Turn Your Windowless Office into a Creative Haven

When it comes to work spaces, you can’t always get what you want, but you can learn to love what you get. Follow me here: You walk into day one of your dream job. The role is just right, you negotiated a baller salary, your boss seems pretty cool. Then, you’re escorted to your desk. It’s in an oversized closet you’re sharing with three other people. It’s all part of a plan to integrate teams to make you all more collaborative. It’s a good thing. It can be a good thing. But… you’re in a closet, and there are no windows. There are just four people in a tiny, bland space.

As companies move to create more fluid workflows and co-op environments, sometimes it leads to awesome headquarters and fab perks (unlimited vacation, anyone?). Other times it can lead to some less-than-ideal spots. Luckily, we know how to do a lot with a little. Think about your office like your home (you spend enough time there!), and invest in a few updates to design a space where you feel inspired to produce your best work and motivated to push through that weekday slump. Your psyche — and your boss — will thank you for it!

1. Update the lighting. Fluorescent lighting is kind of a drag, and even more so when it’s not balanced by bright, natural sunshine. Turn off the overhead lighting and plug in a few lamps — one or two tall styles to illuminate the whole room (use halogen bulbs that mimic natural rays) and a few more table lamps next to everyone’s computer. (via ABC’s of Life)

2. Decorate like it’s home. Lay down a couple of layered rugs in the center of the room to make it look pulled together. Perk up ugly black chairs with a throw (which can also double as a wrap on cold days) and a small pillow (lumbar support!). Buy flowers that last and don’t need too much attention like hydrangeas (they’re lovely dry too) or succulents to bring a piece of outside in. Have any extra table toppers and accents hanging around the house? Pepper in little bowls, bookends, and trays to make the decor look intentional, but not fussy. Hang at least one piece of art — preferably one with a tropical vibe that can mentally whisk you away on those days when the clock seems stuck at 3pm. It’s easier and more affordable than ever to find statement pieces that match your style and pocketbook; sites such as Minted, Artfully Walls, and Denys Designs let you create custom work for less than $100. Use the opportunity to bond with your officemates, and spend a lunch break looking for a piece you all love. (via Vandi Fair)

3. Create more space. There is nothing worse than a messy desk. Especially when there are a bunch of you in one space. Everyone’s stuff piles up, and soon you feel like you’re stuck in a storage closet. De-pre-ssing! Just like with small apartments, you have to work a little magic to create solutions that work for you. Maybe it’s installing three sets of shelves above everyone’s desk: one for file holders and trays to stash current and incoming to-dos; another for books, magazines, and a few decorative accents; and a top row where you keep boxes and other things you’ll need to access in the near future. Install some cute hooks along the back of the door so people can hang their coats and umbrellas out of the way. And consolidate things that can be shared, like cleaning supplies, into one community drawer. Organization is key here! (via The Crafted Life)

4. Make it personal. This one is a no-brainer: You feel happiest when you’re surrounded by things that inspire you. Pin up pictures of family and puppies, postcards, aspirational magazine clippings — anything that makes you smile. As far as office supplies go, since you have to see them and use them every day, you might as well get pretty things. Invest in a few packs of colorful folders, fancy pens, chic file holders, and cool things like lucite staples and patterned tape dispensers (Poppin and MochiThings are great resources). These small extras will also make boring, administrative tasks much more appealing. Win-win! (via Kelsey Tucker / Emily Henderson)

5. Tap into aromatherapy.Scent has a big effect on the brain. It’s why no matter how long you’ve been split up, the smell of a certain cologne will always bring back memories of your high school boyfriend! Employ a more productive version of the same idea by installing an oil diffuser that can be outfitted with different scents, depending on the time of day and kind of support you need. Peppermint boosts alertness, lavender soothes stress, citrus wakes you up, and jasmine oil can reduce pre-meeting jitters. Unlike many candles, modern diffusers aren’t overpowering, so the smell won’t drive any of your colleagues nuts.

How do you decorate your work space? Tweet us @BritandCo!

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

Kicking off the new year with a new intention is a great way to set your mind to reaching your life goals. Jan. 1 is a classic marker for changing old habits, refreshing your outlook, going for what you really want, and resetting your health and wellness routines and there's so much good in all of that. But where to start?

This list will help you uncover new year resolution ideas, big and small, that fit into your life goals. Whether you're looking to advance your career, build new relationships or nurture existing ones, act on your values, or simply start healthier habits, this list of 70 new year resolution ideas will spark your creativity and inspire you to get started on something fulfilling.

We dug into our archives for new year resolution ideas for a healthier, happier, more productive you. Sticking to a resolution for 365 days can be tricky though so here's some advice:

  • Create a realistic plan. Focus on key goals that are most important to you. Sure, we might want to do most of the things on this list but what do you really want to accomplish in 2024? Be specific and make a clear plan on how you'll get there.
  • Break up your goal in small steps. If something feels too overwhelming, consider breaking it into smaller tasks that you can more easily accomplish.
  • Stay accountable. Give yourself monthly goals and let friends know what you're trying to do so they can cheer you on and provide support.
  • Track your progress. Use a planner, notebook, or app to track your progress for more motivation.
  • Stay positive. You can achieve anything with a positive mindset. But sometimes life throws us some curveballs. If you slip, move on and keep going. You can do this!
  • Reward yourself. Treat yourself to small rewards at the end of each month once you've accomplished something toward your end goal.
  • Visualize success. Visualizing what you want out of your resolution will help you stay committed and motivated along the way.
Now that you know how to stick your new year resolutions, take a look at our list of 70 new year resolution ideas for inspiration going into 2024. Happy new year to you!

Host Regular Friend Dinners

Photo by fauxels

Commit to making a monthly or bi-monthly dinner date with the friends you love most. Life can get in the way, but these are the memories you'll always value in life. Take turns hosting and turn it into a dinner club. Here are quick and easy dinner ideas to try out throughout the year!

Start Journaling Like Emma Watson

Photo: British Vogue/YouTube

Journaling can help you put things into perspective and get more in touch with your emotions. It can also help you sleep better by putting your thoughts on paper first! In British Vogue's In The Bag, Emma Watson explains how important journaling has become in her life. Here's what Emma has to say about her journaling practice.

Create An Inspiring Vision Board

Photo by cottonbro studio

Vision boards are one of the most effective tools that you can use to build your business, nurture your romantic life, and reach your creative goals. The process can bring clarity to your thinking, focus to your plans, and can leave you with a curated visual + tangible reminder of the life you want to build. Here's how to get started to create your own vision board for 2024.

Eat Breakfast In Bed More Often

Photo by Ngakan eka

We're so quick to look at our phones and jump out of bed and hit our laptops. Rather than make breakfast in bed a once-a-year type of activity, turn it into a common practice. You'll connect better with your partner and yourself. Here are easy breakfast recipes to eat in bed throughout 2024.

Create A Morning Ritual

Photo by Blue Bird

A morning ritual that doesn't involve working the minute you wake up can clear your mind, calm your nervous system, and prepare you mentally and physically for the day. Some morning ritual ideas: a skincare routine, a bike ride, a nature walk, journaling, drinking tea, reading a book, and more. Decide what would help you start your day on the best foot.

Become A Plant Lady

Photo by Blue Bird

Plants can clean the air you breathe, boost your mood, and increase your creativity. Embrace plants in your decor and bring the outdoors in! Make it a resolution to learn more about how to care for them.

Take A Yoga Challenge

Try our at-home yoga challenge or join a new studio, many of which have challenges for new members at a discount. Yoga can help improve digestion, mood, stress levels, and more.

Give Daily Compliments

Photo by Guilherme Almeida

Licensed psychologist Dr. Lauren Hazzouri says you can actually learn more about yourself and create more positivity around you by taking notes about what you see in others. Here are her thoughts on why heartfelt praise is so powerful and five super solid sentiments you can aim to share every day.

Delegate The Things You Don't Want To Do

Photo by Polina Zimmerman

Uncover the things that are taking up your time that you don't want to do and get support. Maybe it's cleaning your apartment or tasks at work that can be automated or maybe it's getting your laundry delivered. Delegate the tasks you don't love so you can focus your time on the things you do love.

Get Organized, One Day At A Time

Photo: Shutterstock

Overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Dedicate each month to a new decluttering project. Bedroom Closets January, anyone? Donate or sell what you don't use and build an organizing system you can stick to. Here's more pro advice for decluttering your space.

Open Your Mind To New Stories

Want to read more books? Set out a plan to read the books you missed in 2023 and plan for the books you want to read in 2024, depending on your schedule. Maybe it's a book a month that you share with others, near and far?

Train For An Organized Run

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Want to get back on a running schedule? This is a great goal to try if you want to achieve a 5K, 10K, or even a marathon. New to running? Check out our running tips for learning to love it.

Make New Friends

Photo by ELEVATE

Is there a new acquaintance you want to know better? Or feeling like you're missing out on a community? Maybe you've just moved to a new city. Nurture new friendships in 2024 with these friendship tips.

Reconnect With Old Ones

Photo: Brit + Co

Reach out to old friends this year and reconnect in a more meaningful way with these thought-provoking questions to get to know your friends better. Make it a resolution to reach out to one old friend a month!

Plan Regular Dates With Your S.O.

Photo by Ron Lach

Connect with your partner one-on-one with these date night ideas for the whole year.

Flirt With Confidence

Photo by Katerina Holmes

Single? No problem. Try online or IRL dating but before you do learn to flirt with confidence. Practice makes perfect!

Judge Less, Communicate Better 

Learn to communicate better by communicating to understand versus judge. We can all use better communication skills these days with people inside and outside our bubble.

Eat Healthy Most Of The Time

Photo by Akshata Bablad

Try Whole30 this January to uncover any allergies or an intermittent fasting schedule to lighten your load (and sleep better!). Whatever you do, do in moderation (indulging once in a while is OK!) and pick up healthy habits that you can sustain throughout the year.

Find A Job That Appreciates You

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Feeling burnout or stuck in a job rut? Use your MBTI to find your next career move, and then start finding the job you want!

Become Better Friends With Your Siblings

Photo:Thirdman

Become better friends with your siblings by having a conversation that runs deep, no matter what difficult things you've faced in the past.

Start An Exercise Routine You Love

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Exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Find a sport or activity that gives you the workout you need while also boosting your mood, expanding your friendship circle, and bringing you joy every day.

Eat More Veggies With Better Cooking Skills

Here are 10 sneaky ways to get more veggies in your diet. Remember, they should make up half your plate! Learn how to cook vegetables more flavorfully too! Salads for breakfast, perhaps?

Eat Less Meat For You And The Planet

Beef production accounts for most of the greenhouse gas emissions of the entire food production industry, and leads to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, significant contributors to climate change. Vegetarian diets tend to have fewer calories and less fat too, and vegetarians have a lower risk of heart disease so you'll do good by you and the planet!

Make Drinking Water More Fun

Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev

Stay hydrated with more water in your 2024, whether you flavoring it a la TikTok, shopping the latest water bottles for on-the-go hydrating, or simply cutting back on soda and sugary drinks. All good things!

Do The Work To Get More Sleep

Photo: Anna Nekrashevich

Make an effort to ditch the devices before bedtime, design a bedroom ideal for sleep, and follow these tips to fall asleep faster. Sleep with a partner? Try the Scandinavian sleep method for better co-sleeping.

Improve Your Gut Health

Photo: Ella Olsson

Try an anti-inflammatory diet if you have a hard time getting rid of belly bulge or have health issues related to gut health. You'll feel and look better through 2024 and beyond!

Take Care Of Your Sexual Health

Photo:Bellesa Boutique.

Here's a reminder that you need to take care of your sexual health to ensure a healthy overall wellbeing. Sexual health includes self-esteem, personal attractiveness, competence, as well as freedom from sexual dysfunction, sexually transmitted diseases, and sexual assault/coercion. It goes beyond testing for STIs and fertility and rather encompasses just as many mental components as physical ones.

Quit Smoking

Photo by Maria Orlova

Add as much as a decade to your life and avoid a slew of health problems by quitting your smoking habit, even if it's just socially. Make a point of asking your doctor the best plan for you. We know this is a tough one -- and totally not unique -- but your health matters and this is a big one to reach your fullest potential!

Cook More At Home

Photo by Sarah Chai

You'll save money and eat healthier by reducing your restaurant and takeout budget. You may also find that you enjoy cooking! Check out Brit + Co's Cooking Classes, plus try our delicious recipes!

Learn A New Language

Photo by Leeloo Thefirst

Download Duolingo, Babbel, Rosetta Stone or take a language course in person at a community college or community center. You might even want to find a local person who speaks the language you want to learn and meet for coffee once a week for IRL practice!

Manage Your Time Better

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

Start the new year with a new planner and these time management tips, like time blocking.

Improve Your Public Speaking Skills

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Get over your fear of public speaking with these public speaking tips. Find ways to practice your new skills at work, at networking events, even weddings!

Volunteer For A Cause You Care About

Photo by Liza Summer

Build connections, improve your resume, even volunteer to travel to do good work for your community and help those in need.

Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Here are 7 ways to get out of debt, including credit card debt, this year.

Learn How To Invest

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Women are still not investing at the rate that men are. Let's close the investing gap for good. Here's our ultimate beginner's guide to investing in the stock market. Try our free Investing 101 course and check out Nicole Lapin's The Money School, where our favorite finance pro shows you how to make your money grow and we mean really grow. You'll learn things like: how to create a budget, how to save for big life goals, how to buy a house and car, how to invest in the stock market and retirement accounts. This is truly the masterclass for all things money!

Launch A Side Hustle Or A Business

We're all about following your passion at Brit + Co and if you've had an idea for starting your own biz now is the time to take that first step. First, get over your fear of failure with these seven tips, then write out your business plan. Need a little motivation? Check out Brit + Co's Selfmade online business course, where you'll meet inspiring entrepreneurs who will help you get to the next level (all while Brit and her "Co" cheer you on!).

Plant A Garden

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Gardening has mood-boosting benefits and is a great way to clear your head and get creative. Given it may be snowing outside early in the year you can try an indoor herb garden for starters and come spring plan a bed or two outside for your favorite fruits and veggies.

Take A Creative Class

Learning something new about yourself or the world can be as easy as listening to a podcast, which is the whole premise for our Teach Me Something New podcast. Listen in on our chat with experts on meditation, cooking, mental health and more during your next drive or jog. Get creative too with more than 120 Brit + Co creative classes on everything from cake decorating to coding.

Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Photo: RDNE Stock

New Year's resolutions don't have to be full of Don'ts. Brit + Co Founder and CEO Brit Morin started her #GiveItAWeek challenges as a way to break out of her comfort zone and try something new every week of the year vs. one "Don't" all year long. Try dance lessons, take an illustrating class, or change up your running routine to make it more FUN. Good news is a new hobby has restorative benefits for your mental health too.

Start Saving For A Rainy Day

Make 2024 the year to get your finances in order, from setting yourself up on a budget-minded money date to knowing the milestones you should hit by 35.

Break Out Of Your Cooking Rut

Bored by the same meals you've been cooking at home since spring 2020? We got you. Whether you want to cut down on sugar with our Whole30 recipes, use your new Instant Pot to make easy weeknight meals, or save money and eat healthy we've got loads of recipes to help you reach your food goals. Not confident in your cooking skills? Pick up some pro cooking tips from our pal Rachael Ray.

Drink Less Booze

Treating yourself to a Dry January might seem like a good idea right about now and it can mean better sleep, a cleaner gut and a host of other health benefits. You'll save money too and probably boost your productivity like Brit + Co'er Lindsey Graham-Jones experienced when she took a Dry July and B+C editor Meredith Holser tried Sober October. Not sure you can swing it? Try these mocktail recipes that are just as tasty sans the hard stuff.

Hack Your Workout Goals

Research by The Myers-Briggs Company shows that our MBTI personality type preferences affect how we like to exercise and who (if anyone) we like to exercise with. Here’s how knowing where you fit on each of the four dimensions of the MBTI assessment can help you reach your workout goals. Here's our workout playlist too!

Lighten Your Social Media Load

You don't have to go cold turkey like quitting Instagram for a month but cutting back on your online use by even 50 percent can have measurable benefits like better sleep, improved mental health, more QT with the ones you love and more time to focus on your goals, hobbies and creative pursuits (vs. scrolling through the pursuits of others!). Here are pro tips for limiting social media this year.

Write Thank You Notes

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Send a little love to the people who make big and small differences in your year with old-school thank you or gratitude notes. You'll pay positive vibes forward and score greater feelings of happiness and (some studies show) lower levels of depression. Here are more health benefits worth giving this resolution a try.

Start A Spa Budget

Finding the time for self-care can be tough as work and life commitments start to pile on, which is why scheduling a regularly sesh is so needed. Put aside money each month for a regular spa day, or if money is tight try a solo hike or walk to recharge, take 10 minutes a day to treat yourself to meditation, online yoga, an article read, a mini massage or an impromptu call to a long-distance friend or family member.

Advance Your Career

Photo: Antoni Shkraba

Commit to taking a training or certification class to build your skills and advance your career.

Network Better

Photo by Mizuno K

Here's advice for how to network when you're not comfortable networking.

Become A Mentor or Mentee

Photo by Christina Morillo

Have a skill or experience you can share? Find a mentorship program near you to connect with people in your industry. Need a mentor to coach you through your career? Check out these mentor tips or try Selfmade, our business and coaching course for new entrepreneurs.

Seek Out New Challenges At Work

Photo by RF._.studio

In a bit of a career rut? Rather than find a new job, look for new opportunities at work to build new skills, broaden your connections, and feel inspired. It may lead to a new role and promotion too!

Log Off More Often

Photo by Alex Gállego

Create better balance in 2024 by logging off and finding time to do things you love, like creating, reading, and socializing IRL.

Learn To Say No

Stop being a people pleaser and instead be a YOU pleaser by establishing better boundaries without feeling guilty.

Become A Minimalist

Photo: Alexi Almond

Learn how to build a minimalist wardrobe that isn't boring and live a minimalist lifestyle with these minimalist tips.

Reduce Digital Clutter

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

This is a good resolution to break into smaller tasks. Make a plan to reduce your digital clutter by clearing work and personal inboxes, reducing your social media follows and accounts, and organizing photos and videos while backing up your digital files.

Don't Procrastinate On Important Things

Photo by Antoni Shkraba

Procrastination can be your creative superpower but it can also keep you from doing the things you want most in life. Here are tip to stop the procrastination that holds you back.

Start A Gratitude Jar

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Every day in 2024 write down the good things that happened that day and put it in a jar. At the end of the year, read all the good things that happened to you! This is a great activity to do with kids.

Relax More

Photo by Rachel Claire

Is your stress response cycle In overdrive? These 7 stress response tips can help.

Start Therapy

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch

Finding the mental healthcare that fits all your needs can be very overwhelming. The internet is filled with self-proclaimed “mental health experts” and more information on mental health than someone ever could read in a lifetime, so here we help you narrow it down to the truly important deets. After all, if you believe that you could benefit from mental health services, you deserve the best information possible.

Reduce Your Plastic Consumption

Photo by Lisa Fotios

Humans produce more than 350 million metric tons of plastic waste per year, and that number is expected to triple by 2060 if we don't make policy changes. To get a head start, here are the coolest ways to reduce your plastic consumption.

Shop Local 

Photo by Amina Filkins

Give your community the boost it needs (and reduce your dependency on Amazon) by shopping local. You'll get out in the neighborhood, meet new people, and feel good knowing your local businesses have your support.

Learn A New Craft

Photo: Cottonbro Studio

Working with your hands is a great mental workout and inspires your creativity. Learn to sew, knit, make pottery or more at a local community center or via online classes.

Create An At-Home Workout

If working out in the middle of winter seems daunting, make an effort to create a little gym space at home. You'll save money on gym memberships and get in the routine of fitness in the comfort of your own home. Check out how IKEA can help with a new workout collection.

Go Off The Beaten Path

Photo by Nina Uhlikova

Travel to some of the happiest cities in the world and find your happy place by taking the path less taken.

Give To A Farm Sanctuary

Photo by Leah Kelley

Farm sanctuaries protect farm animals who have been injured and rescued from factory farms. Share your time by volunteering or adopt a pet!

Visit Our National Parks

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Visit as many of the 63 national parks in the United States. Here are 11 national parks that are out of this world.

Try Community Theatre

Build connections, create community, and be creative by becoming part of a theatre program. Here are 5 things that an acting class taught me that I use every day.

Write A Book

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Have a book idea in your head but just not sure where to start? Try our tips for writing a book you'd actually want to read.

Give More Hugs

Photo by RDNE Stock

According to science, a 20-second hug helps reduce stress, relieves your blood pressure, and nurtures a healthy heart.

Focus On The Positive

A healthy mindset will help you achieve any goal, any year. Start with these 40 positive affirmations to boost your mood.

Treat Yourself

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev

You went a month, a year, a lifetime reaching a goal you set out to do, not sure whether or not you will get there. But you did it. Treat yourself to the little things, a candlit bath, a massage, a pedicure, anything that brings you calm and joy and makes life more fulfilling to you.

You got this. Try putting pen to paper to hold yourself accountable and even try manifesting your goals to get what you want this year and beyond.

What is your 2024 resolution? Share with us @BritandCo, and sign up for our weekend scroll for more inspiration!

Lead image: Guilherme Almeida

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Oprah Winfrey's book club is known for having exquisite reading picks, and the book she's chosen for the first month of 2025 is no different. The first week of January has already been challenging to say the least, ushering in loss and despair for some of us. While it's not a total fix, self-improvementbooks can help us get more in tune with ourselves during times like this — and Oprah Winfrey's January book club pick, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle, is perfect for that.

We think it's an excellent choice since more of us are looking for ways to tap into our inner humanity so we can see a little more patience and empathy.

Here's all the details about Oprah Winfrey's book club pick for January, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose.

Harpo, Inc / Chris Frawley

In collaboration with Starbucks, Oprah Winfrey shared her January pick, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on The Oprah Podcast January 7. She and Eckhart Tolle shared a conversation about the concepts in his book while onstage at the Starbucks Reserve Empire State Building. A live audience was in attendance and shared a few laughs as the renowned host and author talked about how we can transform our lives.

You can watch the full podcast episode here!

Amazon

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle

Eckhart Tolle is expounding on his teachings in The Power of Now to help us finally stop making "ego-based" decisions. He feels it's time for us to live a life that's not governed by flighty definitions of happiness while also sharing ways we don't have to experience as much as mental or emotional pain.

In a world that feels more divided than ever over every little thing, we think it's a great read for those who are anxious to see a change. As this book proves, the work starts within ourselves.

Looking for more to read? Add Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick to your TBR list next!

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

In our series Selfmade U, we’ll tackle the most common questions and pain points that come up for business owners with tips and tricks from Selfmade, a virtual business coaching program, founded by Brit + Co founder Brit Morin and sponsored by Office Depot OfficeMax. We’ll hear from Selfmade members and business coaches on what it takes to run a successful business and make it as an entrepreneur.

Constant juggling of creative tasks, business decisions, and operational responsibilities can lead to stress, burnout, and a hit to your productivity. That’s why a daily mindfulness practice for entrepreneurs can not only be good for your well-being, it can also impact your business growth.

“To recharge and relax, I find solace in simple activities like walking to my office. I also have a weekly meditation session via Zoom with a friend who recently adopted a baby. It helps me find balance and unwind,” says Maria Londono, founder of Disrupt3rs, an app that helps creators learn the language of business in a fun and interactive way. “I also have a weekly ballroom salsa date with my husband, Francisco. These moments make a significant difference”


It’s hard to be fully present when managing and growing your business is always on your mind. But taking the time to clear your thoughts and rest your mind has its advantages to your business. You can train your mind to be more focused, resilient and better equipped to handle the challenges of a small business owner.

“Receiving the Office Depot OfficeMax scholarship to Selfmade has been a game changer for my business,” says Maria. “The most rewarding aspect of the program was feeling supported and connecting with like-minded women entrepreneurs. Having conversations with people who understand my struggles and joys as a builder makes a tremendous difference.”

Here are five ways a mindfulness practice can help you build connection, boost your creativity, and grow your business:

Reduce stress. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, have shown to reduce stress and increase the feeling of relaxation. “I always prioritize my meditation practice,” says Maria. “Finding a balance is an ongoing effort, and though it’s not perfect, it’s definitely worth it.”

Make better decisions. When founders are more mindful, they become more attuned to their thoughts and emotions, helping them recognize when they’re reacting impulsively. Feeling clear-headed, calm, and ready to face the day can help you consider multiple perspectives, take the time to evaluate risks, and make strategic decisions for the long term vs. knee-jerk reactions that can cloud your judgment and affect the long-term success of your business.

Nurture your creativity. Your best ideas come from giving yourself the space to explore new ideas without the pressure to go, go, go all the time. Tap into your creativity by taking a midday walk, doing yoga, or just closing your eyes. “I nurture my creativity by hanging out with my daughter. We read, dance, and play together,” says Maria. Tapping into your innate creativity can lead to innovative solutions, product improvements, and fresh approaches to how you run your business.

Increase focus and productivity. A daily mindfulness practice can train your mind to stay focused on the task at hand rather than getting distracted by everything on your to-do list. This healthy focus time can lead to better productivity too, allowing you to accomplish more in less time and make more efficient use of your resources.

Improve communication and relationships. Being a great communicator is key to running a successful business. You may have employees, partners, or clients you need to communicate with clearly and calmly on a daily basis. “I have a deep appreciation for my co-founder,” says Maria. “We keep each other balanced and don’t mind talking shop during our downtime.”

Maria was one of 10 Selfmade members to enter the Selfmade pitch competition in her cohort. “Pitching our business through Selfmade has taught us the importance of introducing our target client and bringing her to life,” says Maria. “This helps people connect with her pain points and understand the potential solutions we offer.”

As a result, Maria earned an Office Depot OfficeMax gift card to help support her business. “Office Depot has been instrumental in helping us grow our business. From laptops to Post-Its for ideation to printers, we rely on their products and services to meet our needs.”

To learn more about growing your business, sign up for the !

Illustrated by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces

Building a mindfulness practice that works for you can help you feel good and manage your business better. Let Office Depot OfficeMax help you organize & save time with a suite of business services & solutions, like print & copy services. Accomplish more with Office Depot so you can focus on life’s important moments, like seeing your big idea come to life.

Now widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most optimistic and compassionate figures due to her recent career shift as a talk show host, Drew Barrymore is also a veteran actress who’s made her mark behind the camera. Above all else, she’s truly iconic, at just 49 years young, she’s achieved more than most do in a lifetime.

From being catapulted to global fame at the age of 4 to becoming one of the most recognizable movie stars in the world, Barrymore has had a career that’s nothing short of extraordinary. It’s safe to say Barrymore has solidified her spot in Hollywood and continues to be an influential figure. Now for the fun part — with a lengthy resume chalk full of incredible films, you may be wondering where to start.

So, to make it easier, here’s a list of the Drew Barrymore movies everyone should see in their lifetime.

1. E.T.

Universal Pictures

This remains one of Barrymore’s most iconic roles, and at 6 years old no less. Stephen Spielberg’s E.T. continues to be regarded as one of the greatest films ever made since its release in 1982, and comes in with a 7.9 out of 10 on IMDb and a whopping 99 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s no wonder why as the film beautifully portrays two children befriending an alien and keeping his existence a secret to protect him. If you want to cry, this is a must-see. If you don’t, well, you still have to watch this, just have the tissues ready. Not to mention, 6-year-old Drew Barrymore is so cute in this.

2. ​Ever After

20th Century Fox

A retelling of the fairytale Cinderella with Drew Barrymore? Say less. There have been a handful of Cinderella adaptations, to say the least, but this may be one of the best, and Barrymore is to thank for that. Her effervescent innocence shines through in this role and she offers a wit and independence that was not seen in preceding versions – Barrymore’s Cinderella is resourceful and isn’t the archetypal damsel in distress, which is why this is a refreshing must-watch. Plus, its 7.1 out of 10 score on IMDb and 91 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. Scream

Dimension Films/Paramount

Yes, I know Barrymore is only in Scream for all of 10 minutes, but in my humble opinion, it may be the best 10 minutes of the film. Her incredible performance and blood-curdling scream open the film, and thrust you into the most prolific horror film franchise of our time. So yeah, I think this deserves a spot on the list. And even though it's rated 7.4 out of 10 on IMDb and 77 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, it's arguably one of Barrymore's most iconic moments ever.

4. Donnie Darko

Newmarket Films

This thought-provoking, and might I add haunting, film has still been top of mind for me since my first watch. While Barrymore’s screen time is certainly limited in Donnie Darko, there’s no questioning the impact her role and character offered the film. Her character, high-school teacher Karen Pomeroy, is a relatable anchor in a film that is otherwise unsettling. And that, friends, should be enough reasoning to get you to watch this movie. Plus its 8 out of 10 on IMDb and 87 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

5. Whip It

Searchlight Pictures

It’s only fitting Whip It follows a performance like Ever After – two very different settings, yet two very similar roles for Barrymore in that she plays a strong, independent woman in both. Even more so, Barrymore not only starred and directed this film, she co-wrote the screenplay as well. What can’t she do?! I love this movie (about a roller derby league) so much that it ~magically~ appears on my TV screen every year. It comes in with a 6.9 out of 10 IMDb rating and a 86 percent RT rating.

6. ​Confessions Of A Dangerous Mind

Miramax

If anyone ever needed proof that Barrymore has range — I don’t know who would, but that’s beside the point — I’d show them George Clooney’s directorial debut Confessions Of A Dangerous Mind. Barrymore plays a supporting role that seemingly morphs into one of her most memorable as she plays the typical supporting woman alongside Sam Rockwell’s game show host & undercover assassin. Because what man can simply exist without a woman behind him? The movie has a 7 out of 10 IMDb rating and a 79 percent Rotten Tomatoes score.

7. ​The Wedding Singer

New Line Cinema

I didn’t mean to intentionally put two Adam Sandler movies on this list, but here we are. What can I say? The Barrymore and Sandler duo cannot be stopped! It’s another early 2000s film (that decade has the best rom-coms, and I won’t debate this fact), where Barrymore and Sandler slowly fall in love…despite the fact she’s engaged to someone else. What’s not to love? The movie has a 6.9 on IMDb and 72 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

8. ​Never Been Kissed

20th Century Pictures

If She’s All That and Mean Girls had a movie child together, (with maybe a hint of step-parenting from 21 Jump Street) it would be Never Been Kissed. This movie (which as a 6 out of 10 on IMDb and only 55 percent on RT) is quintessential early 20's Barrymore entering her rom-com phase, and for that, I’m forever thankful. Barrymore stars as an undercover journalist who breaks into the most popular clique at school…and then falls for her English teacher.

9. ​Charlie's Angels

Columbia Pictures

I remember my first time watching Charlie’s Angels – it’s one of those films everyone’s dad calls a classic – and after watching it, I thought ‘dang, rightfully so.’ Beneath all of the visible hairspray, sexy innuendos, and revealing outfits, this film is really about strong female relationships and camaraderie. If anything, it’s a fun time filled with action and drama, and, I hate to admit it, it’s a classic (despite the fact it has a 5.6 out of 10 IMDb rating and a 68 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Don't even get me started on the 45 percent audience score!).

10. 50 First Dates

Columbia Pictures

It’s no secret that Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler have insane screen chemistry, and this movie proves it. 50 First Dates is a witty romance that Barrymore shines in. She portrays a woman who has amnesia after an accident, meaning she basically relives the same day over and over. Her portrayal is truly unforgettable and she commands the screen — sorry Adam. The movie scored a 6.8 out of 10 on IMDb but somehow only got a 45 percent on Rotten Tomatoes!

What's your favorite Drew Barrymore movie? Did we leave anything off the list? Let us know in the comments and read up on A Definitive Ranking Of Emma Stone's Best Movies for more!

To All The Boys will always be a comfort movie, and when Netflix announced we were getting a spinoff about our favorite little sister Kitty Song Covey (who's now a teenage matchmaker), I was over the moon! Well, fans of XO, Kitty are in for a treat because season 2 drops on January 16 — and it's one of our most-anticipated January TV shows. Not only are we reuniting with one of our favorite Coveys, but another cast member from the movie cast is making an appearance too!

Here's everything we know about XO, Kitty season 2.

Who's joining the cast this season?

Netflix

XO, Kitty season 2 stars Anna Cathcart, Audrey Huynh, Sasha Bhasin, Joshua Lee, Minyeong Choi, Gia Kim, Sang Heon Lee, Anthony Keyvan, Peter Thurnwald, and Regan Aliyah.

And the best news of all is that Noah Centineo is returning as Peter Kavinsky!! This was not on my 2025 bingo card and I'm THRILLED.

What is XO Kitty season 2 about?

Netflix

Kitty's back for her second semester at KISS, and she's hoping to scale things way back. What can we say? She's in her casual dating era! That is, until a letter from her mom's past sends her on a whole new journey. "There are so many new people now,” Anna Cathcart told Tudum. “To see her world expand is a huge, huge difference and will be a really fun thing to follow.”

It sounds like XO Kitty season 2 will be a continuation of that coming of age!

Where can I watch XO, Kitty season 2?

Netflix

XO, Kitty season 2 hits Netflix January 16, 2025.

What are you excited to see in XO, Kitty season 2? Let us know in the comments and follow us on Facebook for even more pop culture news! Don't forget to check out this year's January Movies too.

This post has been updated.