s mentioned in an interview,” shares Shovein. “The more you know about the company, the better you can understand the job and how your skill sets will contribute to the success of the role.”
[pullquote align=’center’]“Before any interview, set aside time to review your key professional experiences so that they’re fresh in your mind when you’re asked for specific examples in an interview.”[/pullquote]
“You should be able to ask questions about the role itself, even if you’re not experienced in it,” says DeVries. “Come to the interview prepared with a brief statement about why you’re interested in the position and how you’re hoping to grow or learn, along with a few narrowed questions about the role or department.”
That’s right: An interview is a two-way street.
“People go into interviews thinking they have to ace it to get the job, but sometimes a job truly isn’t the best fit. Be sure to ask questions about the culture, business, and growth opportunities,” suggests Ebner. These aspects make a big difference when deciding if the job is right for you, too.

Prepare, prepare, prepare.

“After 10 years in recruiting, I’m still shocked when I stump candidates with questions like ‘What interested you in this job?’ or ‘Tell me about your most recent accomplishment,’” shares Shovein.
Her tip for having solid answers ready? Study yourself!
“Before any interview, set aside time to review your key professional experiences so that they’re fresh in your mind when you’re asked for specific examples in an interview. This should alleviate the time spent sulking after your interview when that perfect answer finally came to you.”

Allow yourself time to answer.

Arriving at your interview prepared is essential, but you won’t have perfect responses for everything. “If you come across a question and you’re unsure how to answer, you can say, ‘Let me think about that for a moment,’” says DeVries. “By requesting more time, it shows you give good thought to your answers and you’re not just giving scripted responses.”

Redirect the answer if necessary.

If you get to the interview and are asked about something you don’t have experience with, modify your answer rather than simply saying you’ve never done it before. “Try saying something like, ‘That’s not something I’m well-versed in, but I did have this experience that relates,’ or ‘I’ve never done that, but here’s what I’m looking to do in future experiences,’” suggests DeVries.
By changing the angle of your answer, you’re providing the interviewer with honest information and showing you can think critically and connect your other experiences.

Follow the STAR method for behavioral-based interview questions.

Almost all companies and HR departments include behavioral-based interviewing in their recruitment process. Behavioral-based questions prompt you to describe previous experiences—revealing how you handled situations and which skills you utilized.
[pullquote align=’center’]“Choose simplistic colors instead of bright ones. Let the interviewer ask the complete question before cutting them off.”[/pullquote]
“With behavioral-based questions, always follow the STAR method,” says Ebner. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Find behavioral-based question samples by searching online (or check out The Balance Careers’ list here), then practice describing the situation, the tasks you accomplished, the actions you took, and the final results. By incorporating these four components, you’ll give your interviewer a well-rounded response.
Remember that interviewers want to hear examples. “If you say you’re organized, be ready to describe how you’re organized,” says DeVries. Anyone can say they’re a team player or dedicated. But if you can show how you put those qualities into practice, hiring managers will understand the incredible value you offer.

Demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to learn.

Ebner shares that managers may choose lower-qualified candidates if they demonstrate that they’re trainable and adaptable. “If candidates show a positive demeanor in the interview and provide examples of being flexible to change, a hiring manager will have an incentive to hire that person.”
So, it’s not just about years of experience after all. It’s about who you are as a person, too.

And…don’t forget the interview basics for getting a job.

Making a great first impression is key, and that can start with what you wear to your interview: “Come to the interview in professional attire. Choose simplistic colors instead of bright ones. Let the interviewer ask the complete question before cutting them off,” reminds DeVries.
It’s normal (and even healthy) to be a bit nervous for an interview, but try to remain calm, and focus on answering the specific question asked.  
Ebner suggests keeping your answers to two to four minutes long so the interview feels more conversational. By sticking to answering the question, the interviewer will have time for follow-up questions and discussion.

What Not to Do When You Feel Unqualified in a Job Interview

“First of all, don’t show that you feel unqualified,” says Ebner. She recalls a time when a candidate interviewed and said to the manager, “I know I’m unqualified, so this interview is just for good practice. Thank you for having me.” The manager was immediately turned off from hiring them due to their lack of confidence.
“It’s natural to experience impostor syndrome when you feel unqualified for a job,” says Ebner. She recommends bringing confidence to the interview and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. That’s part of leaping to that next level.

When to Call It Quits

“Sometimes the hiring process is slow,” admits Ebner. Even if a company has a rockstar candidate, they might be waiting on funding or someone could be on vacation. “Just because you haven’t heard back on an application or interview isn’t indicative that you’re unqualified or not the right fit.”
But if you’ve put forth continual effort in applying for similar roles and you’re not getting anywhere, take a step back and assess the situation, says Ebner. “Ask yourself questions like, ‘Do I have real leadership skills? Have I put myself in positions to direct others in their work?’ Identify gaps between your current experience and the role you want. Consider joining organizations or project teams or asking for new assignments to pursue opportunities to build specific skills.
“If you can’t seem to move up immediately in your own organization, consider moving to another company,” says Ebner. You can always come back once you have new skills and experiences.
Set your eyes on that next role and keep chipping away at achieving your dreams. It will happen.

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Life x Culture Lifestyle

Here’s The Deal With ‘Chivalrous’ Workplace Sexism

When Claire Goodwin was in college, she spent two years working for a company with over 500,000 employees, about 40 percent of whom were women. During her time there, Claire regularly experienced offers of help from her male co-workers—but it was help she had never asked for and didn’t need. Her colleagues would insist on lifting heavy packages for her, fixing computer issues she had already fixed, or re-explaining something to a customer that she had just explained to them—while she was still standing there.


“I believe the offers of help were intended to be innocuous or even well-intentioned, but the subtle ways in which they devalued female authority and competence were harmful to the work atmosphere and caused a lot of resentment across gender lines,” Claire says. “While it is true that some customers will cooperate faster or give greater respect to male authority, the solution is not to solidify that misconception by letting a man step in every time to make things move faster.”

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Claire, now the office manager at Joseph Farzam Law Firm, is one of many women who have faced workplace sexism at the hands of co-workers who think they are being polite, helpful, or chivalrous. But this behavior actually undermines women and makes it more difficult for them to succeed at work.
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“Chivalrous behavior that undermines women at work fits into the category of benevolent sexism,” says psychology professor Peter Glick. That’s different from hostile sexism, which is when someone believes women are inherently lesser than men or objectifies women and views them only as sexual objects.
As for what benevolent sexism actually means, Glick and psychology professor Susan Fiske explained it in a 1996 paper they wrote together: “We define benevolent sexism as a set of interrelated attitudes toward women that are sexist in terms of viewing women stereotypically and in restricted roles but that are subjectively positive in feeling tone (for the perceiver) and also tend to elicit behaviors typically categorized as prosocial (e.g., helping) or intimacy-seeking (e.g., self-disclosure).”
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Examples of benevolent sexism in the workplace include: asking women to take on planning or note-taking tasks because they are assumed to be better at these tasks than men, focusing on a woman’s appearance and personality rather than the results of her work, apologizing to only the women in the room after using a profane word, male colleagues insisting on taking over difficult tasks, and so on.
“Benevolent sexism is not necessarily experienced as benevolent by the recipient,” Glick and Fiske explained in their paper. “For example, a man’s comment to a female coworker on how ‘cute’ she looks, however well-intentioned, may undermine her feelings of being taken seriously as a professional.”
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This type of benevolently sexist behavior can be difficult to deal with. In many cases, the perpetrators truly believe they are acting appropriately and don’t understand why women might find their behavior demeaning or disruptive. People don’t want to confront their co-workers or cause bad feelings, particularly in close-knit workplaces.
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A number of women told HealthyWay they didn’t feel like they could discuss this sort of treatment with their bosses or HR departments because it wasn’t obviously offensive. But these actions, which get in the way of women doing their jobs and prevent them from bonding with their co-workers, are just another thing making workplaces unwelcoming to women.

Constant, everyday sexism can be incredibly frustrating.

“I’ve had my share of encounters with male bosses and colleagues who have walked right into the world of sexism, most often without any bad intentions,” says Lisa Barone, the chief marketing officer at creative agency Overit. She remembers men interrupting her, using sexist language, stepping in to “help explain what she meant” to clients, and generally treating her like she was less experienced, eloquent, or capable than her male colleagues.

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“I had a colleague not long ago who spoke to me like I was an idiot,” she recalls. “It didn’t matter that I was equal to him on the company hierarchy or that I had owned my own agency previously; he was constantly explaining to me how business worked, how to present myself in meetings, how to dress so men would take me seriously, and generally how to exist in an office environment. He thought he was helping and showing me the ropes, very much oblivious that I didn’t need the assistance.”
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Another major issue was men cutting her off in meetings. “Most men don’t realize they are doing it, but it happens a lot more to my female co-workers and to myself than to the other men in the room,” she says. “Men interrupt only to make the same point or to finish the thought I was trying to make. They, of course, then get the praise for the comment shared.”
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Barone also says a number of men have exhibited white knight syndrome—treating her like a damsel in distress who needs to be rescued from an imaginary danger. “For example, a male colleague who expressed—loud—concern to another gentlemen that I am married, and therefore he should watch how he speaks to me,” she says. “In doing so, he implied the only reason the man was speaking to me was because he wanted to sleep with me; he also took away my own ability to set up my own boundaries or to stand up for myself if I felt I needed it. Before you act like a white horse, make sure one is wanted.”

Gender discrimination in the workplace is illegal, but it can be hard to crack down on sexism disguised as chivalry.

Nonetheless, these so-called harmless interactions can affect women’s career satisfaction, workplace happiness, and even their professional progress.

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Research has suggested that women who came to expect benevolent sexism in their workplace “became unsure of themselves, got distracted, and consequently performed poorly.”
Women surrounded by male colleagues who seem to underestimate them, treat them as though they are delicate, and assume they cannot tackle difficult tasks may find themselves resentful. Women in this position must also dedicate time to finding ways to tackle this treatment, rather than focusing on their work.
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“In the face of such circumstances now, I have learned to stand my ground,” says Claire. “I politely, but firmly, dismiss the ‘help,’ and proceed to show co-workers and customers alike that they don’t need a man—they have me.”
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If a woman is being patronized in the workplace, this can also affect how her colleagues and customers view her. Research shows that people who witness a woman repeatedly being treated “chivalrously” by a man—for example, he insists on pulling out chairs for her—will view that woman as less independent.

A number of organizations are working to change companies for the better by making them less sexist.

Eileen Scully was fed up with experiencing sexism in the workplace. So she founded a consulting firm, The Rising Tides, which focuses on ways to improve companies for women. She says reshaping corporate culture can make a tremendous difference.

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“A big part of my consulting practice looks at what defines each individual corporate culture,” she says. “What are [the] systemic problems, what [behaviors] are invisible to the executive layer, and what practices and policies are driving behaviors? For example, at its most basic level, what positions of power and influence do women at your organization hold? How often are women present during strategic planning and decision sessions?”
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Once she has gathered that information, her firm looks at the structures and practices that make a workplace sexist or hostile to women. They then figure out what changes the company can commit to, as well as a reasonable time frame for implementing these changes.
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“I also encourage companies and individuals who want to invest in their women to look carefully at the companies they hire or who sponsor the workshops to which they’re sending employees,” she says. “Right now, many of them are still run by all men. And I find it a little disingenuous that they’re profiting from hosting women’s leadership sessions, but they’re not doing anything inside. We can do much better than that.”
Scully says organizations need to truly want to make lasting change—not just tick a box and say an issue is resolved.

Oftentimes, people are really just trying to be kind to their co-workers, and many people who are benevolently sexist genuinely don’t realize their behavior is a problem.

But if something makes you uncomfortable or affects your job, you should feel free to say something. It’s important that you don’t feel discriminated against at work—and chances are, your co-workers want you to feel valued, too. Simply flag the behavior you found problematic and explain what the issue is. While it’s annoying that you sometimes need to be the agent of change, rather than people independently recognizing their own bad behavior, advocating for yourself in the workplace can be invaluable.

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Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Busting Botox Myths And Misconceptions

I had never been nervous about going to the dermatologist until the morning of my first Botox appointment. I was 26 years old and about to pay a lot of money for someone to inject tiny doses of a toxin into my armpits to prevent me from sweating. I’d spent weeks doing research—how did Botox work? Did it hurt? How long would it last? What were the potential side effects? Most of all, would I regret this?
Botox, or Botulinum toxin, comes from a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. In large doses, the toxin is lethal, but small doses have been FDA approved for a variety of cosmetic and medical purposes.

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Until I started thinking about underarm Botox, I didn’t know much about Botox—at all. There are so many myths and misconceptions surrounding Botox, so let’s set the record straight.

MYTH: Botox can get rid of all facial lines and wrinkles.

REALITY: Only certain facial lines and wrinkles can be treated with Botox.

Wrinkles and lines on your face are completely natural, and a variety of things can cause them—including normal muscle movements, sun damage, the aging process, smoking, and some medications. Botox works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles it’s injected into, which stops those muscles from moving and causes wrinkles to relax. So, Botox only really works on lines and wrinkles caused by muscle movement in the first place, like forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines.

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“Botox treats dynamic wrinkles, which develop from movement,” says Joseph Cruise, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon. “Botox improves the appearance of these wrinkles by relaxing the muscles. Static wrinkles are the result of sun exposure and aging. These wrinkles do not respond well to Botox treatment.”
There are some other cosmetic uses for Botox, too. “Botox can also be used to elevate downturned corners of the mouth, to reduce a cobblestone or dimpling on the chin, to sculpt the jawline, prevent the tip of the nose from moving downward when smiling, and to prevent vertical neck bands from showing,” says Cruise.
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And if you do have static wrinkles that you’re self-conscious about, Cruise says you can get fillers to help lessen their appearance. And no, Botox and fillers are not the same thing—more on that later.

MYTH: Botox is only useful for cosmetic treatments and is just for women.

REALITY: Botox is a great cosmetic tool, but it has a number of medical uses for people of all genders.

Botox is an awesome cosmetic tool if you choose to go that route, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with making informed aesthetic changes to your own body. It also has some medical benefits that aren’t related to appearance.

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Dacy Gaston, a registered nurse trained in injectables, says Botox can be used to help clients suffering from hyperhidrosis (excessive perspiration), bladder spasms, and eye spasms. Botox is also approved by the FDA to treat migraines (link opens PDF).
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And according to the Botox Cosmetic website, approximately 1 in 10 people who use Botox for cosmetic reasons are men. There’s nothing inherently feminine about wanting to feel confident about yourself, and something like Botox can address insecurities for people of all genders.

MYTH: Botox and fillers are the same thing.

REALITY: The two have very different purposes.

Botox and fillers are both things you inject into your face, but they serve different purposes.
“Botox relaxes wrinkles, and fillers replace volume; two different products for two different problems,” says Susan O’Malley, MD, owner and medical director of Madison Med Spa in Madison, Connecticut. “Botox works very nicely from the eyes up, and fillers work wonders from the eyes down.”

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Katerina Gallus, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon, explains it like this: “Fillers do what they suggest: ‘fill’ or restore volume to an area of the face that is lacking volume, like a wrinkle or region such as the cheeks.”
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This isn’t the same thing as Botox, which, as mentioned earlier, blocks nerve signals to certain muscles.

MYTH: Botox will “freeze” your face and stop you from emoting.

REALITY: It totally depends on how much Botox you have injected and where.

While using too much Botox can occasionally make it difficult for people to emote, it’s not a given that Botox injections will “freeze” your face or prevent you from making natural facial movements.
“Botox, performed properly, should not get rid of your important facial expressions,” explains Jacob Steiger, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon.


If you are interested in Botox but worried about a frozen look, make sure you go to a qualified provider and discuss your concerns with them beforehand. They should be able to calculate the appropriate dosage amount for your desired result.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Botox dosage has to be individually tailored to each patient, and the dose has to be left to the expert injector they have chosen. Getting the proper dose based on your individual needs is key to having a beautiful and successful result.”
—Edward Alvarez, cosmetic dentist[/pullquote]
“If injected by a qualified provider who listens to your goals and discusses expectations, you can create a softening and natural result with Botox,” says Gallus. “This is dependent on the dose and the technique of the injector and is an important reason to seek out credentialed providers and not the ‘discount’ deal.”
Because Botox is so patient-dependent, it’s hard to predict how much you’ll need until you have spoken with your doctor about it.

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“Patients cannot base how much Botox they need because it’s the amount of units their friend gets,” says Edward Alvarez, a cosmetic dentist. “A 5-foot, 105-pound woman may look ‘perfect’ after 20 units of Botox, but those same 20 units will barely do anything to the 6’4” former pro linebacker that wants to look younger. Botox dosage has to be individually tailored to each patient, and the dose has to be left to the expert injector they have chosen. Getting the proper dose based on your individual needs is key to having a beautiful and successful result.”
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Basically, you can’t tell how much is too much by comparing yourself to other people.

MYTH: Botox can give you botulism, aka food poisoning.

REALITY: Botox is not botulism.

You may have heard of botulism—a rare but severe illness caused by a toxin that attacks the nerves in your body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, botulism is usually spread by food (specifically, “improperly home-canned, preserved, or fermented foods”), and the symptoms include double vision, droopy eyelids, slurred speech, trouble breathing, and muscle paralysis.

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“Botox is made from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism,” Cruise says. “When certain foods are not stored properly, this bacteria can grow. When a person ingests the bacteria, it multiplies and spreads through the bloodstream. This process releases a protein named Botulinum toxin, which is the active ingredient in Botox. The toxin attaches to the nerves on large muscles such as those responsible for breathing or those in the arms and legs. This can make it difficult to breathe, walk, or perform other movements. For this to happen, the live bacteria must multiply and continue releasing large amounts of the toxin. When Botox is used for cosmetic purposes, more toxin is not produced. Also, such a low dose of Botox is used compared to the amount needed to cause these side effects, and the amount of Botox used in cosmetic treatments is not enough to enter the bloodstream and spread to other muscles.”
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So while cosmetic Botox and botulism are derived from the same bacteria, the two are very different: Botox used for cosmetic and medical purposes is approved by medical professionals and generally extremely safe.
“The Botulinum toxin used for cosmetic and medical purposes is not the same concentration as that found in bubbled-up cans of food,” explains Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. “It remains local in the muscle into which it was injected and has never been reported to cause systemic paralysis and respiratory failure.”
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To lessen your risk of getting botulism from food, the CDC recommends following safe home canning practices if you preserve food at home.

In conclusion, Botox is nothing to be scared of.

I was incredibly nervous going into my first appointment for underarm injections, but the whole thing was a breeze. My dermatologist put a numbing cream on each armpit and left it for a while to work, then came in 20 minutes later and gave me around 15 super quick injections on each side. It took less than two minutes, barely hurt at all, and there was no bruising or pain after the fact. And a few weeks after that first appointment, I danced the night away in my wedding dress without worrying about sweat patches appearing on my gown.

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If you’re into the idea of Botox, whether for cosmetic or medical reasons, just make sure you have done adequate research. Plus, you should get the treatment from a licensed medical professional who can talk you through your options and choose the right dosage for you.
Some people may assign a value judgment to Botox, but the fact remains that it’s a safe, FDA-approved tool that can make a big difference for certain individuals. I know it did for me.

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Healthy Her Way Lifestyle Uncategorized

SWEAT Trainer Kelsey Wells

This week’s Healthy Her Way feature needs no introduction—but we’re going to try our best to put into words just how incredible this woman truly is. With 1.3 million followers (and counting) on Instagram, Kelsey Wells definitely knows how to inspire and empower people across the world—and we can’t help but fangirl over this talented mama.
When our editorial team first sat down at HealthyWay HQ to discuss who our biggest sources of motivation were in the fitness scene, one name was spoken by almost every single woman in the room. “Kelsey Wells! I follow her workouts all the time!” and “I love her posts on Instagram, she keeps it so real!” were some of the excited comments shared amongst our team.
One can’t help but wonder if Kelsey ever envisioned just how much her postpartum fitness journey would motivate people she’s never met. But that’s exactly what has transpired since Kelsey began to share her story just a few years ago.
Shortly after giving birth to her son, Anderson, about four years ago, Kelsey’s doctor recommended exercise to help her combat postpartum anxiety. Prior to this point in time, proper nutrition and regular exercise were not priorities in Kelsey’s daily life, but she knew she needed to make changes in order to learn to love herself again and appreciate her body.  
In an Instagram post, Kelsey shared that she struggled with her fitness journey at first and fell off track a few times (it happens to the best of us), but she didn’t let that stop her hustle.  
“There is no secret to my transformation. There is simply four years of hard work and consistency. Of trying and failing and learning and pushing forward. You don’t need hours in a gym or extreme diets. You need a healthy mindset and to never give up on yourself,” she wrote.
Kelsey’s message of perseverance and self-love is so important, and we admire how she uses her platform to share these motivational messages with those who may need to hear these words the most.
With her family, friends, and husband Ryan in her corner, Kelsey has created an extremely supportive community of women who want to prioritize exercise and a positive mindset in their daily lives. As a SWEAT trainer and the creator of the PWR workout programs, Kelsey provides something for everyone, regardless of where you are on your fitness journey. She even has crafted workouts for fellow mothers in all stages of pregnancy and postpartum fitness.
The more we get to know the woman behind the workouts, the more we’re in awe of all that Kelsey has accomplished in such a short amount of time. We couldn’t be more honored to share this feature with our readers and can’t wait to see what else Kelsey will accomplish in the years to come.
HealthyWay

A Day in the Life

What does your daily routine look like?

Anderson wakes me up at 6 a.m. ready to start the day. He’s the best alarm clock.
Then meditation: Five minutes of focus or inspirational talks every morning. This helps me to center myself and mentally prepare for the day ahead.
Skin care: I wash my face every morning and hydrate my skin with moisturiser. I make sure I moisturise my entire body.
Breakfast: Usually scrambled egg whites and vegetables or greek yogurt with honey and berries.
Get dressed for the day ahead: I liked to get dressed for the day pretty early on; this helps to set the tone of the day
11:30 to 12:30 p.m.: This is my time to get my workout in.
12:30 to 1:30 p.m.: I create all of my social content while at the gym.
1:30 to 5 p.m.: Afternoons are my hours to work on program development, creating more content, writing posts, responding to emails, and meetings with my team.

What are your favorite ways to practice self-care?

I take a very holistic approach to self-care. I always try and view my body from a place of positivity and appreciation. This helps me to prioritize my exercise and incorporate the right foods into my day—because I deserve to take care of my body.
The ways in which I practice self-care are through:

  1. Daily exercise, whether it be my PWR program, a hike, or chasing Anderson around the house. Being active and taking care of my body is important for not only my physical health but, more importantly, my mental health.
  2. Consuming a balanced diet: Fueling my body with nutrient-rich foods gives me the energy to take on my day.
  3. Meditation: Daily meditation helps me to center myself and mentally prepare myself to achieve everything I need to throughout the day.

How do you stay inspired?

I practice what I preach—I want to be happy and healthy and have a quality life with my family.
The women in my community also inspire me every day. They are the reason I do what I do. I found my true passion in fitness and truly have my dream job!
HealthyWay

HealthyWay
Photo by Edin Chavez

Disclaimer: Just so you know, if you order an item through one of our posts, we may get a small share of the sale.

Loving Lately…

What are the best products you’ve discovered recently?

What are your favorite apps?

  • Sweat app
  • Bedtime function within the clock app on Apple phones
  • Instagram

Whose Instagram is on your radar? #squadgoals #gramlove #hashtag

I love following the journeys of my community by looking at the #PWR, #PWRprogram and #KelseyWellsPWR hashtags. Their achievements inspire me to continue to work hard as a SWEAT trainer.

What’s your go-to healthy snack?

For me, one of the biggest keys to eating healthy is making sure that I never let myself get too hungry. I try to eat every two to three hours. I have a few go-to snacks that I keep on hand, which include homemade protein balls and raw veggies and fresh fruit.

What are you reading, watching, or listening to?

I’m currently re-reading You are a Badass by Jen Sincero. I love listening to or reading anything motivational. My favorite movie is The Greatest Showman—I also love the soundtrack.
HealthyWay
HealthyWay

Kelsey IRL

What is your bucket list travel destination?

Tahiti

What woman in history would you love to take to brunch?

I would love to go to brunch with Rosa Parks!

What are you really great at (that might embarrass you to admit)?

My dancing skills aren’t too shabby. You may have recently seen an Instagram story where I was attempting to “floss”—pretty successfully if I might add 😉

What piece of advice has impacted you the most?

A good friend told me that what people think of you is none of your business, meaning you can’t control how you are perceived so live true to yourself, be a genuine person, and don’t let the opinions of others tear you down!
HealthyWay
HealthyWay
To follow along with Kelsey as she navigates motherhood and continues to change lives with her fitness content, be sure to follow her on Instagram and download the SWEAT app.

Categories
Lifestyle Well-Traveled

Good To Go: Travel Essentials You Shouldn’t Leave Without

Packing for a trip is so stressful, I sometimes think it would be nice to have a crystal ball. After all, in just one afternoon you’re expected to conceptualize an entire week’s worth of outfits while trying to take into account your mood, the weather, and any unexpected plans. But even beyond having the perfect outfit (and shoes…and accessories), there are plenty of travel essentials that completely slip your mind come packing time. Suddenly you find yourself buckled in for an eight-hour flight in a dried-out cabin, searching feverishly for your lip balm.
We have all been there. And it is truly the worst. So to make sure you never find yourself in an ohh, I wish I had that moment again, we’ve rounded up the best travel essentials for your toiletry kit and beyond. Though these things might not have been at the top of your list before, this will surely become your go-to travel essentials checklist.

Travel Essentials for Health

Flying isn’t always a smooth experience. Rough air can lead to anxiety and sometimes even nausea and sickness. Insomnia is also a major villain when it comes to air travel. Fortunately, our experts have holistic tools at the ready to help.

Supplements

“I take a multivitamin and lots of vitamin C, like Emergen-C or Airborne, to boost my immune system while traveling,” says Tiffany Dowd, a global hotel expert and founder of Luxe Social Media and Luxe Tiffany. “In addition, I take magnesium supplements to help regulate my sleep, and I find it also helps my jet lag.”

Resistance Bands

Exercise post-flight is also crucial to fighting jet lag. Dowd travels with resistance bands to get a quick workout in her hotel room.

Your Fave Tea

“If I’m feeling run down after traveling, I have the hotel make me a cup of fresh-brewed ginger tea,” Dowd shares. “It’s soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties.”

Travel Essentials for Nourishment

There’s nothing worse than an inevitable airplane hangry moment. Sadly, airplane food isn’t the tastiest, and it’s never the healthiest option.

Water Bottle

“I never leave home without an empty water bottle. It saves money so you’re not constantly buying water in the airport and during the trip,” says Debbie Arcangeles, host of the podcast The Offbeat Life, a series committed to highlighting those who live location-independent lives. “I also fill the water bottle before I board the plane, so I don’t have to keep asking for water during the flight.”

Snacks

“I always pack high-protein granola bars and raw almonds, which I portion into snack-size bags,” says Dowd. “These are quick energy snacks that are easy to pack.”
“I always travel with Quest and One protein bars, because a hungry Sarah is an angry Sarah,” says Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, Caribbean travel expert and owner of JetSetSarah.
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Tech Travel Essentials

Air travel is a perfect excuse to catch up on anything you ordinarily don’t have time for. Because you won’t have cell service and might not want to pay for wifi, you’ve got the perfect excuse to pause work to enjoy a little you time with the help of these high-tech touches.

Your Gadgets…and Noise-Canceling Headphones to Go With Them

“I need my iPhone, of course,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “I’m currently looking for a pair of noise-canceling headphones to block out other people’s noise when I work in public spaces.”

Portable Charger

Greaves-Gabbadon, Dowd, and Arcangeles all recommend a portable charger for cell phones, as well.

Kindle

“I always have my e-reader with backlight,” says Arcangeles. “It’s a space saver, and I can even read when the lights are out so I don’t disturb the other passengers. It’s also great to have when your flight is delayed or when you have a long layover.”
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Travel Essentials for Beauty

Dry, cold air, a change in pressure, and lots of sitting can wreak havoc on a beauty regimen. Still, there are ways to maintain healthy skin while traveling with a few simple must-have beauty travel essentials for your toiletry kit.

Face Wipes

“I love having face wipes with me on the plane, especially during long flights. I can feel refreshed and clean right away,” says Arcangeles.

Sunscreen

“I always wear sunscreen when flying. You are actually exposed more to the sun’s harmful rays up in the air,” says Dowd. She recommends EltaMD UV Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen ($26) because it’s light and blends well under makeup.

Eye Cream

“I splurge on La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Cream ($460), which is so soothing under your eyes and prevents dryness,” Dowd says. She also recommends the Malin + Goetz Replenishing Face Serum ($70) for facial hydration on a flight.

Travel Makeup

“I keep travel makeup to a minimum,” Dowd says. “I love wearing a dab of NARS Illuminator ($30). It gives you an instantly refreshed and beautiful look.” She also recommends powder bronzer by Bobbi Brown ($44) and a lengthening mascara like Lancôme Définicils ($27.50).

Lip Balm

“I discovered Lanolips 101 Ointment Superbalm ($17) and it’s since become my go-to for my chronically dry lips and cuticles,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.
[products ids=’1005491,1005493,1005500,1005502,1005504,1005510,1005512,1005513′ type=full]

Travel Essentials for Comfort

Airplanes are incredibly cold—and dry. The air at 30,000 feet can’t hold much moisture, and adding it to the airstream in an airplane is very difficult. Flying with 300 passengers also means the flight attendants aren’t going to change the temperature just for your frozen toes.

Eye Mask

“I must have an eye mask because I take a lot of early morning flights to the Caribbean, and there is always someone in my row who just has to have the window shade open,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.

Foot Hammock

“On long-haul flights I always bring a foot hammock,” Greaves-Gabbadon says. “I’m only 4’9” so my feet don’t touch the ground on many aircraft. The straps fit over the tray table and then I just slip my feet in. It’s way more comfy than having my feet just dangle (and swell) for hours.”

Eye Drops

“I always pack rewetting eye drops, as the air is so dry on airplanes,” says Dowd.

Compression Socks

“I was recently on a 16-hour flight from Hong Kong to Boston, and on a long-haul flight like this I always wear compression socks to prevent deep vein thrombosis,” Dowd says. “I find my legs are more relaxed and less swollen when I land.”

Don’t forget your passport!

We asked our experts for anything else they like to bring with them on their trips that makes the journey a little more personal. Interestingly enough, all of their answers had to do with their passports.
“I never leave home without my passport,” says Dowd. “Whether it’s domestic or international, I’m ready to go anywhere at any time. I also always keep an extra copy of it somewhere in my bags as well as a digital copy on my phone.”
“I just got the most stylish red leather passport case from Anya Hindmarch,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “It zips around so nothing falls out, has plenty of pockets for cards, and it’s personalized with “JetSetSarah” on the front. I won’t leave home without it.”

What to Wear on the Plane

We all want to feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible on an airplane. Still, there are some travelers who take this a little too far and show up for a flight as if they are turning in for the night. Pajamas on an airplane is not the most pulled-together look. But today’s trends tend to favor comfort and function, so it’s not difficult to throw together a stylish plane outfit that you don’t mind sitting in for hours.
“I’m usually in dark pants, ballet flats like Chanel or Paul Mayer, which are easy to get off in security, and a comfortable top, such as a ¾-sleeve top or tee from Michael Stars or Three Dots,” says Dowd. She also always brings her Hermès pashmina, which doubles as a stylish scarf and also keeps her warm during the flight. Tip: When wearing ballet flats, don’t forget to wear your no-show socks—no one wants to walk barefoot through security.
“I bring a light, long jacket to wear over my outfit,” she adds. “I’ve just discovered this new brand called Anatomie, which is super stylish and comfortable travel wear.”
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“I am a big believer in wearing anything that is a one piece, like maxi dresses and jumpsuits,” says Arcangeles. “It’s a lot less stressful to figure out how to put together an outfit, and they are super comfortable to wear while still looking stylish.”
“Most often I wear boyfriend jeans, a T-shirt, and an adidas track jacket,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “On longer-haul flights I might swap the jeans for something softer, like harem pants or track pants. And nine times out of ten, wherever I’m flying, I’m in adidas sneakers. I’m quite the sneaker head. I customize them with Hickies so they’re easy to remove at security.”

Categories
Life x Culture Lifestyle

10 Ways To Practice Self-Care When You're On A Budget

We know: We’ve all been brainwashed into thinking that self-care involves expensive spas, luxury body scrubs, weekend getaways, and one million dollar face cream from GOOP.
Not so!
Let’s be real: Most of us can’t afford any of these things. That doesn’t mean we don’t deserve a little self-care. And here’s the thing: Self-care can be anything. The point is that it’s something that feeds you that doesn’t involve work.
It’s a time for you to replenish your body, mind, and soul—yes, it might sound lofty, but you don’t need big bucks to do it.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to take care of myself on little cash:

1. Take a bath.

This is my #1 self-care strategy. I do it almost nightly (sorry, California drought). It’s my favorite way to unplug from the day, which means I don’t bring in any devices. (I’m also afraid of dropping an iPad in the water.) Pick up a favorite magazine or dig into a killer novel, pour yourself a glass of rosé, and let Calgon take you away.

2. Make your own yummy vat of chai (iced coffee, iced tea, etc.) that you can dip into for a day or two.

I often use coffee or tea as a self-soother—if I’m out and need a lift, I’ll pop into a café for a treat. But that adds up over time (and all those paper cups are awful for the environment). I’m always delighted when I think ahead and make myself a vat of chai that I can just pour first thing in the morning, either over ice or heated on the stove.

3. Practice yoga/pilates while following an online tutorial.

No money? No problem. Classes are always best (a teacher should be checking your alignment once in a while!), but sometimes you don’t have the cash or time to make a class. Check out an online tutorial instead. You can do it at 5 a.m. or 10 p.m.!

4. Go for a walk-and-talk with a friend.

Make exercise social. Or make exercise less exercise-y. I often meet a friend 30 minutes before preschool pickup and we do a couple of laps around the block, catch up on the day, and get our heart rates up a bit (the walking and talking helps with this!). Best of all: It’s completely free and usually full of laughs.

5. Meditate with an app.

There are loads to choose from, but my favorite is Headspace. There’s a guided meditation for whatever mood you’re in.

6. Go to one exercise class a week. Just one. Schedule your life around it.

I’ve started attending an 8 a.m. Pilates class in my neighborhood on Saturdays. It’s hard for me to get to classes during the week, and with a small kid, it’s tricky to do stuff by myself over the weekend. But slipping out first thing on Saturday for an hour seems doable. Put it in the schedule and alert your partner, family, or babysitter that this time is sacred and non-negotiable.

7. Go for a long walk/hike/run while listening to your favorite podcast.

It’s fine to listen to Forever 35 while doing dishes, but it’s even better to do it while running, hiking, biking, or walking.

8. Don’t text your friends—call them.

This one is especially important if you have moved far from home/college/friends/family. My BFF and I have started just calling each other at random—no more phone dates (those never work)—and hoping the other picks up. If your bestie isn’t free? Just leave a long, rambling message. It’s always a joy to hear her voice (even if it’s just on a machine), and I get a little caught up on her life.

9. Buy some of your favorite color polish and do your own nails.

Manis and pedis get expensive, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t have beautiful nails! Buy your fave colors at the drugstore and go nuts.

10. Enjoy the subscriptions you have.

Netflix, Hulu, Spotify—enjoy! But make sure you are using all the ones you’re paying for. Binge watch away (that’s the self-care part), but make sure you aren’t paying for something you’re not using to stay under budget.

Categories
Lifestyle Well-Traveled

How To Plan Last-Minute Trips (Without The Stress!)

Ever feel that urge to get out of town, like, now? Anyone who’s been bitten by the travel bug (or regularly craves a change of scenery) has felt the intense need to take a last-minute trip. But between choosing a destination, booking flights and hotels, and figuring out what you’ll do when you actually get there, it can sometimes take months to plan a vacation. Wondering how you can plan all of that in a day?
Stay calm—last-minute trips can be every bit as invigorating as vacations you’ve planned in advance, and they definitely don’t have to stress you out.
There’s a certain art to pulling together a last-minute trip, though. You’ve got to have a sense of which destinations work best for spontaneous adventures, what types of activities you can do spur-of-the-moment, and where to book affordable flights and hotels just days before you go. Once your bases are covered, all that’s left is figuring out what to bring. (But don’t worry, we’ve got a packing list that can help!)
Here are some tips on booking a last-minute trip, so you can embrace your spontaneity, sans stress.

Rethinking Your Approach to Vacation

Think about the last time you booked a major vacation. You probably came up with a specific experience in a specific destination (road-tripping the California coastline! wine-tasting throughout Burgundy! swimming with the pigs in the Bahamas!) and made it happen. Cheers to you for crossing those must-have experiences off your travel bucket list.
But for a last-minute trip, you’ll need to be a lot more flexible. Think more broadly about the type of experience you’d like to have, such as a tropical beach getaway, couple’s retreat in the mountains, or outdoor adventure with the entire family. Then, research a variety of potential destinations that offer those experiences to see which have the best bargains for a last-minute trip. Rarely is one type of experience confined to a specific destination (except maybe those swimming piggies).
If you're lucky enough to book a last-minute trip to the Bahamas, you could be swimming with the pigs in no time.
“Most people that are planning last-minute trips just want to go somewhere, usually wherever’s the cheapest,” says Courtnie Nichols, a travel concierge and founder of TravelBash. “So I ask questions about what they might be looking for, like a health and wellness trip or a girlfriends’ getaway or romantic vacation, and offer them three ideas that fit that theme.”
You might be dying to jet off to Waikiki this weekend, but unless you score the right deal on flights and hotels, a last-minute trip to Hawaii might be out of the question for your budget.
Instead, think about why you wanted to go to Waikiki: Was it the glorious beaches? Luxe hotels? Animal attractions? Narrow down what drew you to that destination, then seek out places that offer a similar experience, such as the Caribbean.
That will allow you to have the kind of last-minute trip you crave without draining your travel fund. And who knows—you might find you like the alternative destination even more than the spot you had originally dreamed of.

Where to Find Cheap, Last-Minute Airline Tickets

So you’ve picked your destination, and you’re ready to work out the details. How do you find cheap last-minute flights?
You’ll need to be strategic…and a little bit lucky. First, learn which websites and apps tend to have the best last-minute flight deals. Kayak, SkyScanner, Google Flights, and Hopper are some of Nichols’ favorites to use for airline tickets. Then, find ways to outsmart the airlines.
“Enable private browsing [such as incognito mode on Google Chrome] when you’re looking for flights for last-minute trips. Websites can track when you’re searching and they might raise the prices. Be smarter than the airlines,” says Nichols.
The day and time you search for travel deals also matters when it comes to how much you’ll pay for a last-minute trip. Sundays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are the best time to book flights, says Nichols.
“Don’t even ask why I’m sometimes looking at flights at 2 a.m. or 4 a.m., but any time after midnight, you can get good deals,” she explains, with a laugh.
Another way to potentially find a bargain flight for a last-minute trip: Look for two one-way tickets as opposed to a round-trip booking. That trick doesn’t always work, but when it does, you can save big, says Nichols.
Sometimes, third-party websites and blogs can clue you into cheap flight options that might inspire you to take a last-minute trip. Check out The Flight Deal, which posts about flights that go on sale to destinations around the world. (Last December, that site posted about a flight deal to Mexico City that lead to a spur-of-the-moment getaway with one of my besties.)
If you’re on a tight budget for a last-minute trip, consider driving to a destination. It might be less expensive than booking flights for everyone in the family, and it’s always nice to have your own set of wheels when you’re on vacation.

Booking a Hotel Room for Last-Minute Travel

Now that you’ve figured out where you’re headed for your last-minute trip and how you’re getting there, it’s time to find a place to stay.
Waiting until the last minute to book your hotel rooms can work out in your favor, says Nichols.
“Everyone says book early, but what happens if you wait is that a lot of resorts and hotels look at their inventory, and if they have space, they send out last-minute hotel deals,” she says.
The best way to find out about cheap last-minute hotel rooms is to sign up for loyalty programs at the major hotel and resort brands, such as Sandals, Hilton, and Hyatt, Nichols adds. The companies will serve their best offers right into your inbox.
Waiting to book a hotel room until the last minute can actually work out in your favor when planning a last-minute trip.
Most travelers rely exclusively on the internet to make their bookings, but picking up the phone can give you access to travel deals that aren’t being distributed online.
“Hotels and campgrounds often have last-minute cancellations,” says Bill Widmer, who runs The Wandering RV. “It’s often easy to call them to see if they have any openings. You’ll typically get a good deal if they do.”
Conventional hotels aren’t the only places to stay, though. A number of alternative accommodations provide an array of choices (and price points!) for your home away from home, says Calvin Iverson, travel expert at TravelPirates.
“If you find that all of the cheaper hotel rooms are already booked for the week you’re planning to travel, expand your search to other options like Airbnb and HomeAway,” he explains. “Glamping is also becoming more and more popular on these platforms, and it’s no wonder—it’s the perfect compromise for those who love the outdoors but don’t want to skimp on convenience.”
You can also score deals on hotel rooms for a last-minute trip. But keep in mind: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Check reviews on TripAdvisor before booking accommodations at rock-bottom rates. (There might be a reason that “4-star” hotel has tons of rooms available at bargain prices on a holiday weekend!)

When to Use a Travel Agent

Websites and apps have made it easier than ever to make your own travel arrangements. But there are still some pretty compelling reasons to work with a travel agent, especially when you’re in the mood for a last-minute trip. And surprisingly, it won’t cost you much (if anything!).
“A lot of travel agents don’t charge a fee—they make money on the back-end from the hotels they book for their clients,” says Nichols.
Travel agents are in the know about trends and can give you last-minute trip ideas that never would have crossed your mind. They also have access to special prices on hotels and travel packages that aren’t published elsewhere.
“I get travel deals in my inbox all the time that the public isn’t getting. When I see one that I think a client might like, I get in touch with them to see if they’re interested,” says Nichols.
Relationships with hotels and resorts are at the heart of a travel agent’s business. They leverage those partnerships to ensure that clients are treated like royalty during their stay, which increases the value (but not the price!) of a last-minute trip.
“Travel agents can get you extra perks and upgrades. Plus, they take the headache out of planning a last-minute trip,” adds Nichols.
With the right travel agent, you can jet off on the trip of your dreams in just a few short days—within budget and without the stress.

Ready to Travel—At Any Time

Want to be able to indulge your inner adventurer and jump on any amazing travel deal you come across? (Who doesn’t?) Then you better have all your ducks in a row long before you try to plan a last-minute trip. And by ducks, we mean travel documents and related materials.
“Your passport is the most important thing,” says Nichols. “I tell all clients, even if they’re cruising from a U.S. port and reentering in the U.S., that they better have a passport. You never know when the rules will change and politics will come into play.”
Before jetting off to a new country, make sure that your passport isn’t expiring anytime soon. Many destinations require that you have at least six months left before it expires. And double check that you have plenty of blank pages available for stamps and visas.
Anything can happen before or during a journey, especially on a last-minute trip. Travel insurance can help you troubleshoot major issues and reimburse some of your expenses, should you need to cancel reservations.
Going abroad? Check if your health insurance policy will cover you if you get sick or injured in another country. When in doubt, consider investing in travel medical insurance ahead of a last-minute trip.
Finally, a travel-focused credit card proves endlessly useful for people who love to be on the road. You’ll typically pay a hefty annual fee, but the card will give you access to helpful amenities, like rental car insurance, airport lounge passes, travel assistance, hotel room upgrades, money to reimburse you for expenses incurred during travel hiccups (like a lost bag), and tons more. Plus, travel credit cards generally allow you to make purchases around the world without paying foreign transaction fees (because why pay extra for those souvenirs?).

Making the Most of Your Last-Minute Trip

When it comes to last-minute trips, you might have only had time to book a flight and a hotel room before leaving town. How are you going to fill your days once you get to the destination?
“You can plan almost all the activities you want to do on a last-minute trip once you arrive,” says Nichols. “Depending on where you go, the hotel or resort will have a concierge or staff at the front desk who can give you a list of all the fun things to do.”
Whether you want to have a candlelit dinner with a view, an exhilarating ATV adventure, a day of guided sightseeing, or recommendations on the best neighborhoods for a stroll, you can get all the info (and make the arrangements) at the hotel.
An ATV ride through a beautiful landscape could be a great activity for a last-minute trip.
On a last-minute trip, you might not be able to score tickets to the hottest show in town (sorry, Hamilton fans) or reservations at the best restaurant during peak dinner hours, but there will always be fun things to do. Don’t be afraid to ask locals and other travelers for recommendations, says Nichols.
“I was in Puerto Rico talking to locals, and they told me about an amazing jazz place. They can also tell you about activities and where the best bars are,” she adds.
A wide-open schedule is a beautiful thing on a last-minute trip. Relish in the things you love most, whether that’s adrenaline-fueled activities, deep-dives into foreign culture, or just lounging on the beach. And even if you don’t do everything on your list, there’s no need for FOMO—just start planning your next vacation!

Categories
Life x Culture Lifestyle

Experts Explain How To Save Money Realistically

The struggle to save money is real.
With regular monthly responsibilities (rent, mortgage, car insurance, health insurance, cell service, and more) along with fun expenditures like your monthly yoga pass or happy hours with co-workers, expenses add up fast.
Fortunately, there are concrete changes you can make to your routine to help you save more money every month without completely killing your lifestyle.
Whether you’re saving up for a down payment, dream vacation, retirement, or emergency fund, we’re sharing the best ways to save more money every month—and how to stick to your plan for the long run.

Money Saving Tip #1: Shift your money mindset.

Our own beliefs about money and the beliefs of those around us impact our actions regarding money. “You have to be intentional with what you allow into your environment: what information you’re consuming and what you’re exposing yourself to when it comes to money,” says Amanda Abella, founder and CEO of Make Money Your Honey.
What influenced you as a kid and throughout your lifetime makes a difference. Do you believe you can save a lot of money? Or do you believe that you’ll always be scraping by?
Before you can make a money-saving transformation, you have to truly believe it’s possible to accumulate wealth. “If there’s a subconscious belief that you can’t do it, you’ll sabotage yourself,” explains Abella. “People aren’t accustomed to saying what they want. But you have to allow yourself to dream in order to make your savings goals a reality.”
That’s why Abella encourages people to seek out information on wealth consciousness and money mindset. From reading books like Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill to listening to financial podcasts like Jamila Souffrant’s Journey to Launch, you can mentally condition yourself to believe wealth and financial stability are possible for you.
[pullquote align=”center”]“People aren’t accustomed to saying what they want. But you have to allow yourself to dream in order to make your savings goals a reality.”
—Amanda Abella of Make Money Your Honey[/pullquote]
Souffrant, a certified financial education instructor, blogger, podcast host, and money coach, says that shifting your mindset to “I’m going to save first, then spend what’s left” (instead of the other way around) is foundational and essential.

Money Saving Tip #2: Yes, you gotta have a budget.

If you don’t know what you’re spending compared to what you’re making, it’s difficult to make any financial progress. “A budget or spending plan is helpful because it gives you an inventory of your habits: what you spend on and where the leaks in your budget are,” explains Souffrant.  
The amount you spend per month on lattes or grocery shopping remains a mystery if you don’t track it. Luckily, you can make a budget retroactively. On a piece of paper, in a spreadsheet, or with an app, record your financial activity for the last two or three months, recommends Souffrant. Look at your credit card statements, checking accounts, and bank accounts to determine what you spend in each category. After you have this baseline, continue to track what you’re spending and where the money is going. Review each month’s budget to see where you can make changes.
“Look for repetitive patterns,” says Tanya Ince, PhD, a money coach and business consultant. “Maybe you have a monthly membership that could be canceled or downgraded.”
Ince teases: “I know coffee is important, but even $2 a day equals more than $700 a year.”

Money Saving Tip #3: Design crystal-clear goals.

“I knew that in order to start saving, I had to get clear on my ‘why,’” explains Abella. “I wanted to live by the water and run my own business. I knew it was going to require money.”
By taking time to determine her goals and how she wanted to live, she was able to calculate how much money she needed. From there, she reverse engineered her budget—knowing exactly how much she had to save.
So how can you get clear on what you want? “Identify your goal and make it specific, measurable, and timed,” encourages Ince. If your goal is to vacation to the Greek islands within the next year, estimate the total cost. “With a clear goal like this, you understand how much to save and how long you have to save that money.”
Ince suggests creating a mental or, better yet, a physical picture of your goal. Print a photo of the car you want or your dream vacation destination and put it on your fridge or computer monitor. That constant visual reminder will help keep you on track.
But quality is far better than quantity when it comes to financial goals. “If we have too many competing goals and desires, we become overwhelmed and make poor financial decisions,” explains Ince.
That’s why it’s important to pick one or two goals that are top priority. Is it a trip to Vegas or a down payment on a house? If it’s important to save for a house, you may have to forgo the trip (but don’t worry—you could always staycation as a cheaper alternative). “Some sacrifices will need to be made,” says Souffrant. “There might be times when you’ll need to cut back on things that don’t matter as much.”

Money Saving Tip #4: Automate, automate, automate.

Have you ever thought to yourself “I’ll put money in an account later” but it never happens?
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.
“Your savings should be automatic. Ideally, they should be deducted before you see your paycheck and taxes,” says Souffrant. Many employers offer options to automatically deposit money into different accounts, including savings accounts and retirement accounts.
If your employer doesn’t offer multiple direct deposits, use an app to automate your savings. “It’s easy to start saving using robo-advisors and automatic savings apps, like Acorns or Stash,” explains Ince. “You can choose the right portfolio for you and the amount to save per month. Or choose an option to invest your leftover change from each transaction.”
When your savings are automatic, you don’t have to think about it. Your saving plan is on autopilot. It’s one less decision to make.

Money Saving Tip #5: Start small—and be consistent.

“Research shows that people increase their amount of savings over time. The hardest thing is to start. So, start small and save regularly,” encourages Ince.
Souffrant admits that the delayed gratification of saving is tough. “Many people say, ‘I work hard. I deserve this. Life is short, and I can’t take my money with me.’” But it’s not about whether you deserve something. It’s about remembering that the time is going to pass anyway. If you save small amounts, you can still enjoy life. “Saving money shouldn’t be a complete deprivation; it’s about being smart about the future,” Souffrant says.
A long-term goal like buying a house or traveling internationally can seem far away. But if you save consistently over time, you will get there. Souffrant explains: “It’s kind of like going to the gym once. You won’t see a flat tummy right away.” But if you save for even five weeks, you’ll see the progress. “Stick with it, and your future self will thank you.”
“Make a commitment to increase your savings by 1 percent each year,” Ince suggests. “Time works in your favor, and it really makes sense to start early.”

Money Saving Tip #6: Identify the best places for your money.

Dropping your money into a savings account isn’t always the most lucrative option.
Where you put your money depends on what you need it for, explains Souffrant. “Everyone needs an emergency fund, which should be easily accessible funds in a savings account.” Experts recommend three to six months of living expenses be stowed away in case of a job loss or unexpected bills. Rather than putting those charges on credit cards with high interest rates, you’re accessing your own cash.
And emergency funds aren’t just to prepare for negative circumstances. “That extra money also allows you to take advantage of an unexpected opportunity, like friends taking a trip or a training class that will improve your chances in the job market,” says Abella.
In addition to easily accessed cash, you’ll want to consider funds for long-term gain, like a retirement or investment fund. “If you’re saving for something that’s not a short-term goal, consider a mutual fund, IRA, or retirement account,” explains Ince. You’ll reap more reward, like an 8 percent compounding return on an investment, over the 1 to 3 percent interest you might see in a savings account.
[pullquote align=”center”]“The longer we wait, the more money we lose. The power of time and accumulation is huge. The difference is in hundreds of thousands of dollars.”
—Tanya Ince, PhD, money coach and business consultant[/pullquote]
“Remember: Investing in stocks, mutual funds, or index funds [is] riskier but offers a much higher return over time than a savings account. So don’t invest money you need in the near term,” says Souffrant.
Abella recommends opening different saving accounts with labeled names that represent your goals: a house down payment, a trip to Thailand. “Every time you log in, you see the specific goal and what you’re working toward.”

Money Saving Tip #7: Maximize your retirement matching.

“Make contributions to your retirement plan—at least enough to maximize how much is matched by your employer,” encourages Ince. At that point, it’s basically free money.
If you have access to a 401(k) or 403(b) through your place of employment, you’ll have different options for what you can choose to invest in, says Souffrant. “Call your human resources department or plan provider to understand where your money is going.” Compare fees and average return rates to maximize growth in your retirement accounts.

Money Saving Tip #8: Consider additional income streams.

Saving more money isn’t just about limiting your spending. “We either need to increase our income or cut down on spending or both,” Ince remarks.
To add income, ask for a raise, volunteer for more hours, or take on a part-time job or side hustle. “For those without a large gap between spending and income, there isn’t much money to save. In these cases, focusing on increasing income is the best strategy.”
Abella agrees, saying that it’s important to have your money coming from different sources. Whether it’s freelancing on the side, becoming a social media influencer, waiting tables, or selling items you no longer need, you’ll be in a position for setting aside more money. “If you pick up a side gig, make sure to save that money and live off of your normal income,” reminds Abella.

Money Saving Tip #9: Seek accountability.

As with changing any habit, follow-through is where many people get stuck. Finding someone or a group to hold you accountable can make all the difference. “When we state our goals verbally, we tend to stick to them more than if we don’t,” says Ince.
“Get a close friend on board with you. Make it fun and update each other every week,” says Souffrant. When someone is supporting your journey and goals, you’re more likely to follow through.
Don’t have folks in your life who want to save money like you do? “Listen to podcasts, follow people on social media who are on the same journey, and read inspirational material to keep you focused and motivated,” Souffrant suggests. If the people around you aren’t changing, connect with online groups and resources who will help motivate you.

Money Saving Tip #10: Begin now.

“The longer we wait, the more money we lose. The power of time and accumulation is huge. The difference is in hundreds of thousands of dollars,” says Ince. If you start saving now, your interest doesn’t just accumulate on the initial amount but on the interest itself.
Ince provides an example: If you start saving $300 a month at age 25 and you do it continually (consistency is key), by the age of 65, you’ll have accumulated $1 million (assuming an 8 percent interest rate). If you wait 10 years and start at age 35, saving the same amount monthly with the same interest, you’ll only have $450,000 at 65. If you start at 45, the amount reduces to $178,000. At 55, it would only be $56,000.
But don’t be discouraged if you’re getting a later start. “Starting now is always the best choice,” says Ince. You will accumulate far more wealth by starting to save now than if you begin in 10 years—so it’s certainly better late than never, and better now than later!

Categories
Life x Culture Lifestyle

Mundane Tasks That Definitely Count As Self-Care

When I was single and in my twenties, I’d have what I affectionately referred to as “life maintenance” days. These were the days I spent catching up on all the things I had neglected to do during the other six days of the week—or, let’s be honest, the other 29 days of the month.
Can you guess what those things were? Laundry, paying bills, making doctor and dentist appointments, grocery shopping, dropping off my favorite shirts at the dry cleaner. If I was feeling really energized (or flush), I’d add in a manicure and pedicure. And when I was feeling extra special: a haircut or wax.
You can moan and groan about the mounds of laundry to be done or the fact that your fridge is totally empty, or you can look at it as a form of (quite necessary) self-care. It’s a way of making the rest of the week a little more carefree.
Think of these relatively mundane tasks as a gift to your future self! How awesome would it be to wake up and find that your favorite jeans aren’t at the bottom of a laundry pile or that you have arugula, goat cheese, and a fresh baguette in the kitchen?
So there are the obvious tasks that need to be done: Laundry. Dry Cleaning. Grocery Shopping. Call the dentist. Call the doctor. Pay the gas and electric bills. One way to confront those and make them feel like the self-care you see on Instagram? Pair them with more fun tasks:

  • After booking the dreaded doctor’s appointment, book a treat for yourself: a massage, acupuncture appointment, or an afternoon at the spa.
  • After doing your laundry, schedule a mani/pedi with a friend.
  • Stop off at your favorite cafe for a latte on the way home from the dry cleaner.
  • After you go to the grocery store, invite some friends over for wine and cheese. Major incentive.
  • While shopping for said groceries, don’t forget to buy yourself some Epsom salts and end the day soaking in the tub.
  • While shopping for said groceries and Epsom salts, call a friend you need to catch up with.
  • Listen to your favorite podcast while folding laundry and putting away dishes.
  • Make yourself your favorite cup of tea or stop by your favorite bakery for a treat before paying bills.

You get the gist—pair something sort of dull and obligatory with something more fun. Or do the obligatory thing and then reward yourself with another, more fun form of self-care!
Have you ever heard the expression “outer order, inner calm”? There is something really powerful about taking care of your space and your to-do list that will free up brain space for the rest of the week. Who wants to spend the week worrying if there’s milk in the fridge or clean bras in your drawer?
Designate a time to do these things and you will feel taken care of. The beauty of it? You’ve done it all for yourself. 

Categories
Fresh Fashion Lifestyle

#ottomademyshoes: Buying Shoes From The Root Collective Supports Guatemalan Artisans

Out of Office is a regular feature of brands we love—and we think you will too! Each of the brands we highlight must meet three criteria: 1) have a woman in charge; 2) create sustainably, responsibly, and thoughtfully; and 3) fit in with the lives we’re actually living. Read on to find out more about this week’s brand, the lady behind it all, and the advice she has for women everywhere.

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Of all the origin stories a shoe company could have, a trip to a Guatemalan slum seems an unlikely one. But after Bethany Tran visited a friend working for Lemonade International in Guatemala City, she was moved to make a difference, putting the wheels of The Root Collective in motion.

Bethany Tran, founder of The Root Collective
Bethany Tran, founder of The Root Collective

Lemonade International is a non-profit focused on La Limonada, an asentamiento, or slum, of Guatemala City. Like many slums around the world, La Limonada, which is the largest slum in Central America, experiences poverty and gang violence the likes of which most people in the U.S. can’t imagine.
Bethany, who had met some of La Limonada’s 60,000 to 100,000 residents, felt a connection to those people—and knew she had to try to help.
It was on one of these visits that Bethany met a shoemaker named Otto Aceituno. As is common in places of extreme poverty, gang violence is rife in La Limonada, and many residents are either in gangs or their lives are affected by them. By the time Bethany had met Otto, though, he was out of gang life and working as a cobbler at his own shop, Calzado Limonada. Otto, who learned the art of shoemaking when he was 10, employs former gang members, including his son, in his shop.
Otto Aceituno of The Root Collective
Otto Aceituno of The Root Collective

Bethany and Otto went into partnership together and formed The Root Collective to sell handmade shoes. Bethany creates the designs for the shoes, Guatemalan women weave the textiles by hand, and Otto and his team produce each pair—also by hand.
The Root Collective, which launched in November 2013, initially offered a variety of accessories and shoes, but in the years since has narrowed the focus to high-quality shoes hand made by Guatemalan artisans. Now, The Root Collective works with Otto’s shop plus two others—one is a bootmaker who makes all of their boots. The fabric for the shoes is still woven by hand in two weaving cooperatives run by Guatemalan women.
Bethany, who lives with her husband in North Carolina, worked full-time at a Fortune 500 company while developing The Root Collective. Now, in addition to her work with The Root Collective, she works at her own company, Broadview, consulting on brand strategy and marketing. She’s got her hands full, which makes her work with her Central American business partners all the more inspiring. (If she can do it, why can’t we?)
When you buy shoes from The Root Collective, your money is going to help La Limonada residents like Otto and his team. And while there’s no easy answer to the poverty endemic in asentamientos like La Limonada, purchasing thoughtfully is a really great start.

HealthyWay’s Picks From The Root Collective

Each month, The Root Collective highlights a Pair of the Month they’re particularly feeling. In August, that pair is the Gaby in Scarlet—and it’s 25 percent off the entire month! The Gaby is their current flats focus; we especially love it in Mustard and Embroidered Floral.

The Gaby in Scarlet
The Gaby in Scarlet

Boots more your thing? The Lee boot in Noir is made of handwoven cotton and genuine leather, and reviews are effusive to say the least. Their best-selling boot, the Espe, is particularly fresh in Midnight, a luxe brown color made of soft but durable leather.
When you buy a pair of shoes from The Root Collective, join the community of Otto fans the world over by posting a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #ottomademyshoes.
[products ids=’1075805,1075798,1075806′ type=full]
[products ids=’1075809,1075807,1075808′ type=full]

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

Q+A With Bethany Tran

What’s your why behind the brand? What inspired you to start your company?

The Root Collective started with a problem. It was a problem that wasn’t being solved, and I couldn’t understand why. A friend of mine moved to Guatemala to be the on-the-ground person for a non-profit she had helped start. They were focused on bringing education and support to a single slum community called La Limonada in Guatemala City. It was amazing work. I went to visit shortly after she moved in 2009.
But I realized quickly that only half the problem was being addressed. You could educate a kid, but if there was no job for them after they graduated, nothing will have changed. That cycle of poverty would continue without jobs to allow people to lift themselves up.

HealthyWay
La Limonada, Guatemala City, Guatemala

These kids came from struggling families. If there’s one thing I’m certain of, it’s that strong families build strong communities. And strong communities build a strong world. That’s the kind of world that I wanted to live in.
These families needed jobs. I kept waiting for someone to do something about it, but no one did.
I knew nothing about starting a business like this. I had a background in marketing, not international development, or product development, or even business administration. I needed to know about seven million things to do this well, and I knew about five of them. I decided to do it anyway.
In 2013, The Root Collective launched. In that time, thousands of women have become part of creating a stronger world with their purchases. Every single pair of shoes fuels those jobs, and every single woman who wears them is changing the world for the better because of it.
HealthyWay
My “why” has morphed through my time from conception until now. It started completely focused on job creation and has now grown to include empowering women to understand how much power they have to create change in the world simply by how they spend their money.
Women control 85 percent of household budgets, which means they control a large portion of the global economy. That’s crazy, right?! What’s so incredible about it is that women are so uniquely positioned to lead the charge to make our world better.
Money talks, and how that money is spent, what companies it’s spent with, and what women are demanding as consumers—that’s huge.

Walk us through your typical workday.

Oh goodness, it doesn’t exist! My days can vary from working on future designs, problem solving production issues in Guatemala, doing Facebook Live chats with other women boss babes, packing orders (yes, CEOs get to do the everyday standard work sometimes too!), updating our website, or doing interviews like this.
Every single day is different, which is part of what I love about my job. I thrive off change.

What’s up next for your company?

We are currently working on expanding our product offering. We are in the design and sampling phase for Summer 2019 right now, and I’m super excited for what we’re hoping to be able to do.
HealthyWay

If you had to pick just one of your products as your favorite, which would it be and why?

This is a trick question, right? If I had to pick JUST one to wear for the rest of my life, it would be the Espe in Slate bootie. This was one of our original boots and is still one of our best sellers. I love the color combination of the luscious chestnut colored leather with the tan and gray handwoven fabric.
Plus, they’re so comfortable. They are one of my on-my-feet-all-day, walking-around-the-city shoes.

Five-Minute Mentor

What’s your best advice for our readers?

Be brave. Be curious. Be persistent. The best things in life are hard, but so worth it.

What was your lightbulb moment, where all the hard work felt totally worth it?

When I started seeing other women be inspired by what I was doing. I don’t say that to sound conceited (I realize it does!), but I get so excited seeing women be brave and do the things that get them excited, when they realize that they are capable.
I say all the time that if I can do this, so can you. I didn’t have any kind of leg up starting this business. I had zero clue what I was doing, had no connections, no background in fashion or product development. So truly, if I can do this, you are more than capable of doing what it is that makes your heart flutter.
HealthyWay

What’s your favorite way to practice self-care?

Reading by some kind of body of water! The beach, the pool, a lake…water relaxes me so much, and I love getting lost in a story.
A good massage doesn’t hurt either.

Balance or harmony?

I’ve never heard it put that way, but harmony 100 percent. Balance does feel like a myth most days.

How do you define wellness?

The perfect combination of emotional, physical, and spiritual health. I think if you can manage some semblance of those things, you’ll find joy, even when life is hard.
It’s easy to focus on physical well-being, but I’m learning more and more how emotional and spiritual health are key to a fulfilled life.

What book do you think all women need to read?

When Breath Becomes Air. It’s a memoir written by a brilliant neurosurgeon while he was dying from a brain tumor. I realize it sounds super depressing, but it’s a book about really living. In my top three favorite books of all time (even if I did read it on a beach trip and bawled my eyes out sitting in the sand).
HealthyWay

Pick your fuel of choice: coffee, tea, or something else?

Okay, this is weird, but coffee, even though I only drink like quarter caff. I backed off caffeine a few years ago, but I still love the habit of drinking my coffee in the morning.

What’s your ideal day off of work?

Beach trip with my husband and a book

What was your first job?

I was a dance teacher for 10 years. I started teaching the summer I turned 16. Kind of crazy for a first job, but I loved it so much and still miss it.

What has been your biggest obstacle in building your company?

Just one? Goodness. Our biggest obstacle is still manufacturing. We are working with small batch makers, most of whom had generational training. Which means they were taught by their parents and grandparents. I love that so much, but it’s posed significant challenges. Since there was no formal training, they tend to do things how they do things, and that’s not always the best way.
I had zero background in making shoes (and shoes are by far the most complicated thing you wear). I’ve had to learn as I go so I could help solve problems as they came up in our manufacturing. It’s still a struggle, but we’re all learning every day how to improve.

How do you stay motivated?

Frankly, I want my life to matter. On the days when it feels impossible, I remember that. I want to leave the world a better place than how I found it. Not to get all YOLO, but it’s true. I want to go to my grave knowing that I loved my family well, that I served other people, and that I was able to inspire others to do the same. Is there anything else to life?
HealthyWay

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Buy a pair of boots to support Guatemalan artisans at The Root Collective, follow them on Instagram, and don’t forget to hashtag #ottomademyshoes.