20 Successful Women Share Their Best Self-Care Advice

Gesche Haas
Jul 01, 2021
successful women

Though the world is slowly rebuilding and creating its new normal, life as we once knew it has not returned—and it likely never will. Coming to terms with saying goodbye to the lives we had prior to 2020, while simultaneously navigating the uncertainty that lies ahead can be uncomfortable, to say the least. Yet, after a year of operating at a slower pace and taking some time for deep reflection, we're feeling ready to embrace what's next.

We tapped into the experiences of 20 high-achieving women from the Dreamers & Doers collective to learn about the ways they've been taking care of their mental health while living through a pandemic, raising children, building their career, running businesses, and everything in between.

Their responses provide a variety of tangible self-care methods anyone can implement immediately to ensure their mental health is being prioritized despite the uncertainty that continues. While there is truly something for everyone here, a common thread runs through their responses: mental health must be prioritized in the toughest seasons. In fact, that is arguably the time it matters most.

Meha Agrawal

Meha Agrawal, founder and CEO of Silk + Sonder, a subscription-based mental wellness experience for the modern woman that makes daily self care easy and fun.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: When I need to unwind, refocus, and decompress, I love to light a candle, set up an aroma diffuser, and use my essential oils to get into a spiritual mindset while I journal. Creating a special and safe space with a good vibe makes my journaling routine feel more energizing and instantly makes me feel centered.

My Advice: Step back, think about your core values and what is important to you, then gut check whether you are living true to those things. If you're not, make a plan of how you can prioritize and get into a more positive headspace. In my experience, bringing pen to paper has been my savior.

Annelise Hillmann

Annelise Hillmann, co-founder and CEO of FRONTMAN, a Gen Z self-care brand offering immediate cosmetic solutions for guys.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: The pandemic has made it extremely difficult to mentally switch between work and leisure. My solution has been to protect my time off and encourage my own creative outlets so that my brain can engage with other ideas and return to my normal work recharged.

My Advice: The No. 1 threat to most projects' success is creator burnout. Forcing yourself to take time away from work will not only improve your daily mood but also improve your work and energy in the long run.

Lexie Smith

Lexie Smith, founder of THEPRBAR inc., an online coaching brand that specializes in helping motivated entrepreneurs exponentially expand their impact, influence, and revenue through PR.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I have been very intentional with setting working hour boundaries, both with myself and with my clients. This includes stepping away from work by 6 p.m. at the latest and making sure to take off weekends.

My Advice: Make realistic goals. If you've never set boundaries around working hours before, for example, start by practicing one day a week. When you feel comfortable, up it two, and so on and so forth. If you aren't feeling like you can accomplish such alone, turn to communities filled with like-minded individuals.

Lorrie King

Lorrie King, co-founder and CEO of Caire Beauty, a skincare brand designed specifically for the 40+ woman, experiencing dramatically changing skin due to hormone decline and menopause.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: During late fall in 2019, I embarked on a journey to explore and heal myself by attending a 10-day silent meditation. This involved no talking, no reading, no writing, no electronics, no eye contact or physical contact, no eating before 6:30 a.m. or after 11:30 a.m. Yet there was so much abundance and gratitude that translated into so much to say yes to.

My Advice: Every morning open your eyes, but don't move yet. Smile and express gratitude for your life and being alive, then share appreciation for those you love. Give yourself a hug and then choose to approach your day with happiness as you rise out of bed to enter your day. This one-minute exercise will help you throughout the day because whenever it gets tough or you feel anxious, you can recall that morning smile.

Jonna Piira

Jonna Piira,CFO and Consultant of JP Advisors LLC., working as a fractional CFO, helping leaders easily digest financial data.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I know that I will be more productive if I start my day with meditation and stretching while looking at my vision board and sipping hot lemon water. I also have found that when I am overwhelmed, taking a mid-day break to walk outside for 15 minutes can really reset my energy in a positive way.

My Advice: If you are sensing that you are off balance and mentally down, take baby steps to shift that energy and have an accountability partner. An easy first step for me is starting my day by writing three things I am grateful for that happened within the last 24 hours.

Randle Browning

Randle Browning, Head of Content and Marketing at Skillcrush, a tech education platform.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I slowed down to give myself space and time to process all that was happening. That meant frequent virtual therapy sessions, permission to be unproductive, a new meditation practice, and lots of hours outdoors.

My Advice: Just like your body needs rest and care, so does your mental health. You deserve to do what you need to for your mental health, and doing so helps others in your life too.

​Stephanie Danielle Alexander

Stephanie Danielle Alexander, founder and CEO of En Soleil LLC, a first-of-its-kind urban retreat, created with the social professional in mind.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I partnered with several Black- and women-owned brands to create an "Indulge" spa day in a box, and I got great feedback from those who ordered it. Taking the time to take a bath and unplug, as well as being able to share the experience with others was a form of mental self-care for me.

My Advice: Only expend energy on the things that matter, and learn to say "no" to things that don't. I no longer stress about "fire drills" at work, and, to date, no damage has been done. What needs to be done, gets done, and I keep my sanity.

​Shivika Sinha

Shivika Sinha, founder and CEO of Veneka, a capsule wardrobe styling service featuring sustainable, ethical, and cruelty-free brands.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I began by committing to doing one thing each day that gave me energy. These activities included reading, napping, and exercising. As the weeks rolled on, I felt my mental and emotional reserves refilling.

My Advice: Do one thing every day that gives you mental and emotional energy. It doesn't have to take up a lot of time or resources. Start small. Those small things will add up over time.

​Rachel Dorton

Rachel Dorton, founder of Highview Collective, a growth marketing consultancy that helps parenting, baby, and children's brands reach their customers through storytelling and brand marketing.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: Those precious hours between when my boys went to bed and when my husband and I did were the only thing that kept me sane in the pandemic. But I quickly realized that I was spending that time mindlessly scrolling on social media. I decided to tap into my creative side and do something with my hands. I put my phone down and took up needlepoint. I have found joy in creating something tangible and beautiful.

My Advice: It's so easy to stay stagnant. I've learned it's important to step back to give yourself perspective. Did I really need to scroll on Instagram for 30 minutes before bed instead of getting that extra sleep? How is it serving me and how could I have better used that time? I think that perspective helps in all areas of life—from home life to business and parenting.

Nilima Achwal

Nilima Achwal, founder of The Female Founders Lab, a virtual support and capital ecosystem for venture ideas and a high-touch accelerator for early-stage founders raising their first round of funding.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: Instead of imposing the old work culture on my entrepreneurial life as I was doing before, I realized that I can flow with what needs to be done throughout the day in short spurts of a few hours and then immediately turn off again and go outside to "play."

My Advice: Take a few days of being completely "off"—no phone, no computer. Get used to what that feels like. Then, make that your status quo. Your computer should only be open if you know exactly what you're trying to do in a defined time frame.

Raquel Rojo Calderon

Raquel Rojo Calderon, founder and CEO of Innata Style, a business that helps rising women act confidently in life and work by elevating their personal image.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I've been paying close attention to the small things that give me energy and make me happy. I believe that true self-care begins with discovering your needs and desires, which are often different from those of other people. It's not about the activity, per se, but about the effect that it has on you.

My Advice: I would stay away from prescriptive advice as to what to do based on other people's experiences, and pay more attention to advice about how to connect with your intuitive voice. Because that inner voice knows what you need. It's trying to tell you if you pay attention.

​Tara Ghei

Tara Ghei, founder and CEO of Romp + Tumble, a business that curates and rents bundles of baby and toddler clothes.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I have to intentionally take stock of my physical and emotional cues and give myself permission to respond in the moment. So some days I may need to take a nap at 3 p.m. Other days, I may wake up early and read a fun fiction book in bed. And other times I may need to shut off my phone for an hour before bedtime and write.

My Advice: I love the approach of time-blocking a calendar, if you can. It forces you to think about what recharges you and make the time for it. However, we have periods where this is tough, especially as a working parent during a pandemic. In those times, have a mental list of things that recharge you and give yourself permission to respond to your needs in the moment, if you can.

Kristine Miguel

Kristine Miguel, founder of Caritas Company, a financial consulting company that helps small business owners transform their financial process.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I put my phone on "bedtime mode" from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. which means no work and social-media related notifications for at least 12 hours. With this approach, I'm able to get to bed earlier and wake up before my toddler, which really helps with my mood and lowers my anxiety.

My Advice: Baby steps toward progress, not perfection. Take it one week at a time. If your new goals don't feel right after one week, you can change them. Do what works best for you—not what everyone else is doing.

Danielle Letayf

Danielle Letayf, founder and CEO of Badassery, a community-driven marketplace for event organizers to book diverse public speakers.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I've found solace in taking several 15-20 minute breaks to walk outside, have a tea without looking at my phone or reading the news, or doing a quick workout. Keeps me energized, balanced, and ready to go for the day!

My Advice: Priorities are a choice, so make it happen. You need to be actively making the choice to take care of your mental health, and I'd recommend telling those around you that you're doing so for some accountability.

​Katherine North

Katherine North, founder of Declare Dominion, life coaching for women too smart for the self-help aisle.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I have found I simply have to get away in order to think clearly. Recently, I let myself work deeply the first day, but then I forced myself to actually rest—to sleep, do yoga, read novels, meditate, just sit, and dream. It was incredible what that open space did for my mind and heart. New ideas flooded in, new enthusiasm rose up, I actually missed my beloved family, and I felt like I could feel my own life force flood through me again. It was the best thing I'd done for myself all year.

My Advice: Ironically, the times when you most desperately need a break are also the times when you're also too tired and desperate to allow yourself to take one. So go ahead and schedule them in advance. Having it on the calendar is helpful both because it takes decision-making out of the equation, and because it gives you something to look forward to.

​Jessica Sikora

Jessica Sikora, founder and Executive Director of SUPERBANDS, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to raising awareness for the youth mental health crisis through a shared love of music.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I started to set strict limits on my screen time and block time in my calendar to do things that bring me joy, like walking my dogs at the park or going for a drive to grab coffee.

My Advice: Seek out pockets every morning that bring you happiness, even if it is just five or 10 minutes. Soak in the joy from those moments and express gratitude. Block out time on your calendar so you are forced to take a step back and briefly recharge.

​Sara Weinreb

Sara Weinreb, founder of IMBY, a virtual community center for people who give a shit about co-creating a more just and equitable future.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I've committed to doing less, connecting to loved ones more, focusing on community care, and taking breaks from my phone and computer—both intentionally, and when it all feels like too much and I find myself feeling overwhelmed. Some days it's easier than others, but I realize my wellbeing is paramount to my ability to continue to fight for change.

My Advice: Start very, very small. We don't all have the privilege to take time off, or indulge in expensive or fancy self care. Rather, try to recognize when you are feeling anxious, or depressed, and take a few deep breaths. Do one really simple and kind thing for yourself, whether it's calling a friend, going for a walk, or making your favorite drink.

​Adero Miwo

Adero Miwo, founder and CEO of FairFare, a one-stop shop for rideshares.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I have taken myself on solo trips to Sedona, local beaches, and simple walks in my neighborhood with my phone on Do Not Disturb. I also love to dance, so solo dance parties are always a good way for me to reset and refocus.

My Advice: The world will not end if you hit the deadline tomorrow or even next week. Your work is stronger when you are operating from a healthy mental space.

​Erin Tarr

Erin Tarr, founder of Be the Benchmark LLC, which runs group coaching programs for teen and tween girls.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: My business revolves around giving young girls the tools to overcome any obstacle they encounter. I leaned heavily on the tools I teach them to stay mentally and emotionally healthy. The FIERCEST Framework that I teach includes daily gratitude practice, consistent affirmations, regular exercise, reading and evaluating inspirational quotes, creating something, encouraging others—all ideally within the first 30 minutes of waking up each day.

My Advice: You are an average of the five people you spend the most time around. Finding people and groups who we can encourage and be encouraged by and who reflect the type of people we aspire to be can remind us when to slow down and give ourselves grace.

​Rachel Abramowitz

Rachel Abramowitz, founder of Keepler, a new dating app that embeds personal growth into the process of dating.

How I've Been Taking Care of My Mental Health: I block off time in my calendar to read and write poetry! I started my first career in academia as a poet, and it's still a vital part of my identity. I respect these "poetry meetings" just as highly as my business meetings—it's like setting appointments with the muse.

My Advice: Switching off your "business self" to make time for creative endeavors may feel unproductive, but in the long run you will actually become a better problem-solver, manager, and human being. Creative work—reading, writing, drawing, dancing—strengthens the parts of your brain that will light up when you focus on business problems that need creative solutions. When you show up for your creativity, it will show up for you.

All individuals featured in this article are members of Dreamers & Doers, a private collective that amplifies the entrepreneurial pursuits of extraordinary women through thought leadership opportunities, authentic connection, and access. Learn more about Dreamers & Doers and subscribe to their monthly The Digest for top entrepreneurial and career resources.

Want to take your business to the next level? Learn more about Brit + Co's Selfmade online business course.

Is 'Eldest Daughter Syndrome' Even Real? Here's What A Licensed Therapist Thinks

Navigating adulthood as an eldest daughter can be tough. While you’re not a child in your parents’ home anymore, the dynamics you grew up with can still follow. Think about it: how often do you find yourself trying to solve everyone else’s problems while continuously trying to shoulder your own alone? If this resonates with you at all, you may be dealing with Eldest Daughter Syndrome.

To understand what this actually looks like beyond the TikTok therapy speak of it all, I talked to a licensed therapist, Briana Paruolo, LCMHC. As the founder of On Par Therapy — a practice that specializes in “burnout, disordered eating, and self-worth” that seeks to “empower high achieving women” — she comes across a lot of clients dealing with eldest daughter syndrome. Here’s what Paruolo has to say!


TL;DR

  • Eldest daughter syndrome isn't in the DSM-5, but that doesn't make the experiences of eldest daughters any less real.
  • Eldest daughter syndrome can look like intense perfectionism, unrealistic high standards, an inability to delegate, and an innate need to prioritize the needs of others first.
  • Eldest daughters can heal by validating their experiences, understanding their self-worth, and setting clear boundaries with themselves and others — especially by just saying "no" sometimes.

What is eldest daughter syndrome?

cottonbro studio

While The New York Timesreports that eldest daughter syndrome "isn’t an actual mental health diagnosis" — AKA it's not an official disorder recognized in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) — the symptoms seem to have a very real effect on the people struggling with it. Paruolo explains, "Often times with my clients, we explore 'eldest daughter experiences' as a way to avoid pathologizing this now normalized response to family roles and expectations. The eldest daughter experiences behavioral patterns and emotional experiences that are unique to their birth order in comparison to other siblings."

What does this all mean in practice? Paruolo says that families tend to place a ton more expectations on firstborn children, from achievements to overall responsibilities. According to Paruolo, this can put pressure on these children to lead and set a good example for younger siblings. Over time, that pressure can grow and evolve, leading an eldest daughter to taking on more and more throughout her life — even outside of the family home she grew up in — and cause further complications in their relationships, workplace, and otherwise.

What are the symptoms of eldest daughter syndrome?

Pavel Danilyuk

Like I said before, you naturally carry a lot of these experiences from childhood into your adult interactions. And while having leadership proclivities and high standards for yourself isn't inherently a bad thing, all of these pressing expectations can morph into more frustrating symptoms later on in life.

Since this isn't an exact diagnosis or disorder (yet), a lot of these symptoms can come from the practical findings from therapists over time. With Paruolo's clients, she's noticed that eldest daughters "might experience symptoms of perfectionism and unrealistic self-induced demands in both workplaces and relationships." She explains that this can look like a lack of delegation or asking for help. Paroulo also notes that eldest daughters may innately "prioritize others' needs before they acknowledge their own" — and if they choose to pick their own needs first, they may end up feeling guilty in the long run.

Each of these symptoms can pop up in an eldest daughter's day-to-day, but they can also have some unfortunate long term effects if they go unaddressed. "Long term effects might look like consciously or unconsciously being placed in a caregiving role, which can lead to burnout in many relationships," Paruolo says. She explains that this "immense pressure" and the climbing responsibilities can eventually cause chronic stress — and potentially even lead to resentment toward family members.

Netflix

For a fictional — but still practical! — example, let's think about Daphne Bridgerton. In season 1, we immediately see the extreme weight Daphne bears to find a good, respectable marriage that will make her family proud and cement their societal standing even further. That's a ton of pressure for anyone of any age, let alone a 21-year-old woman. Meanwhile, her older brothers Anthony and Benedict are 29 and 27, respectively — and if you remember, they don't seem to nervous about their own standings on the marriage mart, let alone seem eager to marry yet at all.

But Daphne prevails! She marries The Duke of Hastings, conceives a child, and fulfills her family's dreams against all odds. If you thought that would be enough, and that Daphne officially check off her eldest daughter duty, you'd be wrong! In season 2, when Anthony finally decides to navigate his own marriage prospects, the family calls Daphne in for help to give advice and lead them through their struggles. So even though Daphne's started a family of her own (exactly what they wanted and asked of her!), her job is never done. She councils, aids, and doles out an endless supply of love and care.

What can parents do to prevent eldest daughter syndrome?

Any Lane

Parents have a lot to prioritize as they raise their families, but there are some small (but very powerful!) things they can do to help prevent eldest daughter syndrome from getting out of hand. First and foremost, Paruolo wants parents to know how important it is to be mindful of how they speak to their children, regardless of their birth order. She stresses that a parents' voice "often becomes the child's internal voice (and often the harshest critic)."

Next, Paruolo suggests creating a more open environment for the family to talk about their feelings about the family dynamic. By doing so, it seems like this could mitigate that resentment we've talked about before, where an eldest daughter may take on more and more without asking for help and eventually burning out. Paruolo notes you can have these conversations at family dinners or meetings — this offers a set time and place for each person to air their feelings.

Finally, Paruolo wants parents that they should be "mindful of the caregiving responsibilities they place on the eldest" while also "encouraging age-appropriate forms of independence for the children in the house." All these efforts can help "breed healthier dynamics," and hopefully make an eldest daughter's life a little easier, one step at a time.

How can women heal from their eldest daughter syndrome?

jasmin chew

After reading all this, it may seem overwhelming to recognize that you're dealing with eldest daughter syndrome. Luckily, your symptoms and struggles don't have to define you because Paruolo has some key advice for healing. "Women can deal with and heal from their oldest daughter syndrome by acknowledging their real and valid experiences," she says. "We don't tell someone with a broken leg to get over it, so the same nurturing and understanding of how the eldest daughter syndrome has shaped them is essential for their journey."

There are a few ways you can truly validate these eldest daughter experiences — and work to move on from them. Paruolo suggests practicing mindfulness in order to notice what your innate behaviors are. She says, "It can be a simple three second pause with the reflective question, 'Am I placing the oxygen mask on someone else before helping myself in this moment?'" In doing this, you're able to create a space where you allow yourself to choose your own needs first — or at least start acknowledging them more clearly.

One of the biggest — and I'd say hardest — practices that Paruolo suggests? Saying no. She says that acclimating to the discomfort of setting boundaries and saying that two-letter word can really help you form better, healthier habits. I know I could definitely do this more.

Finally, Paruolo wants eldest daughters to work on reframing their self-worth. She says, "Get curious about why it's an honor to be you (because it is!) and try to separate it from the caregiver or problem-solver role you have been continuously placed in."

Elina Fairytale

If there's anything to take away from my conversation and research, I'd let it be this: your experiences as an eldest daughter are valid, and you deserve to prioritize yourself! Whether 'eldest daughter syndrome' is in a diagnostic book or not, it's clear that therapists are taking these instances seriously, honoring their clients needs — so why shouldn't you honor your own?

I don't want to end this article hypocritically. I struggle with my own eldest daughter tendencies daily, but it's helpful to know that there are very real steps I can take to make my life easier, to exhale. And maybe one day, these lived experiences we all share will be codified in the DSM-5, allowing future eldest daughters to have a clearer playbook to live by — because you know we love achievable, clear goals. 😉

Looking for more mental health advice? Be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter so you never miss a thing!

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Collaboration Hacks Every Small Business Owner Should Know

Verizon
verizon

In our Take 5 series, sponsored by Verizon, we ask women in business about unexpected challenges, their inspirations, recent wins, and how the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program has helped propel their business forward. Here, we meet Therise Edwards, founder/CEO of Teshley Solutions, an education consultancy firm that helps students and families navigate the complexities of the education system K through 12.

What is an unexpected business challenge that you faced and how did you overcome it?

I wouldn't call myself a FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid) expert, but I ended up having to know a lot more about it than I ever anticipated. FAFSA is what administers Pell Grants, which is what a lot of colleges base their financial aid on. I knew about the application changes, and some were excellent, but they made a series of critical errors and a lot of parents were scrambling. It was not my intent to have this as my area of focus; it just became a necessity.

What's a recent small win for your business?

Recent small wins are my collaborations. I formed partnerships with one organization that focuses on students with special needs. I hosted a webinar with the executive director of that organization. I formed a partnership with members from an insurance company on planning and paying for college. That was my first corporate sponsorship. And I've got a series of events coming out because others actually reached out to me. One of them I met through another networking platform, but I got to that platform from one of the sessions that I did with Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program.

How did you start to collaborate with external partners?

Just changing my strategies and my approach, and just being more secure and more emphatic in making connections. It ends up being this continual cycle.

Is there a woman in business that you admire or that you look up to?

I have two. Leontyne Anglin, who runs a nonprofit called Beyond Expectations. She works with a small pool of students, but she just gives them enormous exposure and opportunity. She's brilliant with collaborating with individuals and businesses and really bringing the students what they need. And then the other on a bigger scale is Cate Luzio, founder and CEO of Luminary, who taught her Business Plan Bootcamp through the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. She is just a dynamo. She is just so supportive of women entrepreneurs. She's awesome.

How did the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program help propel your business forward?

All of the collaborations and partnerships with the exception of one all came from joining the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. I’ve taken all of the free classes and the one on projections and pricing, something every entrepreneur struggles with, was very helpful. There have been so many of them. Sometimes you're completely ignorant in a category so you take the class and it's like, okay, that's good to have. But then sometimes you sign up for it and it's like, oh, yeah, I did know 90 percent of that, but this other 10 percent is going to be very, very helpful.

Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Teshley Solutions.

Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces


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Meet The Top 3 Founders In Our Selfmade Pitch Competition!

When you launch a business, you have to know how to sell it: to customers, to potential investors, and to the people you bring on board. In the Selfmade Fall 2024 Pitch competition, we challenged our female entrepreneurs to sell us their big idea and compete to win over $10K in prizes to build and grow their business. The judging panel was made up of a group of inspiring women in business, including Emily Merrell, founder of Second Degree Society and Ready Set Coach; Niki Shamdasani, CEO of Sani Lifestyle Brand; and Joanne Oparu Ayebo Eriaku, business transformation strategist and founder of SOAR AI School of Readiness.

Selfmade is a unique, hands-on business membership for female founders. Our coaches support our mission to help make the dreams of female founders a reality. "Our mission is to even out the odds and offer a clear route to success for business owners who've been marginalized," Emily said during the competition.

Pitch day was filled with uplifting, celebratory moments as all members cheered on the 10 finalists. Winners were judged on creativity, inspiration, authenticity, uniqueness, and evidence of impact. The finalists were phenomenal in their pitches, but the judging panel had to make the tough decision of picking three women who really stood out. Here are the winners of the Selfmade Fall 2024 pitch competition, plus our amazing finalists below!

Meet the Selfmade PItch Winners

Hyacinth Tucker

1st Place Winner

Hyacinth Tucker | The Laundry Basket

A US Army veteran and wife, Hyacinth owns and operates The Laundry Basket, a laundry subscription service that provides expert, laundry-on-demand and dry cleaning services in Maryland, DC, Northern Virginia, Northeast Ohio, and Toronto Canada. The company is committed to sustainability, offering zero-waste practices in partnership with non-profits like Impact Zero. They are also paving the way for minorities and veterans to build careers and businesses through their workforce development program. Hyacinthhas a masters of business administration and is a mom of two. When she’s not running the show, she loves traveling, reading, and playing games with her family.

Monica Casillas

2nd Place Winner

Monica Casillas | Amor Movement

Founder Monica Casillas recognized that many young Latinas faced the same challenges she did in high school, experiencing the weight of generational traumas and their impact on growth and potential. Driven by her own experiences and determination, she set out to create a transformative movement with love as its guiding force. The mission behind Amor Movement is to ignite the passion and leadership potential in young Latinas in high school. The nonprofit is dedicated to equipping these future leaders with essential life skills, professional development, and civic engagement opportunities, empowering them to break barriers and create the lives of their dreams.

Yolanda McCray

3rd Place Winner

Yolanda McCray | Skyler M Style & Wellness

Yolanda's passion for clothing, accessories, and custom products inspired the creation of Skyler M Style & Wellness, named after her Cocker Spaniel who passed away from cancer in 2019. Skyler M Style & Wellness is an online boutique and pop-up shop in South Carolina that offers clothing, accessories, and custom gifts. They are also launching gift and subscription boxes that empower women to embrace their unique style while prioritizing wellness. Their carefully curated products offer a blend of fashion and self-care, solving the common struggle women face in balancing both.

Selfmade

Meet Our Other Amazing Finalists!

Thinking about becoming a member of Selfmade? Founders can join Selfmade for just $39 per month and have a chance to pitch your business at our next pitch competition! Here's how our Selfmade community is breaking barriers and connecting you with like-minded founders:
  • On-demand courses
  • Live coaching
  • 1:1 mentorship with leading industry experts
  • Opportunities for pitching your business (such as this pitch comp!)
  • Digital events
  • AND of course, our community of 4,000+ women founders, just like you!

Learn more about the Selfmade Founder Fund and join us!

Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter for more tips and news!

Header image via Meghan Lamle on Unsplash

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12 Fall Loungewear Sets For Comfy (Yet Chic) Couch Potato Energy

The only thing I want to do with Halloween right around the corner, doesn't involve trick-or-treating, haunted houses, or going to parties. It involves me, a bag of popcorn, a movie, my couch, and a deliciously cozy loungewear set that I can keep on all day. Truly the picture-perfect evening, IMO!

Since I've become a couch potato, loungewear sets appear to be my specialty — and I've accumulated a lot as of late. They're just the best for laying around your house, doing chores, working from home, or even running errands! Here are all my favorite loungewear sets to shop right now, so you can also be a comfy, CUTE couch potato this fall!

Amazon

MEROKEETY Women's 2 Piece Lounge Sets

Starting off with the stitched Amazon fave that you'll be obsessed with — I know I am! This would look absolutely adorable paired with some comfy Ugg slippers or Birkenstock clogs! That way, you can be comfy while you run your errands like popping in to Trader Joe's for some pumpkin snacks or going to Target for the most perfect autumnal candle.

Target

Auden Cozy Rib Pullover

Target is my happy place during the fall (and always — let's be real). I look forward to every October where I can grab my PSL from Starbucks,and browse the aisles for endless autumnal home decor that I surely don't need, but will definitely buy anyway. This set from Target is just another perfect example of that. It screams ultimate coziness, and its the perfect neutral shade of brown that I love in fall.

Amazon

Gap Cash-Soft Sweater

Gap has just been absolutely killing it lately — and this loungewear set is no different! It's made out of a cashmere-like material called "cash-soft" that Gap uses, and I'm not joking when I say this stuff is heavenly. It's truly so luxurious, and makes you feel like you're wrapped up in a blanket all day. Who doesn't love that? Plus, it's in one of our trending colors for fall!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Sunday Sweatsuit

There hasn't been a single piece from Abercrombie lately that I haven't added to my cart...everything they're doing is just so good. This chic loungewear set will give you the ideal elevated and sporty streetwear look that would be amazing styled with some trending sneakers and a slouchy tote bag!

Target

Auden Cozy Sweater Set

A good short, sweater set is one of my favorite types of loungewear — it lets me get cozy without feeling too hot if I decide to leave the heater on. This one is perfect for me as a California gal, because it never gets too cold here in the fall! Can't you just picture this one with some tall socks, Uggs, reading glasses, and a book or a scary movie? I want it now!

Amazon

PRETTYGARDEN Women's 2 Piece Outfits

Another Amazon set, because they're just so convenient, cute, and affordable! This one has the stitch detailing again that I just love so much. It really makes the set look more elevated and high-end. It will have everyone saying, "It's from Amazon?! No way!" Pair with some chunky sneakers and a messy bun!

Nordstrom

Dippin Daisys Polka Dot Short Set

Do NOT try to tell me polka dots are just for the summer, because you're wrong! Wrong I say! Brown polka dots are especially perfect because they're just so darn cute and autumnal. I love this set for just gallivanting around the house, maybe working from home, or making some yummy pumpkin-themed treats. Too cute!

Reformation

Reformation Kiera Wide Leg Sweat Suit

What better loungewear set for the month of October than this super cute burnt orange option? It's the perfect set to get you in the mood for spooky season, while looking positively adorable. I love the simplistic styling of this one with flats and maybe a sweater thrown over the shoulder for another cozy addition.

Nordstrom

LIVD Plus Size 3-Piece Set

We love extensive sizing, and this one offers so many additional sizing options. This plus size set is one of my favorites because of all the pieces it comes with. The set includes pants, a crop top, and a long duster cardigan! We love the sound of that! Make sure to grab this one in the amazing dark blue color.

DONNI

DONNI Pointelle Knit Set

DONNI is one of my favorite new brands that's come out in the past couple of years, not only because of how high quality their pieces are, but also how timeless they are. This pointelle knit set only further proves that point! I love how it can be worn casually, but also dressed up for a sweet, brunch look. Absolutely adore this set!

Nordstrom

Free People Malibu Sweater Set

If your style leans more on the bohemian side à la Vanessa Hudgens, then we have the perfect set for you! Look no further than this set from Free People. It will give you that bohemian chic look but with a cozy twist of course. BRB adding this one to my cart for fall immediately!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Lace and Pointelle Matching Set

Every gal needs a cozy set that makes her feel sexy and cute, and this one will definitely do that for you! It's made of pointelle which is so cute and comfy, but also has a bit of a sexy touch with the lace. You can grab this set for less than $100 at Abercrombie & Fitch!

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TikTok's 'Sleepmaxxing' Promises The Best Sleep Of Your Life — Does It Really Work?

If you've been struggling to get enough sleep, new TikTok viral wellness trend — 'sleepmaxxing' — wants to help. We'd give anything to stop dealing with insomnia, middle-of-the-night wakeup calls, and overall sleep anxiety. But does this trend work? And more importantly, are all these social media tips safe for you to try?

Dr. Ankur Bindal, MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM can tell you better than we can given his board certification in psychiatry, from American Board of Psychiatry & neurology. In addition to being the founder of the KAB Medical Group Inc. in San Diego, he's also a board certified sleep medicine practitioner who's seen firsthand how a lack of rest can affect our overall wellbeing.

TL;DR

  • Sleepmaxxing is a TikTok trend that's focused on setting yourself up for the best night of sleep possible.
  • While sleep masks and other tangible efforts to get comfortable in bed are great, you mainly want to make sure you're making healthy choices before bed like avoiding your phone.
  • Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
  • Eliminate too much light in your bedroom, avoid screen time, and establish consistent sleeping and waking times.

What is sleepmaxxing?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

If you're confused about sleepmaxxing, you're not alone — it's really not a straightforward term. It reminds us of what Will Ferrell said in Blades of Glory: "No one knows what it means but it's provocative...gets the people going." However, it actually has a meaning, and Dr. Bindal succinctly breaks it down. "Sleepmaxxing is the art and science of optimizing one's sleep and achieving the best possible quality & quantity of sleep by addressing every factor that can disrupt sleep," he says. This can look like using ear plugs, sleep masks, establishing specific sleep rituals, or anything else that is soothing and helpful.

Mainly, if you actually want to maximize your sleep, then you need to focus on what you do before you go to bed. Unbeknownst to us at times, our bedtime habits can affect the kind of rest we get (or not) at night. Dr. Bindal says, "Optimal Sleep hygiene methodologies including limiting light and sound exposure to using the latest sleep gadgets so sleepmaxxing aims to enhance sleep quality to the fullest." Unfortunately this means our habit of binge watching shows or scrolling mindlessly on TikTok at night aren't helping us.

I mean, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 35% of those surveyed have their sleep interrupted by lights inside of their homes. That's just lights, sans repetitious social media sounds and compelling television plots. When you add those on top of it all...let's just say we really are not doing ourselves any favors.

How does getting the proper amount of rest aid in our overall wellbeing?

Ahmed ツ

Now that you have a better idea of what sleepmaxxing is, we have to talk about why it matters. Dr. Bindal says getting the "proper amount of sleep" helps support" the following "various bodily functions" including, but not limited to:

  • Brain health — Enhanced cognition in domains of learning, concentration and consolidating memory by promoting phenomenon of hippocampal plasticity
  • Immune system function — A production of essential immune cells, better equipped to fighting off infections
  • Hormone regulation — A regulation of mood and reduced stress and physical repair that promotes muscle recovery, tissue repair, and overall physical development

He further explains that hormone regulation eventually leads to "improved mood, concentration, energy levels, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes."

Basically, the health benefits of slowing down and going to sleep outweigh what society often pushes — staying up later, longer and hustling at all hours of the day and night.

On average, how many hours of sleep are recommended?

Kaboompics.com

How much rest are you truly getting at night? If you ask America's Health Rankings, 35% of adults are getting less than seven hours of sleep. Dr. Bindal says that while adults should sleep between seven and nine hours every night, and there are health risks for those who don't. "Research corroborates that adults who sleep less than seven hours a night may have more health issues than those who do," he explains. Johns Hopkins Medicinefound that sleep deprivation can lead to a "36% increased risk for colorectal cancer," propensity for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and an overall lower immune system.

Saying "I'll sleep when I'm dead," may sound like a joke, but there's nothing funny about not letting your body get the rest it needs to function.

Should people with sleep difficulties try sleepmaxxing?

Marcus Aurelius

There are several reasons why your sleep could be negatively impacted right now. You may be dealing with insomnia due to stress, depression, or being a new parent. According to the American Psychological Association, 43% of people believe being stressed contributes to their lack of sleep. Furthermore, these same people have noticed their mood has shifted. The same reports shows that 45% of people who are getting less than the recommended hours of sleep have shared they feel on edge more than others while 52% have noticed they've been taking their frustrations out on those in their household.

Dr. Bindal agrees that sleepmaxxing can greatly benefit you if you're struggling because it can "enhance sleep quality to the fullest and emphasizes the importance of optimal sleep health."

How does sleepmaxxing benefit us?

Pavel Danilyuk

Clearly, you need a certain amount of sleep to function properly and achieve all those goals you've so intentionally set recently (hello, October Theory!). That's where sleepmaxxing can come in. Dr. Bindal says, "Improved sleep quality can lead to enhanced mental clarity and emotional stability, making it easier to navigate daily challenges."

If you're planning to change a few habits, you're going to need all the strength and focus you can access because change isn't always easy — even if you welcome it! So when you're implementing these new nighttime routines, be sure to stick to them. Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb, avoid the itch to scroll socials, and make sure you're able to properly relax. It can make all the difference in the world!

How can we incorporate sleepmaxxing in our bedtime routines?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

If you don't know how to make sleepmaxxing work for you, Dr. Bindal has great suggestions! "Key techniques include optimizing your sleep environment, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and managing stress and anxiety," he suggests.

One of the key ways you can make sure your room will promote a good night's sleep is by "adjusting the temperature" or "practicing a relaxation exercises before bed," he says. While meditation and mindfulness may be relaxation exercises that take practice over time, choosing the correct temperature is an easy way to set yourself up for success. Everyone's different, but he truly believes your room should be between 65 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit, too.

As Dr. Bindal mentioned before, eliminating sources of light can also aid in the rest you get. Personally, I can't sleep with the TV or lights on anymore because I just know it interrupts my sleep. My room is usually pitch black when it's time to go to sleep — to the point my three-year-old knows what it means when I turn everything off.

Besides these things, Dr. Bindal encourages you to maintain "consistent sleep and wake times" along with a "balanced diet and regular physical activity." Whether that means you start making your own Cava bowls inspired by the blue zone diet or doing workouts at home, they can aid in helping your body repair itself which then promotes the sleep you need.

Can we become too hyper-focused on our quality of sleep?

Kevin Malik

As with anything, too much of something can have adverse affects which rules out any benefits. Though sleepmaxxing can be a good thing for you, becoming fixated on it is likely going to make you even more stressed. "One of the primary concerns with sleepmaxxing is the development of orthosomnia, a condition caused by an obsession with tracking sleep metrics, with devices or apps, which increases anxiety and can further disrupt sleep, called paradoxical insomnia," Dr. Bindal warns.

If you become too obsessed with tracking every little thing, he says all this will do is "disrupt sleep cycles and limit the efficacy of insomnia treatments." But, he has an idea of what you can do to lessen the chance that'll happen. "Instead of over-analyzing how much sleep you’re getting, it’s important to understand that insomnia is a common and treatable condition, by incorporating healthy sleep hygiene routines organically and focusing on addressing the root causes of insomnia symptoms," he shares.

How can we optimize our sleep without getting sucked into wellness trends?

Niels from Slaapwijsheid.nl

Whether you want to call it sleepmaxxing or not, all you have to do is normalize the tips Dr. Bindal mentioned above. "Some of the ways can include established a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, managing light exposure, and limiting screen time before you want to go to sleep," he reiterates. Social media isn't going anywhere so don't let your FOMO convince you that potential scandals or tutorials are more important than getting seven to nine hours of sleep.

Also, don't forget to "maintain a comfortable sleep environment" while being aware of your "caffeine and alcohol intake throughout the day," Dr. Bindal points out. Something tells us that we're going to have to be intentional about breaking up with our daily coffee runs and desires to unwind with a nice glass of wine. But if it means we'll sleep better, we'll add that to our list of habits to change!

Need an extra dose of positivity in your life? We have even more lifestyle tips to share to help you end the year on a healthy and wholesome note!

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