13 Essentials to DIY a Creative Workspace

Creating a highly functional creative workspace can be a challenge. You want to see all of your materials, colors and bits of inspiration but you don’t want your space to turn into a crazy, albeit colorful, mess. There are two keys to combatting the “did a scrapbook explode in here?” look while still keeping everything you need at the ready: the right desktop organization tools and the right bins, baskets and boxes to store all your goodies.

We teamed up with Target to build out an entire creative workspace from scratch. It goes along with our upcoming New Year’s resolution to make something new every day in 2015. Because you know what? A super organized creative space is a more productive one!

1. Hamilton X Slat Office Desk ($130): First up, set the scene with the perfect desk. We chose one that is stylish, but also has plenty of space underneath for stowing away drawers and the like.

2. Task Lamp ($13): Next up, a bit of illumination. We found this awesome lamp that includes an outlet so you can plug in and charge anything you like. Not only is this great for keeping your smartphone charged, but it’s a great place to keep that spare camera battery powered up at all times.

Bulletin Board

Folder Organizer ($5): We still keep things old school in the inspiration department. Prop up a bulletin board on a side table to IRL pin gorgeous things you come across and to remind yourself to “Call Mom!” You can also use a folder organizer to store magazines, colorful card stock and more.

4. Desktop Drawers: Target’s got a ton of different drawers to choose from, that go in shelves, under your desk and even on top of it. Though you want to keep things on your desk, you don’t want it to get cluttered. We filled our desktop drawers with stamps, ink pads and stationery.

5. Clear Acrylic Counter Tray ($9): You know what we always say? Never underestimate the power of a paint pen. Keep pens, pencils, scissors and glitter (obvs!) at the ready by turning a beauty organizer into a desktop one.

Stackable Bin Topper

Drawer Organizers: In our desk drawer, we keep tools we use all the time. Needle nose pliers, hole punches, washi tape and even Sculpey are part of our daily toolkit. To avoid junk drawer-esque pitfalls, get lots of little bins to keep everything in its right place.

7. Under-the-Desk Drawers: Under our desk we’ve got another stack of drawers, and we’re loving the scalloped pattern on them.

8. Sterilite Stack and Carry Storage Tote ($8): As much as we love our desks, sometimes you’ve gotta take your DIY tools and materials on the go. We like to keep a few portable caddies around so that we can fill ’em up with whatever we’re using that day.

9. Sturdy Fabric Buckets: Storing rolls of paper can be kind of the worst. They can get easily crushed or stick out from your shelves. Instead, use a bucket to keep all those paper rolls in order. Bonus points if your fabric bucket is as pretty as the papers it contains.

10. ClosetMaid Fabric Storage Cubes ($10): Though we love to keep fabric folded and stacked, it’s important to have a catch all for those bits and pieces that don’t stack up quite so nicely.

More Plastic Drawers

In our shelves, we’ve got even more plastic drawers! In this ones we’ve got wooden beads and tags. And yes, we laser cut Brit + Co into one of them! We also love this navy blue stack of Sterilite Drawers ($6).

Lidded Boxes

6 Sterilite Storage Totes ($17).

13. Baskets: Finally, you can never have too many baskets! They’re great for storing things like yarn, fabric, stuffing for pillows and so on.

Spring will be here before you know it – that means it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with the cutest dresses! Luckily, Target has you covered with every kind of dress style under the sun. Of course, their selection is nothing but affordable, so you can get your spring wardrobe lineup going without breaking the bank!

Get ready for warmer weather with these 10 Target spring dresses!

Target

Future Collective Denim Mini Shirtdress

Denim is always gonna be in style. This mini also lets your look breathe when it's warm out!

Target

Universal Thread Eyelet Maxi Sundress

Easy and breezy, you can never go wrong with a long, white sundress for springtime.

Target

A New Day Ruffle Slip Dress

Date night is calling with this adorable ruffled moment! Wear your favorite flats or heels, and you're good to go.

Target

A New Day Short Sleeve Midi Dress

The puff sleeves on this coral piece are so dreamy.

Target

A New Day Chiffon Ruffle Maxi Dress

Chiffon is just the right weight – light and flowy – to keep your spring get-up lookin' right. This dress is also fashioned with some mini ruffles for added cuteness.

Target

Wild Fable Strapless Bubble Dress

Bubble hems are going to be everywhere this season, so jump on the trend with this plaid moment that you can pair with tall boots and sandals alike!

Target

A New Day Tube Knit Maxi Dress

This drop waist moment looks just like something I'd find at Free People, but it's only $32 (was $40)!

Target

A New Day Balloon Sleeve Mini A-Line Dress

This dress boasts a micro cheetah print that gives you an instant confidence boost. I adore the styling with some tall black boots!

Target

Wild Fable Bubble Sleeve Mini Dress

Fit for the office or happy hour, this sleek black mini can be styled in endless ways.

Target

Wild Fable Cap Sleeve Satin Maxi Bodycon Dress

Florals were meant for springtime after all!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

There’s a newcomer in Trader Joe’s skincare section, and it’s already sending fans into a frenzy! Said to be a solid dupe of the ever-popular Sol de Janeiro Delícia Drench Body Butter, this limited-time TJ’s product goes for just $7, but shoppers say it’s still as rich, hydrating, and fragrant.

Read on for more info on this latest Trader Joe’s beauty drop!

Trader Joe's

The new find is none other than the Ultra Rich Body Butter, a “mega-moisturizer” that Trader Joe’s says is designed to “deeply hydrate and restore your skin’s natural glow.”

Reddit

Its formula is packed with plenty of shea butter, along with nourishing coconut oil, passion fruit seed oil, hyaluronic acid, and Copaiba resin to really help target dry skin. The formula is touted to be extra creamy and thick, all while boating a warm vanilla orchid scent.

Sephora

Trader Joe’s shoppers were super quick to compare the all-new Ultra Rich Body Butter to one of Sol de Janeiro’s body care products, the Delícia Drench Body Butter.

When one TJ’s fan asked about the product’s scent on Reddit, one user noted that “it smells like a clean floral vanilla but not heavy on any of those in particular if that makes sense. It actually reminds me a lot of Sol De Janeiro 59 scent if you've ever smelled that.”

Another Redditoralso dared to compare the two products: “I bought 2 today! It really does smell like Sol de Janeiro Delicia body butter but way thicker.”

Reddit

Aside from the scent of the Ultra Rich Body Butter, Trader Joe’s shoppers who’ve tried the product are loving the texture of it. A few fans on Reddit sounded off about the thick formula:

“Shockingly, it ABSORBS really well!” one person said.

“Once on, it soaks in, hydrates well and has a pleasant, light scent that lasts too,” another user commented.

Sephora

While one 8.1-ounce tub of Sol de Janeiro’s Delícia Drench Body Butter goes for $48, the new Trader Joe’s body butter costs just $7 for 8 ounces.

Wowza! We can’t wait to get our hands on this new find.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Nothing makes or breaks an outfit like a good pair of shoes, and when it comes to springtime dressing, footwear is all about fun flats, modest Mary Janes, easy sandals, and lightweight sneaks. Target’s definitely giving me the itch to snag several new pairs ahead of the warmer season with a fun mix of raffia, mesh, and gingham mixed into their latest spring shoe collection.

Shop 13 pairs of the cutest Target spring shoes below, all of which will undoubtedly inspire your springtime wardrobe.

Target

Universal Thread Sylvia Woven Mary Jane Ballet Flats

These meshy flats will let your feet breathe come warmer weather. They'd look so cute with some vintage jeans!

Target

A New Day Vienna Raffia Woven Mule Flats

With a mix of raffia material and a pointed silhouette, these have gotta be the comfiest (yet the most stylish) Target flats you can wear this spring.

Target

Wild Fable Kaltain Suede Fashion Sneakers

These sleek suede sneaks look just like some pricey designer styles that are popping off right now, except they're just $35 a pair – wow!

Target

Wild Fable Maysen Footbed Sandals

If you want the comfort of flip flops without the typical cheap-y look of 'em, these $15 slip-ons will be your BFF come spring and summer. They'll match with just about anything, whether you're dressed up or down!

Target

Wild Fable Elsa Eyelet Mary Jane Ballet Flats

I could see these eyelet-dotted Mary Jane flats being so perfect for Easter season.

Target

Wild Fable Elide Raffia Fisherman Platform Heels

You can stomp and romp around all you want in these adorable platform heels. The raffia straps make 'em feel extremely spring-like – I'd rock them with a floral mini dress for an easy outfit!

Target

Wild Fable Lysandra Gingham Eyelet Kitten Heels

OMG. These kitten heels are perhaps my favorite of all the Target spring shoes that just dropped! They look super similar to styles that some of my go-to brands sell, but you can snag this pair for $40 and not break the bank.

Target

A New Day Vada Slingback Scrunch Toe Flats

Somewhere between a ballet flat and a slingback shoe, this low-profile pair makes a stylish transition piece to take you from winter to spring.

Target

A New Day Milan Slingback Heels

These make me want to embark on a bougie springtime picnic ASAP.

Target

Wild Fable Sumter Platform Sneakers

Ooh, these could definitely be a dupe of fashion's favorite sneaker right now. They go for just $40 and make the ultimate comfy walking shoe for any season!

Target

A New Day Tilly Platform Footbed Sandals

All of the details on these shoes – from the locking closure to the twisted trim along the straps – truly complete these comfy sandals and set them apart from your expected styles.

Target

Wild Fable Natalie Mary Jane Ballet Flats

These faux-leather ballet flats come in an adorable light pink colorway, giving your footwear game a fun feminine flair ahead of spring.

Target

A New Day Haley Ankle Strap Single Band Flare Heels

I'm a big believer that everyone needs a reliable pair of black heels in their wardrobe. These are the ideal pair because they boast a comfy square toe, sturdy block heel, and a soft memory foam insole!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Admit it: you rolled your eyes when your friend talked about scoring tickets to see Beyoncé'sRenaissance tour or Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour. You've probably even looked at her sideways when she's shared she pays 50% of her household bills because you don't think modern women should do that.

Whatever your reasoning is, you're aware that you have a habit of judging how your friend spends money and feel like you should stop. But friends shouldn't lie to each other, right? Eh, we've yet to see lying in relationships produce healthy results, but overstepping boundaries is just as worse. This is especially true if your friend doesn't always ask for your financial opinions.

Want to know why you keep doing it even though you're making your friend uncomfortable? Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Navjot "Navi" Hughesof Empower Mental Health has a few hints so pull up a chair to see what gives!

4 reasons you're lowkey obsessed with how your friends spend money

Jayda Anderson

1. You're using money as a way to compare yourself to your friend.

Seeing it worded like this sounds harsh and is sure to illicit the following responses:

  1. "Are you kidding me? I'd never do that!"
  2. "There's no comparison between my friend and I. I love them too much to do that."
  3. "It's not like I'm hurting my friend when I try to give them advice."

Even if you're not proud of it, there's a reason why comparison feels a embedded. Hughes says you're zeroing in on your friend's finances because of your "mindset." She further explains, "...we compare because money either separates you or brings you together. It's a social comparison because it's one of the most powerful tools to create the life you desire." This checks out if you and your friend are always talking about the kind of futures you want.

Here's the clincher: Hughes says, "Some are motivated by others, and some become jealous and hopeless."

Tima Miroshnichenko

2. The childhood lessons you learned about money are on full display.

Did you grow up hearing "money doesn't grow on trees" or "Anyone who doesn't save their money is being wasteful?" You may not think about it, but plays a role in how you look at other people's habits. Hughes says, "...judgment comes from our social upbringing. Some people have a scarcity mindset, so they hoard all their money." This could explain why you're less likely to spend money on things you consider frivolous while thinking your friend who does has lost a grip on reality.

The other side of this is being in a position where you didn't have to worry about money growing up. "If you are from a wealthier family, you know that money is a tool that flows." But, you're not off the hook from having negative opinions about others. You could still "judge others for not being smart and investing their money," according to Hughes.

Shaunna Levy

3. You may be jealous of your friend or annoyed with their complaints.

You can adore your friend while envying them for having the luxury to do whatever they want with their money. It's not to say they're truly in the position be carefree, but their ability to believe they'll be okay no matter what may make you see green. Then again, you may resent your friend for complaining about financial hardships they're in because of bad choices.

Like Hughes has mentioned earlier, there's so many reasons why everyone judges each other. She reiterates, "Usually, it's a place of jealousy," and it can show up differently based on your friend's circumstances.

"If your friends travel and you can't afford it, it creates discontent," she uses as an example, but "if your friends complain about not having money and bad spending habits, you may be annoyed and frustrated because their habits don't align with their perceived values," she adds.

Kaboompics.com

4. You're unable to handle the same criticism you're dishing out.

It's easy to judge others for doing something we think isn't right, but it's harder to accept the same vein of criticism. Hughes says people who consistently critique their friends' spending habits wouldn't have a hard time paying attention to their own choices if they were genuinely seeking "expert guidance on how to manage money instead of avoiding it."

For example, you could feel envious of the friend who has a good relationship with money while you're always spending it as soon as you get paid. "Some people cannot hold on to cash because they don't feel they deserve it. It's the subconscious programming that prevents them from making changes," says Hughes.

Emma Ripperdan

Here's what to do if you're truly concerned about your friend's finances

Approach the topic delicately

Sometimes we love to pose aggressive interventions with our friends because we "know" them. While this may work in some cases, it could backfire if you're adding to the guilt they're already feeling.

"If they ask for feedback or they complain in a moment, you can get curious and ask questions that allow them to realize their mistakes," suggests Hughes. Don't go thinking this is your shining moment to make your friend change, however.

"Ultimately, it's up to that person to receive feedback. If they don't want the input, it's best not to express your opinion as it doesn't impact you..." Hughes remarks.

Pavel Danilyuk

Here's how to set a firm boundary with a friend who can't keep their opinions to themselves

If you've found yourself on the receiving of constant opinions about how you spend money, we know you're annoyed. We're irritated for you because invasive questions or thoughts about money can ruin a longstanding friendship!

You can say something like, "While I appreciate your concerns, I will figure this out". You must take control of the conversation and be assertive if others are crossing a boundary. This usually reflects a lack of boundaries in relationships beyond finances- so chances are your relationship already lacks boundaries.

Need more money tips? You'll love browsing our articles about budgeting, saving money, and more!

Keeping our minds sharp becomes just as important as maintaining our physical health when we get older.

But while memory, concentration, and mental clarity can decline with age, the good news is that the brain remains extremely adaptable and can still benefit from consistent mental exercises.

So, just like how you hit the gym and work out your muscles to stay fit, you can participate in activities that strengthen your cognitive abilities, too. Whether you want to improve your memory or simply stay mentally agile, here are eight mental exercises that will help keep you sharp.

These are the 8 best mental exercises to keep your mind sharp!

1. Play Card Games

cottonbro studio

A study conducted in 2015 showed that regularly playing cards can actually increase brain volume in various regions, which is linked to improved cognitive functions like memory and critical thinking.

Not to mention, card games are a great way to boost focus, hone your decision-making skills, and connect with other players. Some popular favorites you can try out include poker, crazy eights, hearts, bridge, and gin rummy.

2. Strengthen Your Trivia Knowledge

Marcus Aurelius

Are you more of a "Jeopardy!" or "Family Feud" person? Regardless, trivia is an excellent way to exercise your brain and learn more across a wide variety of topics. The best part is that you can play solo or in a group.

Download a trivia app on your phone, hit up a trivia night at local bars or cafes, or play some trivia board games with friends or family. Participating in trivia regularly may improve both short-term and long-term memory retention.

3. Build Jigsaw Puzzles

Kaboompics.com

From simple 100-piece images to more complex 1,000-piece works of art, puzzles are more than just a way to relax. They're also a great mental workout.

Building jigsaw puzzles has been shown to activate multiple cognitive functions, such as spatial reasoning, visual processing, and problem-solving, all of which are critical for preserving brain health as we mature.

4. Venture Off The Beaten Path

cottonbro studio

When we stick to the same routines day in and day out, our brains can get pretty complacent. Try shaking things up and stepping outside of your comfort zone by challenging your mind.

For instance, taking a different route to work is a small habit switch that can have a surprising impact on cognitive function. You'll be forcing your brain to adapt to new environments or processes and stimulating areas responsible for memory, problem-solving, and spatial awareness.

5. Play An Instrument

Charles Parker

If you've ever wanted to learn how to play an instrument, there's never been a more perfect time. Again, since the brain is adaptable and continues forming new connections throughout your life, you can develop new skills at any age.

Plus, picking up an instrument requires concentration, coordination, and memory, making it a stellar brain exercise.

6. Learn A Foreign Language

Ivan Samkov

You can reap significant cognitive benefits from learning a foreign language as well. Research suggests that being bilingual can actually enhance creativity, memory, and visual-spatial skills. It even makes it easier to switch between tasks and may help delay mental decline.

The best part? It's never too late to get started. There are plenty of language-learning apps available right on your smart device. Otherwise, visit a local class to connect with others who are also picking up a new language.

7. Teach Someone Else A Skill

Mikhail Nilov

It's one thing to learn a new skill; it's another to teach it to someone else. Not only will it reinforce your own knowledge, but it'll deepen your understanding further.

When you explain a concept or technique to another person, you have to break it down, identify key steps, and correct mistakes along the way. This helps solidify your grasp on the topic at hand while bolstering your memory.

8. Meditate

Marcus Aurelius

Finally, daily meditation does more than merely calm your mind or reduce stress. Regular practice may also improve memory and increase your brain's capacity to process information more efficiently.

All you have to do is take a few moments each day to focus on your breathing and clear your mind.

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